New Ssezibwa Arch Bridge to boost trade, connectivity in Kayunga

Kayunga, Uganda: Construction of the Shs54 billion Ssezibwa Arch Bridge over River Ssezibwa in Kayunga is nearing completion, raising optimism among motorists and traders who have long endured costly and unreliable alternative routes.

The project, being implemented by Dynaco Ltd, began in 2024 and is expected to be completed by December this year. Upon completion, the new arch bridge will replace a 70-year-old bridge that had become dilapidated and unsafe, leading to restrictions on heavy vehicles.

According to site engineer Sam Nabimanya, the main bridge structure is now complete, with only finishing works remaining. “Construction of the bridge structure is complete, and we are now left with installation of side barriers on the deck,” Nabimanya said.

He added that four three-cell box culverts have already been constructed as part of the wider infrastructure works.

Eng. Derrick Arinaitwe, the project quality assurance controller, said overall progress currently stands at 60 per cent, while the bridge itself is at 98 per cent completion. “We are now undertaking road widening in the swampy section ahead of tarmacking the 1.6-kilometre stretch,” Arinaitwe explained.

Engineers cited weather disruptions, scarcity of materials such as marram, and institutional transitions following the merger of UNRA into the Ministry of Works and Transport as factors that slowed progress. “Whenever it rains, work has to stop,” Nabimanya noted.

Relief for Transporters and Farmers

Motorists and transporters say the new bridge will significantly reduce operational costs and improve connectivity.

Mr Simon Kitimbo, a sugarcane truck driver, said the current alternative routes are both longer and costly. “We incur high fuel costs and vehicle maintenance due to longer routes, especially during the rainy season. With the new bridge, our suffering is about to end,” he said.

Another driver, Mr Daniel Lule, noted that the Kyampisi–Ntunda–Kabimbiri route is often impassable during heavy rains, disrupting transport of goods. “The new bridge will boost trade and increase farmers’ incomes because heavy trucks will now access the district more easily,” Lule added.

Kayunga District LC5 Chairperson Andrew Muwonge said the bridge will strengthen inter-district connectivity, linking Kayunga with Mukono, Kamuli, and Buyende.

With the Isimba Bridge already improving access across the Nile, officials say the Ssezibwa project will further enhance trade routes and economic activity in the region.

The project includes a 1.6km road section crossing the Ssezibwa swamp, designed to improve durability and accessibility throughout the year.

The Ssezibwa Arch Bridge is the first of its kind in Uganda and is designed with a lifespan of up to 120 years, offering improved durability and environmental compatibility, including better water and vegetation flow beneath the structure.

Additional Reporting by Fred Muzaale, Monitor Newspaper!