Excitement as Construction of Kabale–Lake Bunyonyi Tourism Road Officially Launched

Alex Byakatonda

Communications Officer-Kabale

The long-awaited construction of the Kabale–Lake Bunyonyi tourism road has officially commenced, generating excitement among tourism stakeholders, local leaders, and residents of southwestern Uganda.

 

The 8.4-kilometre stretch is part of the larger Kabale–Lake Bunyonyi–Kisoro–Mgahinga Roads Upgrading Project, estimated to cost UGX 122 billion. The project is jointly funded by the Government of Uganda and the African Development Bank.

The groundbreaking ceremony was presided over by Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, who represented President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. In a speech delivered on behalf of the President, Tayebwa emphasized the importance of the project as part of the National Development Plan III (2020/21–2024/25), which prioritizes infrastructure development as a driver of economic transformation.

 

According to the President’s message, the Kabale–Lake Bunyonyi road is vital for unlocking the tourism and socio-economic potential of the region. Lake Bunyonyi is one of Uganda’s most iconic natural attractions, known for its fresh waters, mild climate, terraced green hills, and 29 scenic islands. The area attracts tourists, particularly after gorilla trekking excursions in Bwindi, who seek relaxation and leisure services around the lake.

 

Regarding the Kisoro–Mgahinga road, President Museveni highlighted its role in connecting key tourism attractions, including gorilla habitats, rare golden monkeys, the Batwa forest trail, and hiking routes to the peaks of Mounts Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. He also noted its proximity to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Beyond tourism, the President explained that the upgraded road infrastructure will improve intermodal transport connectivity, linking road and inland water transport systems on Lake Bunyonyi. This will provide safer, more reliable access to the lake’s islands, boost agricultural supply chains, and stimulate socio-economic development in Kabale, Kisoro, and the greater southwestern region.

 

The project is being executed by Samcrete Egypt Engineers and Contractors, an Egyptian firm commended by the President for bringing its expertise to Uganda. He urged local communities to seize the economic opportunities created by the project through jobs, supply of materials, and support services — all of which will help improve household incomes and contribute to Uganda’s development goals.

 

On his part,  Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa encouraged local investors and tourism operators to raise the quality of services to attract not just more tourists, but high-value, executive travelers who can contribute significantly to the regional economy. He revealed that the government has increased investment in the tourism sector and will soon establish dedicated tourism marketing desks at Ugandan embassies abroad to promote the country’s natural attractions.

 

Tayebwa also disclosed that the upcoming financial year will include enhanced funding for national security — which he emphasized is critical for sustaining tourism growth.

 

The Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, used the occasion to issue a stern warning to the contractor to deliver quality work on time. He called the project a “test case” for future contracts in the region. Gen. Katumba also highlighted additional features of the project, including:

 

Four modern landing sites

 

Two roadside markets

 

A facility for holding and processing farm produce

 

Two ferries for Lake Bunyonyi

 

A fully equipped search and rescue boat with navigation aids

 

He urged the contractor to construct these components concurrently with the road to ensure integrated and timely project completion.

 

Kabale District LC5 Chairperson, Nelson Nshangabasheija, welcomed the project, calling it a gateway to some of Uganda’s most important tourist destinations. He urged the contractor to prioritize local labor and use locally sourced materials so the people of Kabale can benefit directly from the project.

 

Other dignitaries in attendance included State Minister for Trade and Industry and Ndorwa West MP, David Bahati, Kabale Woman MP, Hon. Catherine Atwakiire Ndamira, and Kabale Municipality MP, Dr. Nicholas Kamara, among others from Kabale and Rubanda districts.

END