Moyo, Uganda: Construction of the long-awaited 103-kilometre Koboko–Yumbe–Moyo road is steadily taking shape as the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) and Chinese contractor Zhongmei Engineering Group intensify work on the multi-million-dollar project, funded through a World Bank grant.
The project, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and boosting trade in the northwestern sub-region, involves upgrading the gravel stretch to tarmac and constructing the Baringa Bridge to improve cross-district mobility.
The $130 million (approx. UGX 498 billion) investment is being implemented over three years, with active works now visible across all three districts.
UNRA officials say the upgraded road will feature concrete asphalt surfacing, pedestrian walkways, street lighting in urban centres, and the development of modern roadside markets.
According to Eng. Alex Otim from the Ministry of Works and Transport, who recently inspected the works, the government has already compensated 95 percent of Project Affected Persons (PAPs), while the remaining 5 percent will receive their payment under a supplementary budget released earlier this year.
Project Manager Zou Changwei confirmed that operational bases have been established in Moyo, Yumbe, and Koboko to facilitate smooth delivery and supervision. Early works currently underway include land clearing, relocating utility lines such as water pipes and power poles, and site mapping.
However, the project has not been without setbacks.
Changwei cited a water shortage during the dry season, forcing contractors to truck in water from long distances, leading to avoidable delays. He also pointed out delays in site handovers by the Ministry of Works, which continue to hinder full-scale implementation.
He urged communities along the road corridor to exercise caution, noting that several road sections remain active construction zones. He also appealed for public support in safeguarding equipment and avoiding vandalism and theft, which have been reported in isolated cases.
Local leaders have hailed the project as a game-changer for the West Nile region. Moyo District Chairperson William Anyama said the road is not just a transport link but a lifeline that will drive inclusive economic growth, facilitate cross-border trade with South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and improve service delivery in refugee-hosting areas.
Zhongmei’s communications officer, Ms. Pamela Kusimba, added that the project will incorporate proper road signage and safety infrastructure to reduce accidents. She also revealed that the company has begun community outreach campaigns in schools and local councils to raise awareness on responsible road use and traffic safety ahead of project completion.
The Koboko–Yumbe–Moyo road project is part of a wider government effort to address critical infrastructure gaps in the West Nile sub-region.
Despite its vast size of over 16,900 square kilometers, the region has only 214 kilometers of paved roads, just 13 percent of its total road network, far below the national average of 41 kilometers per 1,000 square kilometers.
Recent infrastructure developments in the region include the completed 92km Vurra–Arua–Koboko road, the Paraa Bridge, and ferry docking site upgrades at Obongi and Sinyanya.
Other ongoing works include the construction of the 66 km Atiak–Adjumani–Umi road, the 62.5 km Olwiyo–Pakwach road, and the 4.3 km Alwi–Nebbi road.
UNRA is also overseeing bridge works on rivers Alla, Gazi, Aca, Osu, Kochi, Odra, and Amua to further enhance rural connectivity and safety.
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