Uganda Infrastructure Projects Face Delays and Motor Trade Disruptions

The Minister of Works and Transport, Fred Byamukama, warned the contractor for the Masaka–Kyotera–Mutukula Road project to commence tarmacking within 90 days, noting that physical progress stood at only 23% of the work. Meanwhile, motor trade dealers demanded the government cancel the 10-year contract with Joint Stock Company Global Security, citing persistent failures in the Intelligent Transport Monitoring System (ITMS) and resulting shortages of digital number plates. Separately, two highway engineers were suspended by the Ministry of Works and Transport following allegations that they manipulated the alignment of the SHS1.7 trillion Busega-Mpigi Expressway, contributing to cost escalation.

The delays in strategic regional corridors, such as the Masaka–Kyotera–Mutukula Road, impact vital routes for trade and cross-border movement. The failures of the ITMS and the resulting number plate shortages are causing severe business disruptions for car and motorcycle dealers. Furthermore, the investigation into the Busega-Mpigi Expressway involves a massive escalation in project costs.