Summary:
- The primary concerns center around the collapse of the Karubanda-Kiringa Bridge in September 2022 and the sluggish rehabilitation of district roads, despite increased government funding for such projects.
KANUNGU: The state of public infrastructure and leadership accountability in Kinkizi East Constituency, Kanungu District, has sparked widespread debate among residents and on social media.
The primary concerns center around the collapse of the Karubanda-Kiringa Bridge in September 2022 and the sluggish rehabilitation of district roads, despite increased government funding for such projects.
Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the area Member of Parliament and Minister of ICT and National Guidance, has responded to the concerns, highlighting both his efforts and frustrations.
“I visited the site immediately after the bridge collapsed and personally funded the construction of a temporary bridge for pedestrians and motorcycles. I also assured residents that the bridge would be reconstructed, as funds for such projects are allocated at the district level. However, when I revisited the area last Sunday, I found the road neglected, and local leaders claimed the matter had been forwarded to the central government. This is not true,” Dr. Baryomunsi stated.
He disclosed that he has formally written to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), instructing the district to utilize the available funds to reconstruct the bridge and grade the road.
He criticized local leaders for mismanaging resources and politicizing infrastructure challenges instead of addressing the community’s needs.
Residents have also voiced their frustrations, questioning the district leadership’s slow response despite increased road maintenance funding.
“Road funding has increased from less than 500 million shillings to over 1 billion, yet the previous allocation remains unutilized. What excuse do they have for failing to rehabilitate and construct roads?” one resident asked.
The Resident added “Leadership in this district is failing us. Even with more funds, we see no action—only excuses. Why aren’t these roads being fixed?”
On social media, some defended MPs, citing systemic challenges within government structures.
“When prominent leaders visit, administrators often hide the truth and showcase only the best areas, like the headmaster’s office or a clean toilet,” one commenter noted.
Nevertheless, Minister Baryomunsi reassured residents of his commitment to ensuring government funds are effectively utilized for development.
He also stressed the importance of holding local leaders accountable for service delivery and urged them to stop politicizing infrastructure issues.
“Our focus must remain on serving the people and solving their problems. Development cannot be achieved when resources are mismanaged, and leaders fail to act,” he concluded.
