Africa-Press – Uganda. The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Works and Transport, has today commissioned the newly constructed Saaka Bridge, a key infrastructure development located along the Kaliro–Pallisa Road in Eastern Uganda.
The project is expected to significantly enhance connectivity, improve safety for local communities, and catalyze economic growth in the region.
Funded entirely by the Government of Uganda, the Saaka Bridge was implemented under a Design and Build contract signed on May 3, 2022, between the Uganda National Roads Authority now operating under the Ministry of Works and Transport and Arab Contractors.
Construction began on July 15, 2022, with the original completion date set for January 15, 2025. However, the works were completed on February 13, 2024, nearly a year ahead of schedule.
The bridge crosses the Saaka Swamp, a 3.5-kilometre wetland located at the border between Kaliro and Pallisa Districts. With approach roads of 0.5 kilometres on either side, the crossing connects Namwiwa Sub-County in Kaliro District to Kasodo Sub-County in Pallisa District.
It is situated approximately 28 kilometres from Kaliro Town and 10 kilometres from Pallisa Town. The swamp is traversed by River Mpologoma, which drains from the Mount Elgon region and feeds into Lake Kyoga.
The newly constructed bridge spans 64 meters and is designed to last for 120 years. It replaces a hazardous canoe transport system that had long endangered lives, particularly during the rainy season.
“Saaka Bridge offers an opportunity to guarantee safety of residents within Kaliro and those of Pallisa,” said State Minister for Works, Musa Ecweru, during the commissioning.
“In the past, residents of these areas faced several unfortunate fatalities, especially during the rainy season as the available mode of transport was use of canoes.”
The project was officially commissioned by the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, who represented President Museveni at the function.
Officials say the project has already had a noticeable impact on the surrounding areas. In addition to improving transport safety and easing mobility, the bridge has spurred new business ventures such as hotels in Pallisa and Kumi, contributed to reduced vehicle operational costs, and created job opportunities for local residents.
The transformation has also improved the visual appeal of towns like Pallisa and Kumi and is supporting the growth of tourism in the region.
For More News And Analysis About Uganda Follow Africa-Press
