Kitgum Commissions Shs 245 Million Akilo–Locom Road Upgrade Under LoCAL Project
Kitgum District has registered another milestone in infrastructure development following the official commissioning of the 1.8-kilometre spot improvement of the Akilo–Locom Road network.
The project, worth Shs 245,374,441, was implemented with support from the LoCAL Project, funded by the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) in partnership with the Ministry of Water and Environment and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
The works were executed by Giant Plum Enterprises (U) Limited, marking a significant step toward improving mobility and connectivity within the district.
Government Commended for Infrastructure Investment
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Walter Komakech Oyoo, applauded the Government of Uganda for prioritizing infrastructure development through increased funding toward road rehabilitation.
He equally commended the leadership of Kitgum District Local Government for what he described as “insightful and strategic thinking” in upgrading the vital Akilo–Locom Road, noting that the improvement will ease transportation, enhance trade, and improve access to essential social services.
The Deputy RDC also appreciated the contractor for the timely completion of the project, emphasizing that quality and punctuality are key in delivering value to taxpayers.
He further revealed that government has committed an additional Shs 140 million to facilitate the installation of box culverts along sections of the same road network to strengthen drainage and ensure durability, especially during heavy rains.
He urged the local community to take ownership of the road and use it responsibly to safeguard the investment.
Leaders Warn Against Vandalism
The Vice District Chairperson, who also serves as the district NRM Chairperson, Hon. Lapyam Emmanuel, thanked the contractor for completing the works within the stipulated time and meeting expected standards.
He cautioned residents against vandalizing road infrastructure, warning that anyone found sabotaging government projects would be held accountable under the law.
Hon. Lapyam reiterated the importance of community participation in protecting public investments and called upon residents to embrace government poverty alleviation initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) to improve household incomes and livelihoods.
Boost to Local Economy
The upgraded Akilo–Locom Road is expected to significantly improve transport efficiency, reduce vehicle maintenance costs, and ease the movement of agricultural produce to markets, thereby stimulating local economic growth.
The District Natural Resource Officer who is the focal Point officer Mr. Wany David Oyok emphasized that the project aligns with the government’s broader agenda of strengthening climate-resilient infrastructure under the LoCAL framework while enhancing service delivery across the district.
The commissioning marks yet another step in Kitgum’s ongoing efforts to modernize its road network and accelerate socio-economic transformation. Ends,