The Member of Parliament for Pingire County and Chairperson of the Roads Committee in Serere District, Hon. Fred Opolot, has today officially commissioned the construction of the Olwa-Obangin-Otoba road in Labor Sub-county.
The 13-kilometer road project, valued at Uganda Shillings 259,822,000, is expected to enhance connectivity and boost agricultural trade in the region.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony held in Obangin Village, Labor Sub-county, Opolot emphasized the Ugandan government’s commitment to road and health infrastructure as key drivers of development.
“The Government of Uganda prioritizes the construction of roads and health facilities because we know that they contribute a lot to the development of our people,” Opolot stated.
“I therefore urge you to use the roads we are building to develop your communities.”
The new road will link farming communities in Labor and Pingire sub-counties to major markets such as the Kasilo Cattle Market, improving transportation of agricultural produce and livestock.
Opolot also took the opportunity to remind road users, particularly boda boda riders, to prioritize safety by wearing helmets and obeying traffic rules.
He, alongside other MPs, continues to advocate for the reinstatement of the UGX 700 million road fund, which was previously allocated to local governments to maintain and construct rural roads.
He further issued a stern warning to the contractor, advising against any misconduct such as engaging underage girls in inappropriate relationships during the construction works.
Local leaders hailed the initiative as a timely intervention that will increase incomes and improve access to social services.
Mr. Enokokin Simon, the LCI Chairperson of Obangin Village, said the project would drastically reduce the cost of transporting goods to market.
“For many years, our farmers have struggled with poor roads. This new road brings hope to our community,” he said.
Mr. Robert Ikwarit, LC3 Chairperson of Pingire Sub-county, extended his appreciation to the district leadership, especially MP Fred Opolot and Serere District Woman MP and State Minister for Fisheries, Hellen Adoa, for supporting the council’s resolution to allocate funds for the project.
Ikwarit also cautioned the community to safeguard public resources and be vigilant against theft of fuel and spare parts during the construction period.
“Let us protect what is ours. Report anyone who tampers with the road project,” Ikwarit urged.
Otira Gabriel Olaboro, the Principal Assistant Secretary of Serere District, lauded the central government for the UGX 1 billion support to districts to improve road infrastructure. He called on all stakeholders to ensure the success of the project.
According to Egongu John Robert, an assistant Engineer at Serere District Local Government, the road works are expected to be completed within one month, weather permitting.
Other key road projects underway in the district include the 12.5 km, Okulukulun–Kadungulu–Iruko–Kagwara road in Kasilo County, funded at UGX 250,016,000, and 15 km of roadwork in Serere County, covering routes like Adoku–Amakio, Amakio–Ojara–Sapir, and Ongiji–Opure.
In total, Serere District is investing over UGX 850 million in improving road infrastructure this financial year.
Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Adiama called on citizens to treat the new road as a tool for transformation, not misuse.
“Let us not take these developments for granted. Use the road to uplift your families and communities,” she urged.
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