Mukono District Chairperson Francis Lukooya Mukoome has raised concern over theft and vandalism of materials on the ongoing Ntenjeru–Bule 7.8km road project, warning residents that sabotage will only delay development and leave communities to bear the cost.
Speaking during an inspection tour of the project site in Mpatta Sub-county, Lukooya said authorities have already obtained information on suspects involved in the theft of construction materials and fuel sniffing.
“We have been reliably informed of the trade of materials going on at the project site. This is orchestrated by locals who are supposed to be the major beneficiaries of the project. Know that you are undermining a project meant to drive development in this area,” Lukooya said.
He cautioned residents against sabotaging the project. “This road is being constructed for the benefit of the people of this area. If residents fail to protect it, contractors will eventually leave and the community will be left to bear the consequences. We must learn to value and protect public property,” the Chairperson said.
Lukooya also directed the contractor to observe the condition in the contract reserving at least 30 percent of jobs for local residents. He said district leaders will monitor implementation to ensure communities directly benefit through employment and business opportunities.
Constructed by China Railway No. 5 Engineering Group Company Limited, the Shs35.7 billion project is funded by the Government of Uganda and the World Bank under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme. It runs from the Ntenjeru–Kisoga Road junction through Bule towards Ggaba Town.
District Engineer Eng. Herbert Lutwama said the project is about 30 percent complete, with 2.5 kilometres of base course ready for surfacing. With nine months on site and nine months remaining under the contract, he said the remaining 5.2 kilometres will be completed on schedule. The road is designed to last 25 years.
Leaders said the road will improve connectivity in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, reduce traffic congestion by providing alternative routes, address drainage challenges, and create jobs.
Plans are also underway for a modern market along the corridor to boost household income and business opportunities.
Chairman Lukooya announced further plans to modernize Ggaba Landing Site with a parking yard, designated stages for motorcycles and vehicles, improved public facilities, and a new ferry service for passengers and vehicles to strengthen trade along Lake Victoria.
Mpatta residents raised concerns about cracking walls and damaged house roofs from construction vibrations, poor access roads to homes, and dust. Lukooya assured them the contractor will repair affected structures, improve community access roads, and regularly sprinkle water to reduce dust.
District leaders concluded by calling on residents to take ownership of the project, protect materials, and work with local authorities to safeguard public infrastructure.
Once complete, the Ntenjeru–Bule Road is expected to open new economic opportunities, improve access to markets and social services, and drive long-term development in Mukono District.
The inspection tour was organized by Mukono District Local Government in collaboration with the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme.