Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has dismissed several senior officials in the Ministry of Works and Transport following mounting concerns over the poor state of the country’s road infrastructure and delays in the delivery of key transport projects.
The decision comes after growing public criticism over deteriorating roads, rising maintenance costs, and complaints about the quality of construction on several major highways and urban roads. In a statement, President Museveni said government officials must be held accountable for ensuring public funds allocated to infrastructure projects are used efficiently and transparently.
According to government officials, the dismissals are part of a broader effort to improve oversight of public infrastructure projects and strengthen accountability within the ministry. Authorities are also expected to review ongoing road contracts and investigate reports of negligence, poor workmanship, and possible misuse of public resources.
Uganda has invested heavily in expanding its road network in recent years as part of efforts to improve regional trade, attract investment, and support economic growth. However, concerns have persisted over the condition of some roads, with critics pointing to recurring defects, delayed project completion, and inadequate maintenance.
Transport experts say poor road infrastructure has significant economic consequences, increasing travel times, vehicle operating costs, and the movement of goods across the country. They argue that improving project supervision and enforcing quality standards will be essential to ensuring long-term value from government investments.
The President’s action has received mixed reactions. Supporters describe the dismissals as a necessary step toward restoring discipline and improving service delivery in the public sector. Others have called for broader institutional reforms, arguing that accountability should extend beyond ministry officials to include contractors and consultants responsible for delivering substandard projects.
Opposition politicians welcomed the move but urged the government to ensure that investigations are conducted transparently and that anyone found responsible for corruption or negligence is prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has assured the public that road projects across the country will continue without disruption. Officials say new leadership arrangements will be put in place to oversee ongoing construction and maintenance programmes while efforts are made to address identified shortcomings.
As Uganda continues to expand its transport infrastructure, the dismissals signal the government’s intention to demand greater accountability from public officials entrusted with managing critical national projects. The outcome of the planned reviews and investigations will be closely watched as the country seeks to improve the quality and reliability of its road network.
