Uganda, Japan Sign Contract for Yumbe 23.6km Road Construction

The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Works and Transport, has officially signed a contract with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for the construction of a 23.6-kilometer road in Yumbe District.
The project, located in the refugee hosting region of West Nile covering Arua, Koboko, and Yumbe aims to enhance transportation and trade in the area.
The contract, valued at 3.821 billion Japanese Yen, will be executed over 32 months, with an expected completion date of December 30, 2028. The grant agreement for the project was signed in 2021, and Uganda has met 99% of the required conditions, including 100% acquisition of the right of way.
During the signing ceremony held on Wednesday at the Ministry’s headquarters in Kampala, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister for Works and Transport, acknowledged JICA’s long-standing contributions to Uganda’s infrastructure.
He, however , highlighted that compensation for affected individuals is 99.9% complete, paving the way for project commencement.
“We are grateful for JICA’s continued support, not just on this road project but also on other key infrastructure developments like the Kampala Flyover. We are also in discussions with the Japanese government regarding improvements to Karuma Bridge,” Gen. Katumba Wamala stated.
JICA officials assured that local communities will be engaged in the project, providing labor opportunities while adhering to JICA’s construction guidelines. Base camp construction is already underway, and equipment mobilization has commenced.
Huda Abason Oleru, the Minister for Defense and Veteran Affairs and also the Member of Parliament for Yumbe, expressed optimism about the project’s impact on the region. She noted that the people of West Nile have long awaited this development, pledging full support for JICA’s team.
“This road will significantly boost trade, especially for small businesses within refugee communities. It will also enhance integration and economic opportunities for both host and refugee populations,” Hon. Huda stated.
The road project is part of a broader commitment between Uganda and Japan, with JICA also playing a role in the Karuma Bridge upgrade and agroforestry projects in West Nile.
Representing Uganda’s government, Eng. Waiswa Bageya, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Transport, signed the contract and pledged full support for JICA to ensure smooth implementation.
The signing marks a significant milestone in Uganda-Japan relations, reinforcing their shared vision for improved infrastructure and economic growth in the West Nile region.