Karuma-Kamdini Road Collapse Paralyzes Northern Trade Route
Heavy rains wash out a major section of Uganda’s northern corridor, forcing diversions that add 42 km to truck routes and threaten regional trade.
Karuma-Kamdini road collapse disrupts Uganda’s key trade corridor
A collapsed section of the Karuma-Kamdini Highway forces heavy-truck diversions and threatens Uganda’s trade flow to South Sudan and the DRC.
KAMDINI / LIRA, UGANDA. Transporters and travellers along the Karuma-Kamdini Highway are facing massive disruptions after a section of the road collapsed following days of torrential rain.
The damaged stretch—located about 7 km from Karuma Bridge—has left a gaping depression in the tarmac, prompting the Ministry of Works and Transport to immediately halt traffic and divert heavy trucks via the Karuma–Masindi Port–Apac route. The diversion adds nearly 42 km to the journey for long-haul drivers ferrying goods to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“This route is a lifeline for northern Uganda’s economy,” said Eng. Bageya Waiswa, Permanent Secretary at the Works Ministry. “We are moving equipment on-site and expect temporary restoration within two weeks, weather permitting.”
Transport unions have warned of potential increases in freight and passenger fares due to higher fuel consumption and delays. Several bus operators have adjusted timetables, and roadside traders in Kamdini Town say customer numbers have dropped sharply since Sunday.
Environmentalists link the collapse to poor drainage maintenance and heavier-than-average October rainfall. The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has dispatched engineers to carry out a structural assessment of nearby bridges.
Impact
Economic: Fuel and logistics companies predict a 10–15 % rise in haulage costs.
Safety: Smaller vehicles have been advised to avoid night travel due to weakened shoulders.
Regional: South Sudan importers warn of temporary shortages of perishable goods.
