Uganda Accelerates Road Connectivity with New €217 Million Boost for the Busega–Mpigi Expressway
A critical Corridor Reborn
Kampala, Uganda
Uganda has received a fresh €217.37 million from the African Development Bank to complete the long-delayed Busega–Mpigi Expressway. The approval clears the path for construction to resume in early 2026, offering relief to commuters who have endured years of congestion along one of Kampala’s busiest transport corridors. Stretching 27.3 kilometres, the expressway links Busega on the city’s western edge to Mpigi Town, with a new Busega interchange connecting to the Northern Bypass, multiple bridges, toll plazas, and service lanes that promise to transform regional mobility.
For traders and residents along the route, the implications are immediate. Travel time between Busega and Mpigi, which often exceeds two hours, is projected to drop to under 45 minutes once the expressway is operational. This is expected to facilitate smoother flow of goods, better access to markets, and broader economic opportunities for over a million people living near the corridor.
Why It Matters
The Busega–Mpigi Expressway is more than just a road. It represents a strategic investment in Uganda’s economic future. By reducing travel time and transport costs, it enhances trade, improves access to social services, and unlocks opportunities for local communities. The project also signals the government’s commitment to modern infrastructure that supports sustainable urban and regional growth. Internationally, the project reinforces Uganda’s ability to attract and deploy development financing effectively, strengthening confidence in the country’s transport sector.
What to Watch
The success of the expressway will hinge on timely implementation. Construction quality and adherence to project timelines will be critical. Monitoring traffic flow and evaluating the economic impact on surrounding communities will provide early indications of the project’s effectiveness. Additionally, the integration of supporting infrastructure, such as road safety measures, service lanes, and drainage systems, will determine the long-term durability and impact of the expressway.
