Residents of Seeta Namuganga Sub-county in Mukono District have voiced frustration over the halted construction of a crossing at Matumbwe River. Nile Post reported that this Shs1.2 billion initiative, contracted to Jefflen Industrial Solutions Ltd, aims to improve transit between Kasawo and Seeta Namuganga. Although the agreement was signed in May 2026, the site remains largely empty, leaving users vulnerable to seasonal floods.
Daily routines for local traders and students have been disrupted. Nile Post noted that vendors struggle to move goods across the swollen river, often relying on motorbikes to navigate the water. Pupils frequently remove footwear to wade through muddy currents to reach their schools. James Mutyaba, a senior student, explained that he incurred Shs10,000 in extra costs over three days to access his exams via a different path after rain submerged the main route.
Abudallah Mivule, a local resident, criticized district officials for their slow response. He suggested that authorities should end the deal if the builder does not return to the site. Mivule also asked Balaam Baruhagara, the Minister of Local Government, to step in, noting that the poor crossing conditions hinder access to Kasawo Town Council’s hospitals and shops.
Herbert Lutwaama, the Mukono District Engineer, stated that the builder received all required specifications to start work. He explained that despite multiple outreach efforts, the company rarely appears at the site. Lutwaama indicated that the district may soon send a letter to the Ministry of Works and Transport, suggesting they cancel the deal and sue the firm for inaction.
The original schedule allowed the contractor 10 months to finish the job. As inactivity persists, locals warn that further delays will increase risks during wet seasons. The community is pressing officials to finalize the project to secure safer access for education, healthcare, and commerce.