Enhancing Regional Connectivity: A Major Road Project Between Rwanda and Uganda
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has recently approved an additional €217.37 million (approximately 365 billion) to support the Busega–Mpigi and Kagitumba–Kayonza–Rusumo Roads Project. This funding is aimed at improving a critical road link between Rwanda and Uganda, with the goal of boosting regional connectivity and trade.
Key Details of the Project
The project involves the upgrade of the 208-kilometre Kagitumba–Kayonza–Rusumo road in Rwanda, which was launched in 2018. The road is part of a larger multinational initiative that connects the Northern Corridor and the Central Corridor. These corridors are vital for linking multiple countries in East Africa, and the upgraded road is expected to play a significant role in socio-economic development, poverty reduction, and regional integration among the East African Community (EAC) countries.
The additional funding will be used to construct new interchanges, bridges, toll plazas, and service lanes. One of the key components is the Busega Interchange, which will connect the expressway to the Northern Bypass. These improvements are designed to reduce traffic congestion between Busega and Mpigi, a major bottleneck along the Northern Corridor that links Kampala to Kigali.
Financial and Logistical Aspects
The funding will also cover land compensation, project management, and capacity enhancement for Uganda’s Ministry of Works and Transport. This is crucial for ensuring smooth execution following recent institutional restructuring. The total cost of the upgraded Ugandan section has now reached €424.61 million, up from the original €176.26 million, reflecting an expanded project scope.
Additional components include the construction of seven new bridges and 54 kilometres of lined drainage channels. These elements are essential for the long-term sustainability and functionality of the road network.
Economic and Social Impact
Once completed, the 27.3-kilometre expressway is expected to significantly reduce travel time from over two hours to under 45 minutes. This improvement will enhance access to markets and social services for more than one million residents and traders in Busega, Mpigi, and surrounding communities.
The project is anticipated to generate over 1,200 jobs — 800 during construction and 400 during operations. At least 30% of these opportunities will be reserved for women and youth, promoting inclusive growth. Additionally, the project will empower local women through entrepreneurship and skills development initiatives linked to roadside economic opportunities.
Expert Perspective
George Makajuma, the AfDB’s Principal Transport Engineer and project task manager, emphasized the significance of the project. “This project is more than a road; it is a lifeline for communities and a gateway for trade,” he said. “The additional financing ensures that the Busega–Mpigi Expressway delivers safer, faster, and more inclusive transport for millions, unlocking the region’s economic potential.”
Timeline and Future Outlook
Construction under the additional financing is scheduled to resume in January 2026 and conclude by December 2029, with full project completion expected in 2030. This timeline reflects the complexity and scale of the project, which is expected to have a lasting impact on regional connectivity and economic development.