Govt signs Shs481b deal to tarmac Kitgum-Kidepo road National Jun 30
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The government has signed a €110.5 million, about Shs481 billion, financing agreement with Standard Chartered Bank Uganda to upgrade the 115.8-kilometre Kitgum-Kidepo Road, a project officials say will open up Northern Uganda and Karamoja to markets, tourism and industry.
Finance Minister Henry Musasizi and Standard Chartered Uganda Chief Executive Sanjay Rughani signed the deal on Tuesday in Kampala. The road runs from Kitgum Town to Kidepo Valley National Park, one of the country’s most remote but high-potential tourism corridors.
“This financing package demonstrates our shared commitment to improving connectivity and unlocking the economic potential of Northern Uganda and the Karamoja sub-region,” Musasizi said during the signing.
According to the Ministry of Finance, the project will cut transport costs, reduce travel time, and strengthen cross-border trade with South Sudan. Musasizi added that it will also support the implementation of the Agro-Industrialisation and Tourism, Manufacturing and Services [ATMS] programme under NDP IV.
Linking mines, factories and parks The minister said the road is designed to serve more than commuter traffic. It will connect major new investments in the region, including the Yaobai Cement and Clinker Factory, a $300 million, about Shs1.14 trillion, plant in Moroto. It will also improve access to Kidepo Valley National Park and complement the planned $72 million, Shs273.6 billion, Kidepo International Airport.
Rughani said the bank’s involvement reflects confidence in government priorities that are “both economically viable and developmentally impactful”.
Why it matters
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