By Damali Mukhaye
The government has announced a traffic diversion along the Kampala Northern Bypass following the planned commencement of periodic road maintenance works aimed at improving the condition of the highway.
The maintenance, which will start on Friday, 13 February 2026, is expected to last at least two months.
According to the Ministry of Works and Transport, the repairs will affect the section between the Bwaise and Namungoona interchanges, where engineers have begun preparatory works ahead of full-scale rehabilitation.
While acknowledging the inconvenience likely to be caused, the government says the repairs are necessary to enhance safety and improve the overall driving experience on the Northern Bypass.
“We regret any disruption caused and appreciate the cooperation of all road users as we undertake these works to improve road infrastructure and enhance the overall driving experience,” said Mr Bageya Waiswa, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Works and Transport.
The works will involve the removal of the existing asphalt, base preparation, priming, and the laying of a new asphalt overlay.
During this period, the affected carriageway will be fully closed, with traffic diverted to the opposite side under the guidance of traffic police officers and road safety personnel.
Motorists have been advised to plan their journeys in advance, observe all traffic signs, and cooperate with traffic officers deployed along the route.
The Ministry has also encouraged road users to use alternative routes where possible to ease congestion.
The Kampala Northern Bypass is a key road infrastructure project designed to divert through-traffic away from Kampala’s central business district and ease congestion within the city.
The bypass links major highways leading to Masaka, Hoima, Bombo, Gayaza, and Jinja, making it a critical route for both urban and long-distance traffic.
The road was constructed in phases and includes major interchanges such as Bwaise, Sentema, Kawaala, and Namungoona, enabling smoother traffic flow around the northern edge of the city.
Since its opening, the bypass has played a vital role in reducing travel time, improving connectivity, and supporting trade and economic activity in and around Kampala.
Over the years, increasing traffic volumes and heavy usage have led to wear and tear on sections of the road, prompting the government to undertake periodic maintenance and rehabilitation works to preserve the bypass and ensure safety for road users.
The current repairs form part of these ongoing efforts to maintain the Northern Bypass as a reliable alternative route around the capital.