Roads in Kampala’s upscale suburb of Kololo are undergoing rehabilitation, as the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77 + China summits approach. China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) has taken the initiative to lay a fresh layer of tarmac on Prince Charles Drive and Malcolm X Avenue, addressing the public outcry over the sorry state of roads in the city.
Last year, heavy rains caused widespread damage to road infrastructure, leading to impassable conditions with numerous potholes. Social media users even launched a pothole exhibition to draw attention to the issue. In preparation for the upcoming summits, efforts are being made to improve the city’s road network.
The project manager at CCCC, Mr. Xiong Pailiang, emphasized that the rehabilitation is part of the company’s corporate social responsibility program, and they undertook the repairs at no cost. The initiative aims to fix potholes and contribute to social change, demonstrating the company’s commitment to community-centric initiatives.
Maurice R Kairania, the deputy director of roads and drainage at the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), welcomed the initiative, particularly noting the long-standing drainage problem on Prince Charles Drive. KCCA has been actively working on road improvements and other infrastructure projects in preparation for the NAM and G77 summits.
While KCCA has made progress on various roads, some areas, especially in the Industrial Area, still face challenges. The Special Forces Command (SFC), responsible for the security of the President and key establishments, has secured funds to contribute to road maintenance in the city.