The long-awaited re-opening of the Karuma Bridge took place today, marking a significant milestone in restoring a vital transport link between northern and central Uganda. The bridge, which had been closed for major structural repairs since October 2024, is now fully operational, bringing relief to motorists, traders, and commuters.
Officials from the Ministry of Works and Transport (MoWT) confirmed that the rehabilitation works, which included reinforcement of the aging structure and resurfacing of the road deck, have been completed ahead of schedule. During the closure, traffic had been diverted to alternative routes, leading to delays and increased transport costs.
Head of Communications at the Ministry, Susan Kataike, praised the cooperation of local communities and motorists for their patience during the disruption.
“We are pleased to announce that Karuma Bridge is once again open to the public. The upgrades will ensure its durability for years to come,” she said.
The bridge, which spans the Nile River at Karuma Falls, is a strategic link on the Kampala-Gulu highway and plays a critical role in facilitating trade and movement between the north and the rest of the country.
Business owners and travelers welcomed the news, expressing optimism that transport and economic activity in the region will now stabilize. Local resident Alice Adoch noted, “It’s a huge relief. We’ve faced a lot of challenges, but now we can travel safely and quickly.”
MoWT also announced that regular maintenance checks will be implemented to ensure the bridge remains in good condition.