President Museveni Breaks Ground on Key Wakiso Road, Emphasizes Household Wealth Alongside Infrastructure

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, accompanied by First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Museveni, on Tuesday, officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Bukasa-Ssentema-Kakiri Road. This vital 12.7-kilometre stretch, valued at UGX 56 billion, is set to significantly improve connectivity and economic activity in Wakiso District.

The project, undertaken by the Chinese company CICO, is expected to be completed within 18 months, with a target date of November 2, 2026. According to Eng. Simon Odoki, the resident contractor, progress currently stands at 4.1%.⁴ Upon its completion, the 18-meter-wide dual carriageway is anticipated to be one of the best roads in the region.

Addressing the gathering, President Museveni underscored that while infrastructure development is crucial, it must go hand-in-hand with improving the financial well-being of every household. “It is good to have a tarmac road, but what is your income at home? That is why we introduced the idea of wealth creation at the household level—because government jobs alone are not enough,” he stated.

The President further elaborated that robust household wealth creation would naturally foster job creation, complemented by the growth of industries and the expansion of service sectors such as hospitality and transport. He also highlighted the essential role of factories in adding value to Uganda’s products and generating employment opportunities, all contributing to a stronger national economy. As a gesture of support to the local community, President Museveni contributed UGX 300 million to both the Bukasa Catholic Church and the local Protestant church.

Former Vice President Gilbert Bukenya, who was present at the event, lauded the NRM government for initiating the road project, urging constituents to continue their support for President Museveni in the upcoming elections. “As a gesture of appreciation, we should support President Museveni and the NRM government,” Bukenya remarked.

Eng. Odoki extended his gratitude to the people of Wakiso for their cooperation, particularly for willingly providing the necessary right of way without demanding compensation.⁹ He credited President Museveni’s visionary leadership for the smooth progress of the project thus far.

The Bukasa-Ssentema-Kakiri Road is poised to enhance connectivity within Busiro County, facilitate trade, and drive socio-economic development not only in Wakiso District but also across wider regions.