By Obed Kankiriho
The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has completed the construction of a new bridge connecting Nyamizi Cell in Kihanda Sub-county to Kakoni LC1 in Nyarugunda Parish, Kanungu District, aimed at improving trade, transport, and access to essential services.
Built by the UPDF Engineers Brigade at a cost of 50 million shillings, the project is among the major community support initiatives under the ongoing 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations.
For years, locals have struggled to transport agricultural produce including coffee, bananas, and cattle to markets, as well as to reach schools and health facilities. The new bridge now offers a safe and reliable route across the valley and stream that had long posed challenges, especially during the rainy season.
Maj Albert Mukama, head of the UPDF Engineers team in Kigezi, said the bridge was constructed using locally sourced materials such as timber and stones, following a cost-effective yet robust engineering model. He added that the structure meets UPDF engineering standards and is strong enough to accommodate heavy vehicles.
Mukama noted that similar bridges built by the UPDF in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo have successfully supported the movement of trucks and fuel tankers. He emphasized that, if well maintained, the new structure is expected to serve the community for at least 20 years.
Area chairperson Henry Kintu praised the UPDF for the intervention, saying the bridge has eased movement across a valley that had long been dangerous for residents. He recalled incidents where locals including school children lost their lives while attempting to cross the stream using makeshift structures during floods.
UPDF Director of Civil–Military Cooperation, Brig Gen Michael Kibuye, commended the Engineers Brigade for completing the project in under a month, adding that several similar infrastructure upgrades are being implemented in Kigezi as part of the Tarehe Sita activities.
The bridge will be officially handed over to the community on January 6, 2026.
