By Our Reporter
Uganda has officially embarked on a transformative regional infrastructure project, partnering with South Sudan and the Central African Republic (CAR) to construct a 1,100-kilometre road network aimed at enhancing trade, transportation, and integration across the three nations.
The announcement was made by President Yoweri Museveni at the State Lodge in Fort Portal, following a high-level Tripartite meeting in Kampala that brought together top officials from the participating countries.
The proposed network includes critical trade corridors originating in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, and extending through Karuma, Arua, and Oraba into South Sudan via Kaya and Yeyi, continuing on to Juba. Additional linkages will connect Juba to CAR through key towns including Mundri, Maridi, Yambio, Yubu, Ezo, Bambouti, Obo, and Sibuti. Another corridor will link Ezo to Source Yubu and Bambouti, facilitating access between South Sudan and CAR.
Uganda’s Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, who chaired the three-day meeting, emphasized the project’s potential to reshape the region’s economic landscape.
“This robust infrastructure development project will not only improve transportation but also act as a catalyst for trade, economic growth, and regional security,” Gen. Katumba stated.
The ministers from the three nations agreed to a phased implementation approach and pledged to jointly mobilize financing from international development partners. They described the road network as a vital regional trade corridor that will unlock new commercial opportunities while strengthening diplomatic and economic ties.
To guide the initiative, the parties formed a Tripartite Technical Committee (TTC) comprising officials from the ministries of Transport, Infrastructure, Defense, Foreign Affairs, Internal Affairs, and offices of the Solicitor General in each country. The TTC will oversee joint inspections, finalize road alignments, conduct feasibility studies, and develop a coordinated implementation framework.
In a further boost to regional connectivity, Uganda and CAR signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), along with a Memorandum of Understanding to operationalize it. The agreement will enable Uganda Airlines to commence direct flights to CAR, cutting travel time and enhancing bilateral cooperation.
CAR’s Minister for Equipment and Public Works, Hon. Eric Mathieu Rokosse-Kamot, welcomed the developments, saying the road project will significantly ease transportation challenges and stimulate commerce.
South Sudan’s Minister for Roads and Bridges, Hon. Simon Mijok Mijak, echoed similar sentiments, noting the project’s potential to bolster regional security and economic integration.
The meeting was attended by senior government officials, including Uganda’s Solicitor General, Mr. Pius Perry Biribonwoha, as well as ambassadors from South Sudan and CAR. The delegates praised the visionary leadership of the heads of state in prioritizing infrastructure development and cross-border collaboration.
President Museveni expressed confidence that the initiative would bring about lasting improvements in connectivity, regional security, and economic resilience.
“This is a major step toward transformative infrastructure, sustainable economic growth, and stronger regional cooperation,” Museveni said.
As the ambitious road and aviation projects advance, Uganda, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic are setting a new precedent for regional integration, laying the foundation for a more connected and prosperous Central and East Africa.
