Kole, Uganda: Kole North Member of Parliament, Dr Samuel Opio Acuti, over the weekend commissioned two bridges worth Shs79 million, restoring connectivity across long-troubled swampy routes and ending years of isolation for thousands of residents.
The bridges, constructed across Ayile Swamp and Abongo Nyeko Swamp, now link Alito, Okwerodot, and Aboke sub-counties to each other and to Lira City, routes that were previously impassable during rainy seasons, disrupting transport, trade, education, and access to healthcare.
Speaking at the commissioning, Dr Acuti attributed the project’s success to his collaboration with the central government.
“These bridges are a result of the networks I have built and the good working relationship I maintain with the government,” he said. “When leaders collaborate effectively, service delivery becomes possible even in hard-to-reach areas.”
He added: “For years, our people have suffered crossing these swamps. Today, we are restoring dignity, improving safety, and opening up Kole North for economic growth.”
Residents described the bridges as a long-awaited breakthrough that will transform daily life and livelihoods.
Ms Acan Betty, a produce trader in Aboke Sub-county, said the development would stabilise her income. “We used to fear the rainy season because it meant losses. Sometimes we couldn’t cross at all,” she said. “Now I can take my goods to market without worrying about water levels or accidents.”
Mr Okello James, a boda boda rider along the Alito–Lira route, said transport has now become safer and more efficient. “This bridge has made our work easier. Before, we risked our lives or took very long routes,” he said. “Now passengers are safer, and business will improve.”
For Ms Akello Rose from Okwerodot, the bridges could mean the difference between life and death. “When a child fell sick at night, crossing the swamp was almost impossible,” she said. “This bridge will help us reach hospitals in time.”
Students also welcomed the development, saying it will reduce absenteeism caused by flooding. “I missed lessons whenever the swamp overflowed,” said Mr Okello Ben. “Now I can attend school consistently.”
Farmers expect improved access to markets and better prices for their produce. “We have been selling at low prices because traders avoided our area. With better access, we can reach bigger markets and earn more,” said Mr Odongo Michael.
Teachers noted broader benefits for service delivery and mobility. “This is a big step for education and service delivery. Attendance will improve, and even teachers can move more easily,” said Ms Aber Sarah.
Local leaders say the bridges will boost trade, reduce travel time and transport costs, and improve emergency response across the sub-counties, especially during the rainy season.
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