By Diana N. Kintu
Agago: For years, poor community roads have made it difficult for many farmers in the Acholi Sub-region to transport produce to markets, increasing transport costs and contributing to post-harvest losses.
That challenge is now expected to ease after Government launched the construction of more than 69 kilometres of community access roads under the Rural Development and Food Security (RUDSEC) Project.
The project, officially launched by the Minister of State for Local Government, Hon. Justine Nameere Nsubuga, will improve road connectivity across Agago, Lamwo and Pader districts, making it easier for farmers to reach markets, access essential services and participate more effectively in local economic activities.
Implemented through a partnership between the Government of Uganda and the German Government, with financing from KfW Development Bank, the project is designed to strengthen rural livelihoods while supporting the objectives of the Parish Development Model by improving infrastructure that enables households to generate sustainable incomes.
The project, officially launched by the Minister of State for Local Government, Hon. Justine Nameere Nsubuga, will improve road connectivity across Agago, Lamwo and Pader districts
Speaking during the launch, Hon. Nameere said better roads are critical to unlocking agricultural potential in Northern Uganda.
“These roads are not just about improving transport. They are about connecting farmers to markets, reducing post-harvest losses, lowering the cost of doing business and improving livelihoods for our communities,” she said.
The project covers four road sections: Kalongo–Lomoi Sections A (15 kilometres) and B (14.9 kilometres) in Agago District, Corner Ogwec–Tenten Road (21.6 kilometres) in Lamwo District, and the Puranga–Ogonyo–Achola Stream Road (18 kilometres) in Pader District.
Hon. Nameere directed contractors to deliver quality, climate-resilient roads within the agreed timelines, warning that the Government would not tolerate delays, poor workmanship, or misuse of public funds.
She also called upon Resident District Commissioners, District Chairpersons and Chief Administrative Officers to closely supervise the works through regular inspections to ensure value for money.
Beyond construction, the Minister urged local communities to protect road equipment, support contractors and seize employment opportunities created by the project.
She further encouraged farmers to increase agricultural production and strengthen their savings groups so they are well positioned to benefit from improved market access once the roads are completed.
Hon. Nameere thanked the German Government and KfW Development Bank for supporting infrastructure development in Northern Uganda, saying the partnership is helping create opportunities for long-term economic growth and improved rural livelihoods.
Once completed, the roads are expected to reduce travel time, lower transport costs and make it easier for thousands of farming households to move agricultural produce to markets, helping communities earn more from their harvests and contribute to economic development.