By Diana N.Kintu
The Minister of State for Transport has commissioned the Kyenyonga–Kikaada Hybrid Trail Bridge in Kakumiro District, marking a significant milestone in improving rural connectivity and access to essential services for local communities.
The newly completed bridge connects Bwanswa and Kasambya sub-counties, ending years of transport challenges faced by residents who previously struggled to cross River Katerere, particularly during the rainy seasons.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Minister described the project as more than a physical structure, noting that it represents government’s continued commitment to inclusive development and improved livelihoods in rural areas.
“Today, we are not merely commissioning a structure; we are restoring dignity, enhancing productivity, and ensuring communities are not left behind,” she said.
The Minister emphasised that infrastructure development has remained a central pillar of Uganda’s socio-economic transformation agenda since 1986, as highlighted in the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Manifesto. She explained that improved rural connectivity plays a critical role in enabling communities to access markets, education and healthcare services, while supporting the effective implementation of government programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM).
Constructed through a partnership between Government and Bridges to Prosperity (B2P), the 63-metre hybrid trail bridge spans River Katerere and directly serves the villages of Kyenyonga, Kihurumba and Kikaada. Construction works commenced in April 2025 and were completed in October 2025.
According to the Minister, the collaboration between Government and Bridges to Prosperity has significantly contributed to expanding safe rural transport infrastructure across the country. Over the past nine years, the partnership has delivered 34 trail bridges, particularly within the Greater Mt Elgon sub-region, improving mobility for isolated communities.
She added that beyond infrastructure delivery, the partnership has strengthened institutional capacity through training of local private sector firms, while also supporting the development of bridge design manuals and maintenance guidelines aimed at ensuring sustainability of rural infrastructure projects.
Local leaders welcomed the commissioning of the bridge, describing it as a lifeline that will greatly benefit school-going children, expectant mothers seeking health services, and farmers transporting agricultural produce to markets.
Residents noted that crossing the river had previously posed serious safety risks, especially for children and traders, often disrupting education, healthcare access and economic activities during periods of heavy rainfall.
The Minister urged Kakumiro District Local Government to establish a functional Operation and Maintenance Committee to oversee proper utilisation and protection of the bridge. She cautioned communities against vandalism and misuse, stressing that long-term benefits depend on collective responsibility.
“Infrastructure must be protected and maintained to deliver lasting value. Sustainability is a shared responsibility,” she emphasised.
She further expressed appreciation to Bridges to Prosperity, district leaders, engineers, technical teams and community members whose participation contributed to the successful completion of the project.
The Kyenyonga–Kikaada Hybrid Trail Bridge is expected to significantly improve safety, ease movement of people and goods, and enhance economic participation for thousands of residents in Kakumiro District. The project aligns with government efforts to strengthen rural infrastructure as a catalyst for local development and poverty reduction.
Officials said improved connectivity will not only reduce travel time but also open up opportunities for trade, service delivery and social integration, ultimately contributing to sustainable socio-economic growth in the district.