The construction of the one stop border post (OSBP) at Katuna, Uganda’s main gateway to Rwanda has resumed, Government has confirmed.
The project which was started in 2014 but came to a standstill after World Bank, the major funder of the project pulled out due to alleged breach of contract. The construction was expected to be completed in one year.
Amugoli General Enterprises Ltd was awarded the contract in July 2014 but later stopped working because of non-payment.
The Managing Director Amugoli General Enterprises Ltd Mr Joseph Eyatu said last week, “We are back on the site and the works are progressively going on well.”
Kabale district LCV chairman Mr Patrick Besigye Keihwa said on Friday that OSBP will facilitate quick clearing of goods and create employment for Ugandans.
“It is our wish that the construction of this one-stop border post is completed as soon as possible so that the traders can get the desired services. There is need for close supervision to ensure that there is value for money on this multi-billion project,” Mr Keihwa said.
David Bahati, the State Minister of finance for planning last week confirmed that the government of Uganda is funding this project. He said government has secured Shs7 billion and will provide the remaining Shs8 billion.
“Government has secured Shs7 billion out of the Shs 15 billion required for the construction of the one stop border at Katuna. Construction has already resumed and government is looking for the Shs8 billion required to complete the work,” he said.
The Mayor for Katuna Town Council Mr Nelson Nshangabasheija said that construction works resumed in November (last year) and the work seems to be going on well.
“We are extremely happy and grateful to the government for raising the funds. I am sure once the infrastructure has been completed our town council will look nice and beautiful. The stalled buildings had made our town council look ugly,” he said.
Furthermore, the Mayor asked the government to intervene in the harassment of Ugandan traders in Rwanda.
Responding to the concern Mr Bahati assured the traders at Katuna border post that the Uganda government through the ministries of foreign affairs, and trade is arranging to meet the Rwanda government to harmonize cross border trade and streamline the security of members of the business community.
