Uganda Taps Japanese Firm for New Karuma Bridge Construction

The Ugandan government has officially contracted Japanese company Zenitaka Corporation to undertake the construction of a new Karuma Bridge. This significant infrastructure project is scheduled to commence civil works in October 2026, following the formal signing of the agreement on July 10, 2026, in Tokyo, Japan.

The contract signing, which saw Eng. Isaac Wani, Commissioner for National Roads, represent the Ugandan Ministry of Works and Transport, and Osamu Tanabe represent Zenitaka Corporation, was witnessed by key officials including Solicitor General Pius Perry Biribonwoha and Uganda’s Ambassador to Japan, Tophace Kaahwa.

This development follows Zenitaka Corporation being named the most responsive bidder for the project. The new bridge is identified as a crucial element in enhancing the safety and efficiency of transportation along the vital Kampala-Gulu highway. It is expected to bolster regional connectivity, thereby stimulating trade and investment opportunities.

Officials highlighted that the project will also improve access to essential services and increase the overall resilience of Uganda’s transport network. The Ugandan government expressed gratitude for the support of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Japanese government through their Official Development Assistance (ODA) program, which has been instrumental in funding numerous infrastructure projects across the nation.

Ambassador Kaahwa underscored the project’s importance as a testament to the robust bilateral relationship between Uganda and Japan. Both Zenitaka Corporation and the project’s consultants, Oriental Consultants Global, have committed to adhering to required engineering standards and meeting the project timeline.

A groundbreaking ceremony is anticipated in September 2026, just before the commencement of construction. The new bridge will replace the current aging structure, aiming to significantly improve transportation and trade links connecting Northern Uganda with South Sudan and the broader East African region.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/355922/construction-of-new-karuma-bridge-to-start-in-october-2026