China Henan International Corporation Group Company Ltd, a Chinese company has scooped the UGX 207,834,646,967 (Two hundred and seven Billion, eight hundred thirty four billion six hundred forty six thousand nine hundred sixty seven only) to upgrade the long awaited Rukungiri, Kihihi, Kanungu, Ishasha, Kambuga-Rugyeyo through Nyakishenyi to Kisiizi Rubaaare road.
This contract between the company the Uganda national Roads Authority has been sealed this morning at UNRA offices in Kampala.
This project is funded through a loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Road Sector Support Project V (RSSP V) Project.
The project road is an earth gravel road traversing the districts of Rukungiri and Kanungu.
According to UNRA, the evaluation of bids was carried out as well as due diligence.
The UNRA Contracts Committee approved the Evaluation Report prior to review of the same by the African Development Bank (ADB). The ADB has since given the No Objection and the Solicitor General has cleared the contract for signature.
According to records from UNRA, the contractor is expected to commence works within 42 days from today and complete all the works within 36 (thirty-six) months which is about 3 years. The works will be supervised by M/S SMEC Limited.
Background
In 2016, Police in Kanungu district arrested Mr Dixon Ampumuza Kagurusi and five others demonstrating over the delayed construction of Rukungiri-Ishaha-Kanungu road.
The demonstration was based on the fact that government had promised that tarmacking the road would commence in January 2015 yet nothing was being done.
When contacted, Mr Ampumuza expressed delight saying that his efforts have not been in vain.
“I am happy that my efforts have not been in vain. I am also excited about the prospective businesses and other developments that will happen in Kanungu as a result of the road,” said Mr Kagurusi.
While campaigning for an NRM candidate recently in Rukungiri, president Museveni said that the road which has dragged for sometime would be constructed using government money.