By Sharon Basilika | Mukono
Residents of Seeta-Namuganga in Mukono District have raised concerns over delays in the construction works at Matumbwe River, saying the stalled project has disrupted transport and put schoolchildren at risk.
The works, valued at approximately Shs1.2 billion, were reportedly awarded to Jeflin Construction Company. However, residents say the contractor has made little progress, leaving the river crossing difficult to use, particularly during the rainy season.
For the past five months, flooding at the crossing has affected traders, schoolchildren and other residents travelling between Seeta-Namuganga and neighbouring Kasaawo.
Residents have also accused district leaders of failing to adequately supervise the project, questioning why the works have remained incomplete despite the funds allocated.
Traders say the poor state of the crossing has made it difficult to transport goods to markets, affecting their businesses.
Schoolchildren are also struggling to cross the river, with some forced to remove their shoes and wade through dirty water on their way to school.
Residents fear the situation could become more dangerous as the rains continue and have appealed to the district authorities to intervene.
Mukono District Engineer Herbert Lutwama acknowledged the delays, saying the contractor had been provided with the necessary requirements to undertake the works.
Lutwama said the district had made several attempts to get the contractor back on site without success.
He said the district had consequently decided to terminate the contract and pursue the matter through legal channels.
Residents have asked the district to ensure that another contractor completes the outstanding works to restore access between the affected communities.
They also want closer supervision of government-funded projects to prevent similar delays.
