Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo have relaunched the construction of the Kasindi to Beni road which had stalled for almost one year due to political and technical challenges.
The function was presided over by the Minister of Works and Transport, General Edward Katumba Wamala, together with the new Provincial Governor of Beni General Somo Evariste.
According to Susan Kataike, the Head of Communications at the Ministry of Works and Transport, the two delegations met on Wednesday at the Mpondwe Border and later drove from Kasindi to Beni where a stakeholders engagement was held with political, technical and administrative leaders of Beni to resolve pertinent issues concerning the project.
She noted that a commission was set up to fastback the right of way and relocation of utilities for the contractor.
“Another commission was set up to handle compensation and any land-related challenges. A tax waiver was also agreed upon for the contractor for all road construction materials entering DRC,” Kataike noted.
Adding, “The governor confirmed their commitment to the completion of the project for the good of both countries and the region.”
General Wamala appreciated the governor and the team for solving the issues in a heartbeat. The contractor resumes construction in a few days.
Commenting on the development, Sarah Kagingo, Vice Chair of Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), said the Kasindi-Beni road, part of the East African Northern Corridor, will boost travel and trade between Uganda and the DR Congo, linking to Central African Republic through the Kisangani highway.
“Transnational infrastructure is key to market integration, expanding opportunities for businesses, especially Made in Africa products,” Kagingo noted.