President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially launched the construction of the Kampala-Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), a landmark project aimed at modernizing Uganda’s transport network, enhancing logistics, and boosting regional trade.
The 273-kilometre railway line, set to connect Kampala to the border town of Malaba, is a key component of Uganda’s infrastructure strategy and a cornerstone of East African trade development. The project will pass through key districts, including Tororo, Iganga, Jinja, and Mukono, and is expected to be completed within 48 months, beginning November 2024.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony in Tororo District, President Museveni emphasized the SGR’s role in addressing inefficiencies in Uganda’s transport system.
“Our roads are congested with cargo and vehicles, leading to slow movement, increased traffic, and damaged infrastructure. Railways offer a cheaper, faster, and more sustainable alternative for moving goods,” the President stated.
Partnerships and Vision
The railway’s construction, entrusted to Turkish firm Yapi Merkezi, is part of a regional integration strategy under the Northern Corridor initiative. Signed in 2014, this protocol envisions interconnected standard gauge railways across East African capitals, linking Uganda to Kenya and beyond.
Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala, recounted the long journey to this milestone.
“In 2008, President Museveni and the then Kenyan President envisioned a regional railway system. Today, Uganda is taking a significant step toward fulfilling that vision,” he said.
Kenya’s progress on the SGR extends to Naivasha, with plans to link Kisumu and Malaba beginning in January 2025. The Ugandan segment will eventually connect with Kenya’s network, fostering regional trade and integration.
Economic and Strategic Impact
President Museveni outlined the economic benefits of the SGR, noting that transporting a 20-foot container from Mombasa to Kampala by train would cost 50% less than by road.
“This project will make Uganda more competitive globally, lower transportation costs for businesses, and enhance regional trade,” he added.
The railway is expected to handle 25 million tonnes of cargo annually, reducing road congestion and boosting industries. Turkish Ambassador Mehmet Fatih Ak highlighted the transformative nature of the project, saying it will create tens of thousands of jobs, improve supply chains, and position Uganda as a regional trade hub.
Vice Chairperson of Yapi Merkezi Holdings, Mr. Erdem Arioglu, emphasized the symbolic importance of the project.
“This railway is not just infrastructure; it’s a symbol of progress, regional unity, and economic potential,” he said.
Infrastructure Development Beyond Rail
President Museveni also highlighted plans for additional infrastructure projects, including pipelines to transport petroleum products from Kenya, Uganda, Congo, and Tanzania, as well as new airports near Kidepo, Bwindi, and Kasese to boost tourism.
He reiterated his broader economic vision, underscoring the importance of rationalizing public services to reduce inefficiencies.
“Rationalization means eliminating unnecessary overlaps, like having both the Uganda Coffee Development Authority and the Ministry of Agriculture,” he explained.
The President also called on Ugandans to embrace productivity-enhancing initiatives, such as the Four-Acre Model and irrigation systems, while leveraging government programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) for affordable capital.
A Commitment to Development
Vice President Jessica Alupo congratulated the President and the Ugandan people, hailing the project as a catalyst for economic growth.
“Infrastructure is a critical driver of transformation. The SGR will attract investors, create jobs, and spur industrial growth,” she said.
The launch marks a significant step in Uganda’s journey toward economic modernization and regional connectivity. With petroleum revenues expected to fund further projects, Uganda’s infrastructure and economic potential appear poised for a transformative leap forward.
