Residents and traders along the Jinja-Kampala highway in Kigombya, Mukono Central Division, are up in arms over prolonged road construction delays, which they say have crippled businesses and caused severe disruptions. The ongoing works, contracted to a Chinese company, have left the road in a near-impassable state for months, with locals accusing the contractors of abandoning the site without completing the job.
Economic Toll on Businesses
The dusty, pothole-ridden stretch has made transportation difficult, forcing some businesses to shut down. Affected enterprises include clothing shops, food vendors, salons, and others who rely on customer accessibility. One frustrated businesswoman, a local clinic operator, said she has lost most of her income because the dust has made her premises unusable, with even storage rooms covered in thick layers of dirt.
Community Leaders Speak Out
Kigombya Village Chairperson, Mr. Salongo James Muyunga, acknowledged the residents' distress, stating that while local leaders have raised concerns with authorities, no tangible solutions have been provided. He expressed helplessness as businesses continue to suffer, with some owners relocating due to the unbearable conditions.
Taxation Without Service Delivery
Residents further lamented that despite paying heavy taxes, they have seen no benefits from the project. Many question why the government and the construction company have failed to address the deteriorating road conditions, which have worsened traffic flow and damaged livelihoods.
Appeal for Urgent Intervention
The community is now calling for immediate action, appealing to leaders like Gen. Katumba Wamala (Minister of Works) and President Museveni to intervene and ensure the road is completed. Locals argue that every day of delay deepens their losses, demanding accountability from both the contractors and supervising authorities.
