Angry Matinza Residents Plan Protest over Impassable Road.

By Gerald Niyirinda

Residents of Matinza and Gikoro villages in Nyakabande sub-county, Kisoro District have vowed to stage a peaceful demonstration because of a section on Kisoro – Rubuguri road that has been submerged in stagnant water for months hindering mobility of people and goods.

The Frustrated residents in the area say they are now battling fever and Malaria because of the stagnant water which is an increased economic burden in times when cash flow is scarce.

Nyakabande LCV Councillor Maniraguha Godfrey Rukara says the district leadership has kept a blind eye despite numerous attempts to engage them to help the people of Matinza.

During a recent meeting with the District LCV Chairperson, Rukara warned that the people are planning a peaceful demonstration that will result in the blocking of a major tourism road unless those responsible can find a solution to their problem.

Kisoro – Rubuguri road is a gate way to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the endangered mountain Gorillas as well as Lake Mulehe and other Major Tourist Locations.

Akintore David, LCI Chairperson of Gikoro village showed full support of the idea to hold a demonstration because people have no way of transporting their merchandize to the market.

Other residents spoke harshly about the District LCV chairperson Abel Bizimana and his ambitions to vie for Member of Parliament for the same area being affected by poor service delivery.

They said his inability to liaise with Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) to fix the road is a clear sign that he is not fit to become a Parliamentarian.

Abel Bizimana explained that road works cannot take place, especially during the rainy season however he noted that plans are underway to help rescue the situation in Matinza.

Kisoro District Chief Administrative Officer Hajji Badru Majwala says, the Mandate to fix Kisoro- Rubuguri and Kisoro – Mgahinga road fall under the purview of UNRA.

Majwala said the lead engineer who sits in Mbarara has been engaged to response to the worrying situation within the shortest time possible.