According to Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, the Ministry of Finance is finalizing the protocol for the contract agreement, which will be signed soon. Once the contract is signed, the contractor will immediately begin implementing the project.
The government is finalizing plans to upgrade the Kitgum-Kidepo Highway, a major road that connects Kitgum District to Kidepo Valley National Game Park in Karenga District.
According to Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, the Ministry of Finance is finalizing the protocol for the contract agreement, which will be signed soon. Once the contract is signed, the contractor will immediately begin implementing the project.
The 134-kilometer highway is a critical route that facilitates the movement of tourists, goods, and services between Kitgum District and Kidepo Valley National Game Park. The park is one of Uganda's most popular tourist destinations, known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
The upgrade of the highway is expected to improve the road's condition, making it safer and more accessible for tourists and local communities. The project is also expected to boost economic growth in the region by increasing trade and investment opportunities.
Lillian Aber, the State Minister for Disaster Preparedness, Relief, and Refugees, who also serves as the Kitgum District Woman Member of Parliament, had requested the government to implement the tarmacking of the Kitgum-Kidepo Highway. Aber noted that the road is a vital source of revenue for the government, as it connects tourists to Kidepo Valley National Game Park.
"We are grateful that the government has finalized plans to upgrade the Kitgum-Kidepo Highway," Aber said. "This project will not only improve the road's condition but also boost economic growth in the region."
She said the government's decision to upgrade the Kitgum-Kidepo Highway is a welcome move as long the people using this road have suffered due to the poor condition of the road.
"The project is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region" Aber revealed.
She also revealed that the upgrade of the Kitgum-Kidepo Highway will be an investment in Uganda's tourism industry, which is a major contributor to the country's economy, and increase tourist arrivals and revenue, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in the region.
Last year, Parliament approved a 450 million Shillings loan from Standard Chartered Bank to finance the project.
Freelancer
Freelance Reporter
Opoka Denis
Freelancer