A new 1,100-kilometer regional highway connecting Kampala, Uganda, to Bangui, Central African Republic (CAR) is set to transform trade, infrastructure, and economic growth across East and Central Africa. This ambitious project, jointly undertaken by Uganda, South Sudan, and CAR, aims to improve cross-border connectivity, create jobs, and boost commerce in one of Africa’s most vital trade corridors.
The highway project is expected to streamline the movement of goods and people, reducing transport costs and travel time between Uganda and CAR. Currently, businesses face logistical challenges due to poor road conditions, leading to delays and increased expenses. With the new highway, traders will have faster access to markets, allowing agricultural products, manufactured goods, and raw materials to move efficiently across borders.
According to Somali Magazine, the highway will follow two major routes: one from Kampala to Juba, South Sudan, and another extending from Juba to Bangui. These routes will pass through key towns such as Mundri, Maridi, Yambio, Yubo, Ezo, Bambouti, Obo, and Sibuti, ensuring that multiple regions benefit from improved infrastructure.
Job creation and economic Growth
Infrastructure projects of this scale are major job creators, and this highway is no exception. Governments involved in the project plan to use labor-intensive construction methods, ensuring that thousands of local workers are employed. The initiative will also stimulate growth in transport, construction, and natural resource industries, including fishing and agriculture.
South Sudan’s Minister of Roads and Bridges, Simon Mijok Mijak, emphasized that the project is not just about roads, it’s about economic empowerment. “We want this project to help communities by creating jobs and supporting sustainable development,” he stated in an interview with Sudan Post.
Boosting regional integration
The highway aligns with broader African Union and East African Community (EAC) goals of improving infrastructure to drive economic development. By enhancing connectivity between Uganda, South Sudan, and CAR, the project strengthens regional cooperation, making it easier for businesses to expand beyond national borders.
According to Somali Magazine, the Central African Republic has long sought better trade links with Uganda, and this highway will finally make that vision a reality. The improved road network will also lower transport costs, making goods more affordable for consumers and increasing trade volumes.
Challenges and future prospects
Despite the promising benefits, the project faces challenges, including funding, security concerns, and environmental impact. The governments involved are working to secure financing from international partners, while also ensuring that construction does not disrupt local ecosystems.
Experts believe that once completed, the highway will redefine economic opportunities in East and Central Africa. Businesses will thrive, communities will prosper, and the region will take a significant step toward economic self-sufficiency.
Final thoughts
The Kampala-Bangui highway is more than just a road,it’s a lifeline for trade, employment, and regional development. As construction progresses, the project promises to unlock new economic possibilities, making East and Central Africa more connected than ever before.
