(Kampala) – The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has been granted an extra 40 months to finesse their road rehabilitation project—a task that now resembles a classic Ugandan marathon where everyone seems to be running in slow motion.
Originally slated to wrap up by 2025, the Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project (KCRRP) funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) will now stretch its legs until 2027. Why? Because, apparently, Kampala’s roads are taking their time to learn the art of being paved.
According to a recent appraisal visit by the AfDB team, the 1.08 trillion Shilling project, meant to turn our beloved city into a model of urban perfection, is moving at a pace slower than a tortoise on a hot day. Despite the project’s ambitious goal to boost Kampala’s infrastructure and competitiveness, only 28% of the work has been completed.
Kampala City remains riddled with potholes and dust clouds as the project crawls along. The AfDB team, led by Prof. Anthony Nyong, is remarkably upbeat about the “progress,” even as residents face a daily grind of traffic jams, potholes, and the frequent flooded street. Prof. Nyong’s cheerful remarks about resilience and sustainability are a bit like praising a chef for their creativity after they have burned the entire dinner.
Table: Current Status of Roadworks
| Roadworks Status | Percentage Completed | Original Deadline | New Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Roadworks | 28% | 2025 | 2027 |
| Roads Under Construction | 69 km | — | — |
The project’s goals include reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality, with promises of Eco-Bus services and pedestrian friendly pathways. However, with the current pace, Kampala residents might need a divine intervention or at least a few more prayers before they see any meaningful changes.
Meanwhile, the city’s roads remain a testament to the classic Ugandan approach of “sawa, sawa”—or “we will get there eventually.” The infrastructure woes of Kampala are as familiar as the smell of grilled tilapia in Port Bell. The city’s 2,110 km of roads are mostly in poor shape, with only 30% paved.
KCCA’s Director of Engineering and Technical Services, Justus Akankwasa, explained that Kampala, with its “seven hills,” faces persistent flooding challenges. Akankwasa’s appeal for support to re-engineer systems for tackling climate challenges sounds hopeful, though it is similare to asking a chicken to lay eggs on demand.
One can only hope that the roads of Kampala will eventually reflect the grandeur promised—perhaps when the next presidential election comes around. For now, residents will continue to navigate their dusty, pothole ridden paths while waiting for the big day.
