MBARARA, Uganda — Residents of Katete in Mbarara City are expressing concern over the poor condition of a bridge that connects Mbarara City Centre to Nyamitanga Division and Isingiro District, less than a year after it was officially reopened following repairs.
The bridge, which was reportedly reconstructed by the UPDF Engineering Brigade at a cost of between Shs 360 million and Shs 366 million, was reopened in January 2025. However, locals say it is already showing signs of deterioration, raising questions about the quality of the work done.
Several residents and business operators who rely on the structure daily say they are worried about its safety and durability.
Mpirwe Julius, a trader in the area, claimed the materials used were substandard and could not withstand long-term use.
“They used weak iron sheets that cannot last even two years. This is the bridge I use when selling my padlocks, and I fear it may soon become dangerous,” he said.
Boda boda rider Muhoozi also called for urgent intervention, urging authorities to construct a more permanent structure.
“They should come back and fix the bridge properly. This is a city, and we need better infrastructure. Look at Fort Portal; it is even smaller but looks more organized,” he said.
Residents are now appealing to the authorities to urgently assess the bridge and carry out further rehabilitation to avoid potential accidents and disruption of transport.
Efforts to get a comment from the Mbarara City Lord Mayor were unsuccessful by press time.
