By Walimbwa Moses
Motorists travelling along the Kampala–Masaka Highway can now use the reconstructed Katonga Bridge without taking the long diversions introduced after floods damaged the original crossing in May 2023.
The Government officially commissioned the new bridge on 17th October 2026 following reconstruction works costing approximately Shs191.4 billion. The project restores a vital transport link between Kampala and southwestern Uganda after more than three years of disruption.
The original bridge was severely damaged on 11th May 2023 when heavy rains caused River Katonga to burst its banks, disrupting traffic along one of Uganda’s busiest highways and forcing motorists to use longer alternative routes.
The diversions increased journey times and fuel costs for transporters, traders and passengers and affected the movement of agricultural produce along a corridor that supports domestic commerce and regional trade.
To restore connectivity, the Government in June 2023 contracted China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC) to construct a temporary steel bridge.
The temporary crossing was opened to all traffic, including heavy-goods vehicles, in December 2023.Construction of the permanent replacement bridge commenced in late 2024, following hydrological and meteorological assessments of the River Katonga basin.
The scope included construction of the new bridge, which is three metres higher than the old structure to mitigate future flood risk, and 2.7 kilometres of approach roads, alongside improvements to flood-prone sections around the Lwera and Kalandazi swamps.
During the commissioning ceremony, the Minister of State for Works and Transport, Hon. Fred Byamukama, challenged engineers to ensure the bridge achieves its projected 120-year design lifespan.
The Kampala–Masaka Highway is a key route for travel between the capital, Masaka, and southwestern Uganda and supports trade with neighbouring countries, making the reopening critical for transport and business.
With the permanent bridge now open, focus shifts to routine maintenance of the bridge and adjoining road sections to protect the investment and ensure reliable transport during heavy rains.