The Ugandan government has issued a national travel warning following days of relentless rainfall that has washed away bridges, submerged highways, and disrupted travel across major routes in the country.
The advisory released by the Ministry of Works and Transport urges motorists, pedestrians and transport operators to exercise extreme caution as engineers work to repair damaged sections of the national road network. Officials say the prolonged rains have caused serious flooding and structural failures in several districts, making some roads unsafe for travel.
Addressing the public, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister for Works and Transport, appealed to Ugandans to avoid flooded roads and to follow diversion guidance where issued.
“We appeal to all road users to be vigilant and patient. Some sections that appear safe may have weakened or been washed away beneath the surface. Do not take unnecessary risks,” Katumba Wamala warned.
Among the areas hardest hit are stretches of the Karuma–Kamdini Highway, Kapchorwa–Suam Road and Rubuguri–Katojo Road, where floods, mudslides, and eroded culverts have made movement extremely difficult. The ministry has directed truck drivers and bus operators to use alternative routes until the roads are restored.
Motorists are also being advised to reduce speed, maintain safe following distances, and avoid travelling at night through flood-prone or hilly terrain. Boda-boda riders and pedestrians have been cautioned against attempting to cross water-logged bridges or landslide-prone slopes.
According to the Uganda National Meteorological Authority, heavy rains are expected to persist throughout November, heightening the risk of further flooding and road washouts.
Officials say emergency roadworks are already underway, with the government prioritising drainage expansion, culvert replacement, and embankment stabilisation on major highways.
“Our teams are on the ground. We are working to reopen the affected routes, but public safety must come first,” the minister added.
With transport corridors under strain, authorities are urging the public to plan journeys carefully, remain alert and cooperate with road maintenance teams as Uganda braces for more rain in the coming weeks.