Museveni Breaks Ground for Shs 56 Billion Bukasa–Ssentema–Kakiri Road Project

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, on Tuesday, officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Bukasa–Ssentema–Kakiri Road.

The event took place at Bukasa Catholic Church in Bukasa Village, Bukasa Sub-county, Busiro County, Wakiso District.

The 12.7km road, being constructed by the Chinese firm CICO at a cost of Shs 56 billion, is expected to be completed within 18 months. According to Eng. Simon Odoki, the resident contractor, the contract period runs from May 2, 2025, to November 2, 2026, with current progress at 4.1%. Once completed, the dual carriageway—18 metres wide—is expected to become one of the best roads in the area.

Addressing residents, President Museveni reiterated that the National Resistance Movement (NRM)’s development strategy emphasizes both vertical and horizontal integration, as outlined in the Ten Point Programme. He explained that after assuming power, the government prioritized the rehabilitation of critical roads in Wakiso District and is now upgrading them to tarmac standards.

However, the President cautioned the public against focusing solely on infrastructure development, emphasizing the need to improve household incomes.

“It is good to have a tarmac road, but what is your income at home? That is why we introduced wealth creation at the household level—because government jobs alone are not enough,” Museveni said.

He emphasized that wealth creation naturally spurs job creation, industrial growth, and expansion of service sectors like hospitality and transport. He also highlighted the role of factories in adding value to Uganda’s raw materials and creating employment opportunities—efforts aimed at strengthening the national economy.

As part of his support to the local community, President Museveni donated Shs 300 million—shared between Bukasa Catholic Church and the local Protestant church.

Former Vice President H.E. Gilbert Bukenya, who also attended the ceremony, praised the NRM government for taking on the road project, which he said had been neglected by previous leaders.

“As a gesture of appreciation, we should support President Museveni and the NRM government in the upcoming elections,” Bukenya urged.

He also commended the President’s efforts in promoting value addition, citing the growth of factories that are now producing goods locally.

In his remarks, Eng. Odoki thanked residents of Wakiso for their cooperation, especially for providing the right of way without demanding compensation. He credited the progress of the project to President Museveni’s visionary leadership.

Once completed, the Bukasa–Ssentema–Kakiri Road is expected to enhance connectivity in Busiro County, facilitate trade, and boost socio-economic development in Wakiso District and the surrounding areas.