President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially commissioned the long-awaited construction of the Kabale–Lake Bunyonyi tourism road, sparking excitement among tourism stakeholders, local leaders, and residents in southwestern Uganda.
The 8.4-kilometre road segment is part of the larger Kabale–Lake Bunyonyi–Kisoro–Mgahinga Roads Upgrading Project, with an estimated total cost of UGX 122 billion. The project is jointly funded by the Government of Uganda and the African Development Bank.
Representing the President at the official groundbreaking ceremony, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Deputy Speaker of Parliament, emphasized the project’s strategic role under the National Development Plan III (2020/21–2024/25), which identifies infrastructure as a key driver of economic transformation.
In his message, President Museveni described the Kabale–Lake Bunyonyi road as vital for unlocking the region’s tourism and socio-economic potential. Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda’s most iconic natural attractions, is renowned for its fresh waters, mild climate, terraced hills, and 29 scenic islands. The area is a popular retreat for tourists, especially after gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Regarding the Kisoro–Mgahinga road, the President highlighted its importance in linking several top tourism attractions, including gorilla habitats, golden monkey territories, the Batwa forest trail, and hiking routes to the peaks of Mounts Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo. He also underscored its proximity to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Beyond tourism, President Museveni noted that the upgraded road infrastructure will enhance intermodal connectivity, linking road networks with inland water transport on Lake Bunyonyi. This, he said, will improve access to the lake’s islands, strengthen agricultural supply chains, and drive socio-economic development in Kabale, Kisoro, and the wider southwestern region.
The construction is being undertaken by Samcrete Egypt Engineers and Contractors, an Egyptian firm commended by the President for its expertise. He urged local communities to take advantage of the economic opportunities arising from the project, through employment, supply of materials, and provision of services, to improve household incomes and support national development goals.
Rt. Hon. Tayebwa called on local investors and tourism operators to enhance the quality of their services to attract high-value travelers who can significantly contribute to the region’s economy. He revealed that the government has increased investment in the tourism sector and plans to establish dedicated tourism marketing desks at Ugandan embassies worldwide.
He also noted that the upcoming financial year will include increased funding for national security, an essential pillar for sustaining tourism growth.
Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, issued a stern warning to the contractor, stressing the need for timely and high-quality work. He described the project as a “test case” for future infrastructure projects in the region.
Gen. Katumba outlined additional components of the project, including: Four modern landing sites, Two roadside market, a facility for processing and storing farm produce, Two ferries for Lake Bunyonyi and a fully equipped search and rescue boat with navigation aids
He urged the contractor to implement all components concurrently to ensure integrated and timely project completion.
Kabale District LC5 Chairperson, Nelson Nshangabasheija, welcomed the development, describing it as a gateway to some of Uganda’s premier tourist destinations. He encouraged the use of local labor and materials to ensure that residents benefit directly from the project.
