Kampala — The Government has secured €110.5 million (about Shs481 billion) in financing for the construction of the Kitgum–Kidepo Road, a project expected to improve transport links, promote tourism and stimulate economic activity in northern Uganda and the Karamoja sub-region.
The financing agreement was signed on Tuesday by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Mr Henry Musasizi, and the Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Uganda, Mr Sanjay Rughani.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Mr Musasizi said the funding demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure as a catalyst for economic transformation.
“The 115.8-kilometre Kitgum–Kidepo Road will improve connectivity, reduce transport costs and strengthen regional trade. It will also support the implementation of the Air Transport Management System and unlock investment opportunities in northern Uganda and Karamoja,” he said.
According to the minister, the road will improve access to major investments in the region, including the proposed Yaobai Cement and Clinker Factory in Moroto, and enhance connectivity to Kidepo Valley National Park.
He added that the project will complement the planned Kidepo International Airport, which is expected to strengthen tourism and facilitate investment in the region.
“Today’s signing is not simply about financing a road. It is about investing in Uganda’s future. It is about connecting farmers to markets, industries to raw materials, tourists to destinations and businesses to opportunity,” Mr Musasizi said.
Standard Chartered Bank Uganda Chief Executive Officer Sanjay Rughani described the project as a strategic investment aligned with the country’s development priorities.
“The Kitgum–Kidepo Road is a strategic investment that reinforces our long-term role as a trusted corporate and investment bank while supporting government priorities that are both economically viable and developmentally impactful,” Mr Rughani said.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by the Minister of Works and Transport, Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Tom Butime, British High Commissioner to Uganda Lisa Chesney and other government officials.
Once completed, the 115.8-kilometre road is expected to improve access to markets, lower transport costs, support tourism to Kidepo Valley National Park and facilitate trade and investment across northern Uganda and the Karamoja sub-region.