Summary:
- The Special Forces Command Construction Regiment (SFCCR) has been awarded a Shs2 billion contract by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to repair and maintain roads in Kampala’s central business district, following a directive from President Museveni in June, with the SFCCR facing challenges such as weather disruptions and addressing drainage issues during the project.
Kampala, Uganda | THE BLACK EXAMINER | The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has awarded a Shs2 billion contract to the Special Forces Command Construction Regiment (SFCCR) for the maintenance of roads in the central business district of Kampala.
According to Lt Kikomeko Kigongo, the assistant project manager, the SFCCR is currently engaged in repairing sections, pavements, and potholes in selected areas of Kampala City. The project aims to address potholes and maintain roads within a two-month timeframe.
Lt Eng Kikomeko mentioned that the project, which began two weeks ago, is scheduled to be completed in 45 days. However, adverse weather conditions have posed challenges, with only four days of practical work completed due to rain-related disruptions.
In June, President Museveni directed the SFCCR to take over the maintenance of city roads, following a request from his son and senior advisor, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba. Gen Muhoozi had identified deteriorating roads in May and pledged to utilize SFCCR units to improve them.
The SFCCR’s scope of work encompasses repairing 12,000 square meters of potholes, 10,000 square meters of section repairs, and various pavement projects. Lt Eng Kikomeko explained that the low cost of Shs2 billion is attributed to government ownership of equipment and army personnel, resulting in reduced labor and equipment expenses.
The construction regiment is actively working on roads in Lower Kololo, Kiyembe Lane, Snay Bin Road, Old Kampala Ring, Fort Road, Nsala Road, School Road, and other locations in Kampala Central Division.
Despite progress, the lack of drainage on certain roads has emerged as a challenge. Lt Eng Kikomeko highlighted that drainage is not within their project scope, and they are collaborating with the KCCA to address drainage issues.
In response to earlier concerns, KCCA Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago had suggested that the SFCCR was exclusively focusing on potholes along the presidential route. However, the SFCCR leadership denied this claim.
Mr. Balimwezo Nsubuga, chairman of the Roads Committee in KCCA and MP Nakawa East, raised questions about the use of KCCA vehicles and equipment by the SFCCR. He noted that while the SFCCR received an advance payment of Shs600 million out of the total Shs2 billion, KCCA’s equipment was reportedly being utilized in the project.
Sources: Daily Monitor
