China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC), the firm contracted to upgrade key roads in Mukono Municipality, has shifted its focus to filling potholes in sections where revised designs have been approved by consultants.
This approach, aimed at easing traffic and enhancing safety, comes as part of the ongoing effort to deliver the World Bank-funded project.
The project covers an 8.68km network of roads, including Anthony-Kame, Kame Annex, Albertcook-Cathedral Rise, Kame-Nabuti-Katosi Road, Admin Link, Access Road, and Link Road.
These upgrades are expected to improve connectivity and stimulate development in Mukono, a rapidly growing municipality near Kampala.
However, despite the timeline, little progress has been made. In contrast, Sterling Engineering Limited, contracted on the same day to work on a different 9.72-kilometer stretch including Nasuuti-Nakabago-Ntawo and Bajjo-Seeta, has already graded their entire route.
CCCC attributes the delays to challenges including non-compliance from property owners on signing rights of way and delays in obtaining environmental and safety approvals from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA). Yet, some stakeholders dispute this explanation.
Eng. Qin Weidong, CCCC’s senior engineer, explained that the company is prioritizing pothole filling as a temporary maintenance measure.
“We asked for advanced payment, which has been delayed. During the rainy season, it’s unwise to open roads and leave them redundant,” he stated.
However, Eng. David Kaddu from UB Consulting Engineers, supervising the roadworks, contested these claims.
According to Kaddu, CCCC has already received revised designs for certain stretches but has failed to commence meaningful work.
“If they claim they haven’t received all the designs, what explains their inaction on completed stretches?” he questioned.
Kaddu also accused CCCC of failing to submit essential compliance documents, including updated programs, insurance policies, and safety-related approvals.
“We issued a timeline for compliance. Why is Sterling Engineering progressing while CCCC lags behind?” he asked.
Government Response
During a recent site visit, State Minister for Kampala Metropolitan Affairs, Kabuye Kyofatogabye, expressed frustration with CCCC’s slow progress.
“We don’t want a repeat of the conflicts we had in Kampala. CCCC must avoid misunderstandings and expedite work,” he warned.
Residents have expressed dismay over the delays, which they say have disrupted daily life. Jamir Ssewankambo, a local resident, urged the government to take decisive action.
“The government should either compel the contractor to meet the schedule or terminate their contract,” he said.
Another resident, Richard Kalema, criticized the use of soil to fill potholes.
“This complicates movement and shows a lack of commitment to quality work. Reliable companies should handle such critical projects,” he said.
Misunderstanding Resolved
Earlier speculation blamed delays on Mukono Diocese’s refusal to sign rights of way.
However, Bishop Enos Kagodo provided evidence that the diocese had complied months ago, prompting an apology from municipal leaders and Minister Kyofatogabye.
In the meantime, residents hope the government will enforce accountability, ensuring the project’s success and value for money.
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