Old Karuma bridge to remain open

What the report says

The Ministry of Works and Transport says the old Karuma Bridge will stay open to motorists while construction begins on a new cable-stayed crossing over the Victoria Nile. The Independent Uganda reported that ministry communications officer Emmanuel Ainebyoona said work on the project started on October 1, 2026, with the contractor now mobilising equipment and setting out the site. The existing bridge is expected to remain in use to support traffic flow, provide an emergency alternative and continue serving as a tourist stop.

According to the report, government awarded the three-year contract in July to Japanese firm Zenitaka Corporation at a cost of US$24 million, while Oriental Consultants Global will handle consultancy and supervision. The new bridge is intended to improve access to and from Northern Uganda, especially for heavier vehicles that currently face limits on the old structure and its sharp approach curves.

The ministry said the new bridge is needed because the older crossing, although repaired more than once, still has structural and traffic-safety concerns. The article noted that the bridge is 64 years old, was originally designed for a 50-year lifespan, and was closed for repairs in late 2024. Once completed, the new span is expected to have straighter approaches, a wider layout and a cable-stayed design described as the first of its kind in Northern Uganda, with added tourism value for visitors to the area.