Kapelebyong Leaders Grill Contractor Over Lagging 16KMs Road works

The leadership of Kapelebyong District has called on GAT Consults Limited, the contractor responsible for the 16km Acowa-Acinga road project, to expedite its construction efforts.

This call emerged during a recent site meeting held at the Acinga Sub County headquarters on Thursday, 29th May 2025, where concerns regarding significant delays were addressed.

Mr. Oule Charles, the District Engineer, explained that the contract was awarded to GAT Consults on January 23, 2025, with the expectation to commence work on February 7, 2025.

However, actual construction kicked off on February 27, 2025. With the completion deadline set for October 27, 2025, Mr. Oule expressed alarm at the current state of progress.

Mr. Oule added that installation of culverts was scheduled to begin on May 9 and conclude by June 15. Additionally, the necessary swamp raising was supposed to start on April 2 and end by April 29, both tasks remain incomplete.

“What has been accomplished so far is far less than what remains to be done. We must devise a comprehensive action plan to guide our commitment,” Mr. Oule emphasized.

Ms. Apio Jessica, the District Community Development Officer (DCDO), also echoed her disappointment at the contractor’s failure to adhere to critical contract terms, such as installing signage at the construction site, establishing two acres for oil-seed crops, and planting trees as mandated.

In her address, Ms. Rhoda Oroma, the Chief Administrative Officer, underscored the importance of meeting compliance targets to preserve the integrity of the more than two billion Ugandan shillings allocated for this project.

“Your performance impacts our trust in your capabilities. Please ensure timely payment schedules for local service tax obligations,” she insisted.

Mr. Akorikin Francis, the Kapelebyong District Chairperson, stressed the urgent need for accelerated work to alleviate the ongoing hardships faced by residents of Acinga Sub County.

He pointed out that several segments of the road remain narrow and require raising to ensure accessibility.

Deputy Resident District Commissioner Mr. Ojirot Emmy urged residents to remain vigilant during ongoing construction and issued a stern warning against any further delays from the contractor.

“We will not allow taxpayers’ money to be wasted. Let’s unite to ensure the successful completion of this project,” he reiterated.

In response, Eng. Deus Nuwagaba of GAT Consults Limited acknowledged the delays but attributed them to the necessity for thorough assessments to inform their work strategy.

“We encountered challenging conditions, including significant mud beneath the bridge and varying soil types, which require careful consideration. We are committed to delivering quality work within the next month and a half,” Eng. Deus assured the stakeholders.

He also appealed for land availability to facilitate planting trees and oil-seed crops, emphasizing the need for appropriate species selection for these initiatives.