Mega Fm & Agency
The old Karuma Bridge will remain open to motorists during the construction of a new cable-stayed bridge across the Victoria Nile, the Ministry of Works and Transport has said.
Emmanuel Ainebyoona, the Ministry’s Senior Communications Officer, said construction works commenced on October 1, 2026, with the contractor currently mobilising equipment and setting out the work.
Speaking to Mega Fm in an interview on Wednesday, Ainebyoona said the existing bridge will remain operational to facilitate traffic flow, provide an alternative route during emergencies and serve as a tourist attraction.
Government awarded the construction contract to Japanese firm Zenitaka Corporation in July this year at a cost of 98 billion Shillings.
Oriental Consultants Global was contracted to provide consultancy and supervision services for the three-year project, which is expected to improve connectivity to and from Northern Uganda.
In a statement issued earlier on Wednesday, Ainebyoona said that the Ministry was committed to delivering a safe and resilient bridge.
The existing Karuma Bridge, which is now 64 years old, was originally designed to have a lifespan of 50 years.
