A bold move for better roads: KCCA's executive director takes charge!
In a recent development, Hajjat Sharifa Buzeki, the Executive Director of the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), has taken decisive action to address substandard materials used in ongoing road construction projects across Kampala. This move follows her inspection of several sites under the Greater Kampala Urban Development Programme (GKUDP), where she expressed serious concerns about the quality of materials and the slow progress of work.
KCCA is currently working on an ambitious project to construct and rehabilitate key roads spanning 19.5 kilometers within the city. These works, which began about two months ago, are part of a larger initiative to improve road infrastructure and alleviate traffic congestion in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area. However, during her inspection tour of Old Kira Road, Mukalazi Road in Kawempe, Katalemwa, and Muganzirwazza, Hajjat Buzeeki noticed significant inconsistencies in the quality of culverts being installed and delays in project execution.
"Out of the agreed 19.5 kilometers, only about 7.5 kilometers are progressing satisfactorily. The rest have major issues that we cannot accept," she emphasized.
But here's where it gets controversial... Hajjat Buzeeki revealed that engineers had encountered challenges due to CCTV cameras installed along some roads, which were obstructing construction activities. She noted, "We are coordinating with various agencies, including the police, to have these cameras temporarily relocated to expedite the work."
In a firm directive, the KCCA boss ordered the removal of the unacceptable 600-diameter culverts and their replacement with the KCCA-approved 900-diameter culverts. "We will not compromise on the standards we've set. We want these roads to stand the test of time," she asserted.
Furthermore, Hajjat Buzeeki emphasized the importance of safety, issuing a directive to contractors and engineers to ensure all open trenches and potholes are either fenced or covered immediately to prevent accidents and protect pedestrians. "Safety is our utmost priority. I expect all open spots to be secured by today to safeguard road users," she instructed.
Mr. Richard Kyobe, the head of Multiplex Limited, one of the contracted companies, acknowledged the challenges but assured KCCA of their commitment to swift corrective action. "We are aware of some setbacks, but we are dedicated to completing these roads within the specified timeframes," Mr. Kyobe said.
The road construction projects are integral to the Greater Kampala Urban Development Programme, a flagship initiative aimed at modernizing the city's transport network, improving mobility, and supporting sustainable urban growth. KCCA has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strict quality control standards, ensuring that all ongoing and future projects deliver durable and safe road infrastructure for the people of Kampala.
And this is the part most people miss... While the focus is often on the grand vision of modernizing the city, it's the attention to detail and strict enforcement of quality standards that will ultimately determine the success of these projects. Will the contractors rise to the challenge? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure: KCCA is not backing down on its commitment to quality.
What are your thoughts on this bold move by KCCA? Do you think it will set a new standard for road construction projects in Kampala? We'd love to hear your opinions in the comments below!
