Kampala, November 2024 – The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) has authorized the procurement of the Shs 460bn Kyenjojo (Kihura)–Bwizi–Rwamwanja–Kahunge (68km) and Mpara-Bwizi (38km) road project, overcoming attempts by saboteurs to derail the process.
The project, which includes upgrading 20km of town roads to bituminous standard, is seen as vital for the socio-economic transformation of western Uganda. The roads will support agricultural trade, tourism, and aid delivery to the Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement, home to over 73,000 people. Currently, the roads are in deplorable condition, characterized by potholes, poor drainage, and frequent accidents.
“This road is long overdue,” said Amon Twesigye, a resident of Kamwenge. “President Museveni pledged it in 2011, and Area MP Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, along with other MPs, has been following up on this project. But delays caused by bidders and the collapsing River Mpanga bridge have left us desperate. We need this road now.”
The project has faced significant delays due to interference from “tender-preneurs” – middlemen representing unsuccessful bidders. These individuals reportedly fueled whistleblower complaints, alleging irregularities in the procurement process. Claims included the unfair disqualification of a Turkish firm, UCA Insaat, and accusations against the awarded contractor, Arab Contractors, over bid price manipulation and non-compliance with technical requirements.
Some whistleblowers, reportedly backed by an opposition Democratic Party MP from Buganda, accused Tumwebaze of supporting Arab Contractors to secure the contract and blocking investigations into the process. Tumwebaze dismissed the allegations as “defamatory” and “baseless,” later suing an unregistered online news outlet that retracted the story.
After a year-long investigation, PPDA dismissed the allegations, confirming that the evaluation adhered to procurement guidelines and international best practices. The agency highlighted that price adjustments and other changes were consistent with recommendations from the Islamic Development Bank, which is funding the project.
Officials revealed that some brokers, who had collected advance commissions but failed to secure contracts, turned to sabotage after their efforts failed. “These tender-preneurs are becoming a significant obstacle,” said an official. “Uganda must address this growing problem if it is to implement large-scale infrastructure projects effectively.”
An official working with international finance institutions echoed similar sentiments, comparing Uganda’s challenges to neighboring countries. “Unlike Tanzania and Ethiopia, where major infrastructure projects have taken off successfully, Uganda is being bogged down by individuals seeking to profit from the system rather than enabling progress.”
The road project, which passes through critical areas like Kibaale National Park and connects Uganda to Rwanda and the DRC, is expected to boost trade, tourism, and agriculture. It will also provide a lifeline for communities relying on the road for access to markets, schools, and health centers.
“This road is a game-changer for the region,” said a Uganda National Roads Authority official. “We cannot let the actions of a few saboteurs jeopardize the economic future of western Uganda. The focus now is on getting the project underway as soon as possible.”
With PPDA clearing the procurement process and allegations resolved, the government is optimistic the road upgrades will soon begin, bringing much-needed relief to the region and accelerating its development.
