Ugandan Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has inaugurated the upgrade of a critical 39-km road in the Sironko District of Uganda's mountainous Eastern Region, partnering with Chinese construction firm Shandong Luqiao Group Co., Ltd.

During the ceremony on Wednesday, Nabbanja symbolically operated a grader amidst a cheering crowd, urging the community to protect construction equipment to ensure uninterrupted progress. The project, funded by the African Development Bank, aims to upgrade the Namagumba-Budadiri-Nalugugu Road from gravel to asphalt.

Samuel Muhoozi, Director of Roads and Bridges Development at the Uganda National Roads Authority, emphasized the project's significance for local farmers, enabling faster access to markets.

He expressed confidence in the Chinese firm, highlighting their proven track record in Uganda.

Jiang Chuanliang, Project Manager of Shandong Luqiao Group Co., Ltd, announced that the construction will span three years, creating over 600 local jobs. Once completed, travel time on the road will be cut from one hour to just 20 minutes.

The upgraded road will significantly benefit the district, renowned for its Arabica coffee, bananas, Irish potatoes, and fresh milk, which are in high demand in Kampala and neighboring Kenya. Additionally, it is expected to enhance community services and boost tourism by improving access to Mount Elgon National Park and Sipi Falls, popular destinations for mountain climbers.