The Stalled Security Road Project in Uganda
The construction of a 77km security road stretching between Agago and Kitgum districts has faced significant delays, three months after it commenced. This project was initiated as part of President Museveni’s May 2023 Executive Order No. 3, which directed the development of security roads in Lango and Acholi sub-regions to curb cattle rustling. The initiative also extended to Karamoja Sub-region, with plans for roads from Lake Bisina to Abim District and to Orom Sub-County in Kitgum District, as well as along the Kenya border from Amudat District to Mount Moroto.
According to local authorities, between 2021 and June 2024, cattle rustlers stole 1,076 heads of cattle and 480 goats from Namukora and Orom sub-counties in the Acholi sub-region. The raids also resulted in several deaths and injuries, highlighting the urgent need for improved security infrastructure.
In late March 2025, the government launched the construction of the 77-km security road at Odom East Village, Adilang Sub-County in Agago District. The initial commitment included Shs800 million, with Shs500 million already released. An additional Shs300 million was expected to be allocated in the next financial quarter.
However, the project has encountered setbacks. By early July, works on the security road had stalled, with tall grass covering sections of the once six-metre wide road. Locals reported that the contractor started withdrawing equipment and personnel from the area by the end of May, two months into the project. Mr Remijio Okello, a resident of Odom East village, stated that they reported the withdrawal to district leaders, but no explanation was provided.
“The kick-off of the construction of the first phase of the security road offers fresh hopes. The raiders are always armed to the teeth as they roam villages, mostly at night, looking for cattle; they even attack community kraals. Now that the works have stalled, we don’t know what would happen any moment,” he added.
The stalled project has dampened hopes for a boost in livestock farming and security in the area. Mr Mohamed Okwir, the Adilang Sub-county chairman, confirmed the suspension of the road construction, stating that their attempts to seek answers from the district authorities were futile. He accused the authorities of lacking the political will to complete the project and questioned the allocation of funds.
“How do you allocate less than Shs1b for works that require more than Shs10b? What they gave alone for the works was less than what was required for fuelling the equipment alone,” Mr Okwir said, urging the government to provide funds for the completion of the project.
Mr Kite Ojok, the Lira-Kato Sub-county chairman, expressed similar concerns. “This road was meant to facilitate motorised patrols and enable the army to move faster and stop raids. We ask the government to facilitate the army so that they can do their work to secure this area,” he said. However, he warned that without more security personnel, displaced households would not be able to return to their land.
Ms Susan Akot Moro, the Agago deputy resident district commissioner, told the Daily Monitor that the works were halted due to a shortage of funds. “Works on that road stalled because the money allocated was not enough, but we have learnt from the district’s technical team that more funds are currently being processed,” she said. She added that the resumption of the project depends on processes managed by the responsible ministries.
Key Concerns and Calls for Action
- Funding Issues: The initial allocation of Shs800 million for the 77-km road was insufficient, according to local officials. The funds were criticized for being inadequate, especially given the scale of the project.
- Lack of Transparency: Residents and local leaders have expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the government and contractors regarding the project’s status.
- Security Needs: The road is intended to enhance security by enabling faster movement of military and police forces, which could help prevent cattle rustling and reduce violence in the region.
- Community Impact: The stalled project has left many communities in uncertainty, with fears that the absence of security measures could lead to further displacement and loss of livelihoods.
As the situation unfolds, there is a growing demand for transparency, accountability, and increased funding to ensure the successful completion of the security road. The government must address these concerns to restore hope and stability in the affected regions.