Kampala Minister, Hajjati Minsa Kabanda, has cautioned contractors against mismanaging government funds during the construction of roads under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area program, warning that any misuse would undermine national development and burden Ugandan taxpayers.
Speaking at the commissioning of the 7.8-kilometre Ntenjeru–Bule Road in Mpata, built by China Railway No.5 Engineering Group, Kabanda emphasised that the money being used was borrowed from international lenders and must be repaid promptly.
“These funds are not free; we must pay them back,” the minister said. “That means the entire nation has a responsibility for this money. I therefore urge you to complete this road within the 18 months given. Furthermore, do not deliver substandard work—we want a road that will last over 25 years. Do not allow yourselves to be used by government officials or politicians to misuse the funds allocated for this road.”
Kabanda reminded contractors that poor financial management and shoddy work could cause huge losses to the government, delay development, and erode public trust.
Local leaders welcomed the project
Mukono South Member of Parliament, Fred Kayondo, hailed the government’s intervention, saying the new road would ease the transportation of goods, including imports from the ports, which would in turn boost trade in the region.
He also commended residents who willingly offered part of their land for the project, enabling the construction of a wider and stronger road.
Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Mukono, Moses Muyambi, assured the public that security operatives were closely monitoring the project to ensure accountability. “We will deal with anyone caught stealing materials like fuel and construction equipment,” he warned.
Meanwhile, Mukono District Chairperson, Rev. Peter Bakaluba, urged contractors and workers to maintain discipline and respect community values during the project. He cautioned against misconduct such as theft, abuse of residents, or impregnating underage girls, noting that such behaviour could turn communities against government programs.
Mixed reactions from residents
While many locals welcomed the road as a catalyst for development, others expressed frustration over the lack of compensation. Fiona Ampaire: “Honestly, the government should have compensated us. I have had my business here for a long time, but now they are going to evict me. Where will I go? I don’t even have starting capital.”
Moses Mutabaazi: “We are very grateful for this government program. Personally, I believe our area will develop. Money will flow into the community, and our living standards will improve.”
John Safaali: “I had my plot along this road, and it was taken. What hurt me most is that I hear some people elsewhere were compensated, but we here were not given any money. They took our land for free.”
The Ntenjeru–Bule Road project is expected to be completed in 18 months and will serve as a key link in improving connectivity and trade within Mukono District and beyond.
