(Tororo) – On October 14, 2024, the Government of Uganda signed a €2.7 billion (approximately $2.86 billion) contract with Turkish construction company Yapi Merkezi to build the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Malaba to Kampala. This project is set to improve transportation infrastructure in the country, with the line expected to enhance regional connectivity and trade.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni formally launched the construction of the 272 kilometer railway line at a ceremony held in Tororo, Eastern Uganda. The event was attended by government officials, local leaders, and representatives from Yapi Merkezi.
The railway line will run from Malaba, a key border town on Uganda’s eastern edge, to Kampala, the capital city. Once completed, the project is expected to contribute to the modernization of Uganda’s transport system, offering a faster and more efficient means of moving goods and passengers between the two cities.
The construction is expected to take 48 months, with all related infrastructure to be completed within this timeframe. The railway will also include the construction of stations, bridges, and other supporting structures necessary for a fully operational line.
Yapi Merkezi, which is known for its expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects, will be responsible for the entire construction process. The Turkish company has worked on several major railway and civil engineering projects globally, providing the expertise needed to complete this ambitious project on time.
Once operational, the Malaba-Kampala Standard Gauge Railway is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two cities, potentially lowering transportation costs for goods and passengers. It will also support Uganda’s economic growth by improving trade connectivity with neighboring countries.
The government has highlighted that this project is a key part of its broader plan to upgrade the country’s infrastructure, which includes roads, airports, and other rail links, aiming to transform Uganda into a regional transport hub.
Key Details of the Malaba-Kampala Railway Project
| Project Name | Malaba-Kampala Standard Gauge Railway |
|---|---|
| Contract Value | €2.7 billion (~$2.86 billion) |
| Contractor | Yapi Merkezi (Turkish construction company) |
| Length of Railway | 272 kilometers |
| Expected Completion Time | 48 months (4 years) |
| Main Objective | Enhance transportation, trade, and regional connectivity |
| Key Locations | Malaba to Kampala |
