By Jumah Kakomo
Kampala Lord Mayor Elias Lukwago has voiced his frustration with the contractors handling major road projects in the city, accusing them of delivering substandard work and causing unnecessary delays. He questioned the inflated costs of construction, alleging the presence of “mafias and cartels” in the procurement processes.
Lukwago specifically criticized the cost of constructing roads in Kampala, stating that at approximately Shs14.4 billion per kilometer, the pricing is both “ridiculous” and “outrageous.” He made the remarks on Friday during the launch and unveiling of the conceptual master plan for the proposed redevelopment of Kabaka’s Lake, as well as the groundbreaking ceremony for Government of Uganda (GoU)-funded roads to be undertaken by Dott Services Limited.
The mayor lamented the slow pace of road construction, which he says has escalated costs and led to frustration among Kampala residents. Comparing Kampala’s road costs to other cities in Uganda, Lukwago argued that Kampala’s figures are unjustifiably high. He cited Dott Services Limited as a consistently poor performer and one of the worst contractors the city has seen, stating that their work often falls short of expectations.
“The delays and substandard work have significant implications for residents, who continue to suffer poor road conditions and potential safety hazards,” Lukwago said. He also called for an investigation into ongoing road construction projects and the alleged corruption, demanding greater accountability and transparency in the management of public funds.
In response, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki confirmed that the government has allocated Shs550 billion in the current financial year to construct 87 kilometers of roads across 24 different routes in the city, to be executed over three years in phases.
The first phase, according to Buzeki, includes 14.6 kilometers of roads such as Kabaka’s Lake Road, Burton Street, William Street, Wilson Road, and Church Road. These are expected to be completed within 18 months, with Dott Services Limited as the contractor under the supervision of KCCA and NBW Consulting Limited. She noted that Kabaka’s Lake Road is expected to be completed within four months.
Buzeki praised the Buganda Kingdom for its continued role in the development of Kampala, expressing gratitude for their efforts in promoting cultural heritage and community advancement. She affirmed KCCA’s commitment to work closely with the kingdom in enhancing the city’s development.
Owek. Israel Kazibwe Kitooke, the Buganda Kingdom’s Minister of Information and Publicity, highlighted the cultural and historical significance of Kabaka’s Lake, stressing that its renovation could boost tourism and improve the local economy. He described the lake as a potential peaceful retreat for both residents and tourists.
Minister for Kampala Hon. Minsa Nabbengo Kabanda encouraged all stakeholders to prioritize the preservation of Uganda’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. She emphasized that efforts to renovate Kabaka’s Lake and upgrade surrounding infrastructure could transform the area into a vibrant tourist and community hub. She reiterated KCCA’s commitment to improving the city’s roads and drainage systems.
Senior Pastor Robert Kayanja of Miracle Centre Cathedral also weighed in on the matter, pointing out key challenges facing Kabaka’s Lake, including poor drainage and illegal encroachment. These issues, he said, have led to pollution, degradation, and a shrinking of the lake’s original size. Pastor Kayanja reminded the public that he had previously called for the lake’s renovation during his Easter sermon, emphasizing the importance of preserving Uganda’s heritage.
He revealed that the church is currently in discussions with the Mengo government and other stakeholders, including KCCA and St. Lawrence University, to develop a comprehensive plan for the lake’s restoration.
Pastor Kayanja also called on KCCA to stop issuing operating licenses to businesses that fail to meet required standards. He further proposed that roads in Kampala be named according to their historical or cultural significance.
“Let me also take this opportunity to beg that Nkima Road be renamed as ‘Jesus Lane Road’,” Kayanja suggested. Nkima Road connects Miracle Centre Cathedral to the main road.
