The Soroti City Authority has officially launched the construction of a 0.5-kilometer stretch of Ongodia Road in the Senior Quarters, Soroti City West Division. The project, valued at UGX 600 million, is being implemented under the low-cost sealing tarmac program aimed at improving urban infrastructure across Uganda’s emerging cities.
The commissioning ceremony was presided over by Soroti Resident City Commissioner (RCC) John Michael Okurut, alongside city leaders, engineers, and local residents.
Present at the event were the Deputy Town Clerk, Mr. Joseph Mwesigwa, City Engineer Eng. Kairu Robert, and representatives from the construction firm, JEFFLEN Industrial Solutions Ltd.
Speaking during the event, Mr. Mwesigwa, who also chairs the Soroti City Planning Committee, said the Ongodia Road project marks a significant milestone in the city’s infrastructure development plan.
“This project will upgrade Ongodia Road from murram to low-cost tarmac, and the city will spend roughly UGX 600 million until completion,” he stated.
He thanked residents for their patience and commended the city’s technical and finance departments for drafting a convincing proposal that secured government funding.
“The funds were provided by the Government of Uganda to boost economic infrastructure development in Soroti,” he added.
The RCC, John Michael Okurut, who officially commissioned the works, emphasized the importance of accountability and community involvement throughout the project’s implementation.
“Before any project begins, it’s our duty to inform the community about what is happening. I urge residents to cooperate with engineers and protect the infrastructure once completed,” he said.
He further cautioned the contractor to deliver high-quality work, warning against shoddy construction that could lead to early road deterioration.
The project will be executed by JEFFLEN Industrial Solutions Ltd, under the supervision of Managing Director Eng. Geoffrey Iwanve Wavamuno, who revealed that the company won the contract after a competitive bidding process.
“We are set to complete the 0.5km Ongodia Road within six months, including drainage and road marking, and hand it over by May 13, 2026,” he confirmed.
Eng. Wavamuno assured residents of excellent work, citing the firm’s past experience with Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) projects.
He also pledged to provide employment opportunities to local residents during the construction period.
Soroti City West Mayor, Peter Patrick Emaru, commended the government for supporting local development and urged the contractor to cooperate with the community.
“This road connects several key areas, so its proper construction is crucial for accessibility and implementation of government programs,” he noted.
City Speaker Juliet Agonyo, representing Mayor Joshua Edogu, expressed gratitude to the government for prioritizing Soroti’s infrastructure upgrade.
“We are now transitioning from gravel to tarmac roads, befitting our city status,” she said.
She called on leaders to sensitize residents about the project to minimize misunderstandings during implementation.
“Let us engage and consult the engineers and contractors whenever changes occur. This will reduce criticism and foster community ownership,” she urged.
Ms. Agonyo also revealed that the city plans to upgrade 18 more roads under the Uganda Cities and Municipal Infrastructure Development (UCMID) program, which will include street lighting and other amenities.
RCC Okurut concluded by congratulating JEFFLEN Industrial Solutions Ltd for winning the contract, pledging to closely monitor the works to ensure adherence to approved guidelines and the Bill of Quantities (BOQ).
“This project is a clear testimony of the government’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure. As the oversight office, we shall ensure the work meets the required standards,” he affirmed.
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