KAGAWA JAPAN – The Government of Uganda has reached a major milestone in the redevelopment of the country’s transport infrastructure after signing the Civil Works Contract for the construction of the new Karuma Bridge along the strategic Kampala–Gulu Highway.
The contract was signed during a ceremony held in Japan, marking the commencement of a project that is expected to significantly improve road safety, ease transportation, facilitate trade, and strengthen regional integration.
Representing the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Commissioner for National Roads, Eng. Isaac Wani, said the bridge project is being funded by the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). He noted that the new bridge will play a vital role in enhancing connectivity between central and northern Uganda while supporting cross-border trade within the East African region.
“The construction of the new Karuma Bridge will improve safety, connectivity, trade, and regional integration along the Kampala–Gulu corridor,” Eng. Wani said during the signing ceremony.
The civil works will be undertaken by Zenitaka Corporation, a Japanese engineering and construction company selected to execute the project.
Karuma Bridge is one of Uganda’s most important transport links, carrying thousands of passengers and cargo vehicles every day along the Kampala–Gulu Highway, a major route connecting Uganda to South Sudan and other neighbouring countries. The new bridge is expected to provide a modern, durable crossing that will improve traffic flow and reduce disruptions experienced on the existing structure.
The project reflects the longstanding development partnership between Uganda and Japan, with JICA continuing to support key infrastructure projects aimed at promoting economic growth and sustainable development.
Uganda’s delegation to the contract signing ceremony included H.E. Tophace Kaahwa, Uganda’s Ambassador to Japan; Pius Perry Biribonwoha, the Solicitor General; Eng. Isaac Wani from the Ministry of Works and Transport; Mr. Nurh Byarufu, Minister Counsellor at the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Japan; and Ms. Elizabeth Zungu Akimpye, Acting Head of Commercial Law.
Government officials expressed confidence that the project will boost economic activity by facilitating the efficient movement of people and goods along one of Uganda’s busiest transport corridors.
Once completed, the new Karuma Bridge is expected to improve the resilience of the national road network, support regional trade, enhance tourism, and contribute to Uganda’s long-term infrastructure development agenda under the country’s national development plans.
The signing of the contract underscores the continued cooperation between Uganda and Japan in delivering transformative infrastructure projects that are expected to drive economic growth and improve the livelihoods of millions of Ugandans.
