Busega-Mpigi Expressway Cost Doubling Sparks Parliamentary Probe
Parliament’s Committee on Physical Infrastructure is demanding answers after the cost of the Busega–Mpigi Expressway more than doubled, jumping from an initial Shs547.5 billion to over Shs1.2 trillion. The concerns were raised during a meeting on March 24, 2026, with officials from the Ministry of Works, and Transport.
Escalating Costs and Shifting Explanations
Gen. Katumba Wamala, head of the Ministry of Works and Transport, attributed the significant cost increase to changes in the project’s design and scope. These changes reportedly include revised road alignments and the addition of interchanges and connecting roads. However, Committee Chair Hon. Dan Kimosho expressed skepticism, stating, “This is science, not gambling. It is not possible that changes could amount to double the price.” He suggested the possibility of deeper issues and warned of a “smelling rat” in the project.
Engineer-in-Chief Stephen Kitonsa confirmed a technical review team had reassessed the project, leading to the revised cost estimate. Despite this, lawmakers remain unconvinced that technical factors alone account for the dramatic increase.
Negotiations and Contractor Claims
Adding to the concerns, negotiations with the contractor are still ongoing, despite previous parliamentary approval of additional funding. Gen. Katumba Wamala revealed the contractor initially filed claims totaling Shs578 billion, citing delays and idle equipment. These claims were subsequently negotiated down to Shs78 billion.
Lawmakers voiced frustration over the protracted negotiation process. Hon. Nathan Byanyima questioned the delay, even as Hon. Stella Atyang raised concerns about poor negotiation practices, suggesting taxpayers are bearing the cost of penalties and inefficiencies.
Project Challenges and Potential Risks
The 23.7KM expressway, intended to alleviate traffic congestion on the Kampala–Masaka Highway, faced initial delays due to funding constraints. Additional financing from the African Development Bank helped to restart construction. However, MPs cautioned that continued delays and unexplained cost variations could expose the project to further financial risk. Hon. Kimosho warned that further renegotiations could occur if accountability isn’t established.
Accountability and the Search for Answers
The Committee has directed the Ministry of Works and Transport to submit the original contract for the Busega–Mpigi Expressway as part of a formal investigation. The focus is on identifying those responsible for the apparent financial loss and ensuring accountability.
The Wider Implications for Infrastructure Projects in Uganda
This situation with the Busega–Mpigi Expressway highlights a recurring challenge in Uganda’s infrastructure development: cost overruns and delays. Similar concerns have been raised regarding other major projects, prompting calls for greater transparency and stricter oversight.
The incident also underscores the importance of robust contract management and effective negotiation strategies. Poorly negotiated contracts can leave taxpayers vulnerable to inflated costs and prolonged project timelines.
Pro Tip:
When evaluating infrastructure projects, always consider the entire lifecycle cost, including potential maintenance and upgrades, not just the initial construction price.
FAQ
Q: What caused the cost of the Busega–Mpigi Expressway to increase?
A: The Ministry of Works and Transport attributes the increase to changes in the project’s design and scope, but lawmakers are questioning this explanation.
Q: What is the current status of negotiations with the contractor?
A: Negotiations are still ongoing, despite Parliament approving additional funding.
Q: What action is the Committee on Physical Infrastructure taking?
A: The Committee has requested the original contract and is launching an investigation to determine accountability.
Q: What is the length of the Busega-Mpigi Expressway?
A: The expressway is 23.7KM long.
Did you know? The African Development Bank provided additional financing to help restart construction on the expressway after initial funding challenges.
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