Uganda is currently upgrading its road networks with neighbouring Kenya, DR Congo and South Sudan to improve connectivity and trade in the region, the East African has reported.
The country’s 44.5-kilometre-long Bumbobi-Lwakhakha road into Bungoma County, western Kenya, has been upgraded and is open for travellers and transporters between the two countries. The route also serves as an alternative to the Busia and Malaba border crossings.
Quoted in the report, Uganda Trade Minister, Amelia Kyambadde, said that Uganda was also constructing the Kapchorwa-Suam road, which would benefit South Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.
“Kenya is our main connection to the outside world by sea and having such roads built will greatly improve trade - not just between the two countries but within the entire region. Doing business will be cheaper and transportation of goods will be faster,” she said.
Kenya is Uganda’s biggest trade partner, with Uganda importing goods worth $600 million from Kenya while Kenya’s imports from Uganda amount to around $500 million.
“The road upgrades will play a major role come Africa’s free trade area in January 2021,” she said.