In a significant move to enhance rural accessibility and boost economic activity, the government has allocated UGX 443 million for the construction of the Obalanga–Amare–Ocongoda (15 km) and Obalanga–Oditel (16 km) roads in Kapelebyong District.
According to the district authorities, UGX 235 million has been allocated for the Obalanga–Amare–Ocongoda Road, while UGX 208 million will fund the Obalanga–Oditel Road. The money is part of the mechanized road grant, a UGX 1 billion package disbursed to local governments for road works across the country.
Officials say the move to channel additional resources through the Land Fund demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving and maintaining Uganda’s rural road network. The selected roads, both vital community links, have long faced challenges related to poor accessibility—particularly during heavy rains.
The project comes at a strategic time, following the recent floods that submerged several roads in Kapelebyong District, cutting off residents from schools, hospitals, and markets. Emmanuel Opio, Communications Officer at Kapelebyong District Local Government, said the funds were planned for the 2025/2026 financial year, specifically to improve road connectivity and access to essential services.
He praised the government’s continued investment in infrastructure development within the district, noting that improved roads will significantly enhance livelihoods and economic activity.
The commissioning ceremony concluded with expressions of gratitude to the technical team from the Ministry of Works and Transport for their role in improving the district’s road network.
Augustine Ojomi, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kapelebyong, who presided over the commissioning, urged the contractor to adhere strictly to design standards, contract specifications, and supervisory instructions.
He also called on the contractor to prioritize local employment opportunities and to consider environmental sustainability, gender inclusion, HIV/AIDS awareness, occupational health and safety, and the needs of people with disabilities and the elderly.
Currently, torrential rains continue to batter much of the Teso sub-region, worsening the condition of rural roads. For the past three months, residents of Kapelebyong have struggled to navigate flooded routes to access schools, health centers, and markets.
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