Leaders in Kisoro District have welcomed the government’s decision to procure a new contractor to complete the stalled Kisoro–Mgahinga Road project, describing the move as a major boost to transport, tourism and economic development in the district.
The 18.1-kilometre road, which links Kisoro Town to the tourism-rich Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, was commissioned on June 13, 2025, by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa.
The Shs112 billion project is jointly funded by the African Development Bank and the Government of Uganda.
Construction works had been awarded to Samcrete Egypt Engineers and Contractors and were expected to be completed within 18 months, followed by a three-year maintenance period.
However, the contractor abandoned the project shortly after work began, sparking concern among residents, local leaders and tourism operators who depend on the road for transport and business.
The stalled project was raised on the floor of Parliament on July 8, 2026, by Ndorwa West Member of Parliament Eliab Naturinda Mporera during a sitting chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa.
Responding to the concerns, Minister of Works and Transport Fred Byamukama told Parliament that the government had initiated the process of identifying a new contractor after the previous company failed to execute the project as expected.
Kisoro District Speaker Amos Hakizimana said district leaders have consistently engaged the government over the delayed works and have now received assurances that the process of procuring a replacement contractor is underway.
“We have been following up this matter because the road is important for the district’s development. We are encouraged by the government’s commitment to have the project resume,” Hakizimana said.
Nyarusiza Sub-county LCV Woman Councillor Joyce Mutuzo Nsaba described the government’s decision as a welcome development that will improve livelihoods and open up business opportunities in the area.
She urged residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with contractors once construction resumes, while cautioning women and girls against engaging in acts of violence or conflict that could disrupt their families and the progress of the project.
Meanwhile, Nyarusiza Sub-county LCIII Chairperson Nsabimana Erasmus said his office has not yet received official communication regarding the resumption of the works.
He noted that the last information he received about the project was during the election period and appealed for timely updates from the responsible authorities to keep local leaders and residents informed.
The Kisoro–Mgahinga Road is considered a key infrastructure project expected to improve access to one of Uganda’s leading tourism destinations, facilitate trade, and enhance connectivity for communities in southern Kisoro District.
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