As of March 2025, many roads in Kampala remain in poor condition, characterized by numerous potholes and deteriorating surfaces. The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has acknowledged these challenges, attributing them to a limited budget for maintenance. KCCA’s management revealed that the annual budget required to effectively maintain the city’s roads is between UGX 75 to 100 billion. However, only UGX 26 billion is allocated for this purpose, leading to delays in repairs and maintenance.
- Kampala City Roads and Bridges Upgrading Project (KCRBUP): Launched in March 2023, this project aims to reconstruct over 270 km of roads across Kampala. Funded by the UK Export Finance (UKEF) to the tune of £250 million, with Colas UK as the contractor, the project targets critical areas such as Kololo, Nakasero, and Bugolobi. The initiative also includes the construction of flyovers, bridges, and improved drainage systems
- Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project (KCRRP): This project, funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB) with an investment of US$288 million, aims to enhance the city’s road network to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality. However, progress has been slower than anticipated. As of September 2024, only about 28% of the planned 69 km of roadworks had been completed, leading to a 40-month extension of the project timeline, now expected to conclude in 2027.
Kampala’s road infrastructure issues are further exacerbated by flooding, particularly during the rainy seasons. The city’s drainage systems are often inadequate, leading to waterlogging and road damage. This not only hampers transportation but also poses health risks and disrupts daily activities. KCCA has acknowledged the need for improved drainage solutions to mitigate flooding and is working on integrating better drainage systems within road rehabilitation project
While significant efforts are underway to revamp Kampala’s road infrastructure, challenges persist. Continued investment, efficient project implementation, and enhanced drainage solutions are crucial to transforming the city’s transportation landscape. Residents and commuters are encouraged to stay informed about ongoing projects and anticipate improvements in the coming years
