The National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, has pledged to improve infrastructure in the West Nile region to boost trade with neighbouring countries.
While addressing a rally at Dorcus Inzikuru Stadium in Barifa, Arua City, on Wednesday afternoon, Kyagulanyi said the poor state of roads in West Nile has greatly limited the sub-region’s potential as a key gateway for trade with the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.
He added that the government’s delay in upgrading Arua Airfield to international standards has hindered economic development despite the area’s strategic location.
Kyagulanyi further noted that the region lacks decent sports facilities despite producing renowned sports personalities such as steeplechase legend Dorcus Inzikuru, Muhammed Shaban, Ceaser Okhuti, as well as football clubs like Onduparaka FC, Paidha Black Angels, and Midigo Calvary FC, among others.
Hamid Musa Origa, a voter in Arua City, welcomed the pledges, saying improved infrastructure would create significant market opportunities for local traders. He criticised the government for neglecting the region. “We want change, if Bobi Wine wins the elections, we shall be united and socioeconomic transformation will be easy to realize,” Origa noted.
Meanwhile, Shamim Sebbi, another voter, said the government has previously made several unfulfilled promises to improve infrastructure in the region. She believes Kyagulanyi’s pledge, if fulfilled, will spur economic growth.
“What Kyagulanyi said at the rally is clear, and it will greatly transform the West Nile sub-region, which has been backward,” she said. Kyagulanyi, who began his campaigns in the West Nile sub-region in Pakwach District on Monday, is expected to address rallies in Maracha and Terego Districts on Thursday, and in Koboko and Yumbe Districts on Friday.
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