national 9 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Njeru Residents Demand Reopening of Blocked Public Roads
Residents of Njeru Municipality are protesting the closure of public access roads by private individuals, leading to intervention from the Office of the President. The community is demanding that authorities ensure roads to essential services remain open. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/njeru-residents-protest-closure-of-roads-seek-govt-intervention-5552238
Residents in Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, have voiced strong opposition to the closure of public roads, which they claim are being encroached upon by private developers and individuals. The escalating issue has prompted a direct intervention from the Office of the President, following a petition from local community leaders.
According to a letter signed by the Buikwe Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Andrew Ntanga, the President’s office is aware of the complaints against Mr. Felix Mugizi for allegedly blocking a public access road in Bujowali Village. Mr. Ntanga has scheduled a site meeting to mediate the dispute and determine the road’s status.
This incident is part of a broader pattern where public access routes, vital for reaching schools, health centers, markets, and places of worship, are being obstructed. Residents express frustration over a lack of consultation, alleging that some local leaders are influenced by private interests, leading to the loss of community assets.
“We are always told it was a council resolution, yet residents are never consulted,” stated Saida Baba Wabula, a local resident. Others highlighted the increased travel time and costs incurred by pedestrians, motorists, and boda boda riders forced to use longer alternative routes.
Legal experts emphasize that public roads are protected under Ugandan law, including the Physical Planning Act, 2010. Unauthorized obstruction can lead to enforcement actions, as these roads are crucial for emergency services, public safety, and economic activity.
Mr. Mugizi, the accused party, denied illegally closing the road, stating that he purchased the land with only a footpath and has fenced his property. He expressed willingness to contribute to a wider road but insisted that other landowners should do the same.
The upcoming site meeting is expected to clarify whether the disputed path is a public road, a road reserve, or a private track, and to facilitate a resolution.