Mbarara City residents and a section of local leaders are protesting the Shs360 million allocated by Mbarara City Council for the renovation of Katete Bridge, which has already shown signs of damage just three days after its partial reopening.
The bridge was partially commissioned for traffic on January 8th after being closed for 10 months, but concerns have emerged regarding the quality of the renovation and whether it justifies the amount of money spent.
The bridge was renovated by the UPDF Engineering Brigade, but locals argue that the current state of the bridge does not align with the funds allocated. “We meticulously recorded all materials used on this bridge,” said Kajubi Moses, City Councillor for Katete. “We used only 32 iron plates, nuts, and 86 pieces of timber. A realistic estimate of the total cost should not exceed Shs50 million.”
Katete Bridge is a vital connection between Mbarara City’s business district, Katete Town, and parts of Isingiro District. The bridge was closed to traffic ten months ago due to safety concerns, particularly the risk of sinking into River Rwizi.
Following public outcry, the government allocated Shs360 million for its renovation, and Mbarara City authorities contracted the UPDF Engineering Brigade, which completed the project within a month—well ahead of the initial three-month timeline stated in the contract.
Despite the expedited work, locals and leaders have expressed outrage, alleging corruption and misappropriation of public funds. “This is a disgrace to Mbarara City leaders and the UPDF,” declared Saverino Sansa, a local resident. “Initially, all vehicles could use this bridge. Now, restrictions have been imposed, raising serious questions about the project’s cost-effectiveness.”
Catherine Kamwine, the Mbarara Resident City Commissioner, emphasized the need for further assessments before fully commissioning the bridge. “We have not fully commissioned the bridge because we need to thoroughly evaluate its strength. However, we have allowed limited traffic to use it while we conduct further inspections,” Kamwine explained during a public address at the bridge site.
Before its closure, the bridge accommodated all vehicles, including those with heavy axle loads. However, post-renovation, the UPDF has imposed restrictions on certain vehicle types, which has further fueled public discontent. Residents have called for anti-corruption agencies to investigate the matter. “We urge President Museveni and all anti-corruption agencies to investigate this alleged corruption, as the people of Mbarara are deeply dissatisfied,” demanded Tamale Ismail, another local resident.
Mbarara City South Mayor Jomo Mugabi also questioned the city authorities regarding the expenditure of the remaining funds. “Mr. City Mayor (Kakyebezi), we also understand basic arithmetic,” Mugabi remarked, drawing laughter from the crowd. “I believe you are listening; I will leave it at that.”
Mayor Kakyebezi explained that the initial budget for the renovation was Shs500 million, but the city council chose to work with the UPDF to reduce costs. “The remaining funds from this project will be used for the renovation of Kanyeyite Bridge, which connects Kakoba Division to Nyamitanga through Karugangama,” Kakyebezi added.
Currently, the bridge remains open for limited traffic as authorities continue to assess its condition.
