Buwaya suspension bridge construction has once again come under scrutiny as leaders in Entebbe Municipality press the government for a clear timeline. The proposed toll-bridge, intended to connect Buwaya Island in Kasanje Town Council to Entebbe, remains in limbo despite being listed under National Development Plan III.
During a recent cabinet session in Entebbe, area legislator Mr. Michael Kakembo said the bridge is urgently needed. He cited a growing population in Buwaya, with many residents commuting daily to Entebbe for work using the Nakiwogo-Buwaya ferry or private wooden boats.
“Residents spend a lot on transport,” Kakembo said. “Boat fares are costly, and children must cross Lake Victoria daily just to attend school in Entebbe. Traders also incur high expenses to transport goods.”
If completed, the bridge would create a faster route between Entebbe and the Kampala–Masaka highway in Mpigi District. This would boost trade, ease transport, and reduce dependence on the unreliable ferry.
Expected Benefits and Concerns
Mr. Richard Ssekyondo, chairperson of Entebbe Division B, pointed out the potential gains. He said the bridge would stimulate economic activity and tourism. Attractions like the Mabamba Shoebill site could attract more visitors with better access.
“If government lacks funds, it should explore a public-private partnership,” he advised. “Investors can build the bridge and recoup costs through road tolls like those on the Entebbe Expressway.”
Ssekyondo also noted the underuse of government projects in Entebbe, like the multi-billion shilling Kitooro Market and the taxi park. He attributed this to poor connectivity, which limits business growth.
Residents Voice Frustration
Ms. Giida Nakibira, a resident of Buwaya and vendor at Kitooro Market, said hopes for better transport have faded. “We thought the bridge would ease our problems, but it has become a white elephant,” she said.
Ferry delays and breakdowns force many residents to use private boats, which charge as much as Shs3,000 per trip. “That’s unaffordable for most families,” Nakibira added.
Government Response
Works and Transport Minister Gen Edward Katumba Wamala said the bridge remains in the planning phase. “It’s premature to give a timeframe,” he noted. “Planning takes time before such a project becomes a reality.”
However, he agreed that the bridge would spur growth in the region. He urged the public to wait for formal details in the upcoming National Development Plan IV (NDPIV), which begins in FY 2025/26.
Gen Katumba also highlighted ongoing roadworks. The government is tarmacking the Nateete–Nakawuka–Kisubi–Mpigi–Kasanje–Buwaya road, which forms part of the long-term connectivity solution.
A Temporary Solution
Currently, MV Nakiwogo II remains the only government-operated vessel serving the Entebbe–Buwaya route on Lake Victoria. The ferry offers limited relief, but the bridge is expected to provide a permanent, more efficient link.
Tourists arriving through Entebbe International Airport often try to avoid Kampala’s traffic congestion. Many opt for the Nakiwogo–Buwaya shortcut to reach the Kampala–Masaka highway. However, the poor road network around Buwaya undermines its full potential.
