By Weswa Ronnie
BUGISU
A major road project linking Bugisu to Karamoja is ushering in a new era of economic growth, agricultural expansion, and improved security for communities along the route.
The Muyembe-Nakapiripirit Road, now 83% complete, is transforming a region that once struggled with poor infrastructure and economic stagnation.
For decades, residents of Bulambuli faced immense challenges due to impassable roads, high transport costs, and insecurity.
However, the improved road network is already making a significant impact like Transport costs have dropped drastically, making trade more accessible and boosting local businesses.
Joseph Walameli a farmer also doubles as LC3 Chairperson of Bumufuni sub county says a trip from Atari trading center to Bumufuni, which used to cost 10,000 shillings, now only costs 3,000/=
He says farmers who once struggled to get their produce to market are now seeing new opportunities.
The fertile land of Bulambuli is once again being put to productive use, with commercial farming gaining momentum.
Organizations like JAICA and the Ministry of Agriculture are investing in agricultural projects, including livestock farming and sunflower production, attracting investors and boosting the local economy.
According to Hamuza Kitutu, a resident of Bulambuli also says that Urbanization is also on the rise, with new homes, businesses, and infrastructure emerging along the road.
“Development is happening rapidly. People are constructing day and night,” Kitutu observed.
He says beyond economic transformation, security in the region has greatly improved. The area was previously plagued by cattle rustling, but the upgraded roads have enabled faster response times by security forces.
Sam Watelo one of the farmers in the area said “We haven’t experienced cattle raids since July 2024. With the new roads, we can intercept the rustlers much more easily,”
Tourism is another sector benefiting from the road upgrade.
Pian Upe Game Reserve once difficult to access is now attracting more visitors, especially Ugandans eager to explore domestic wildlife.
The Islamic Development Bank (IDB)-funded project, contracted to Turkish company Polatyo Yol Yapi San for Shs 399 billion, is set for completion in August this year.
Despite challenges such as theft of fuel and materials, the technical engineering supervisor, Erbril Mustafa, affirmed that the project remains on schedule.
As the Muyembe-Nakapiripirit Road nears completion, the region is experiencing a remarkable transformation.
With better roads, a thriving agricultural sector, and enhanced security, Bulambuli, Kween, and the wider Bugisu-Karamoja corridor are poised for long-term prosperity.
