news 18 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
MPs decry delayed compensation as Odrua Bridge nears completion
The Parliamentary Committee on Government Assurance and Implementation has expressed serious concerns over the delayed compensation of people affected by the construction of the Shs5 billion Odrua Bridge, which connects Arua and Zombo districts. The bridge's construction is nearing completion, but over 50 locals whose land and crops were affected remain uncompensated. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/mps-fault-govt-over-delayed-compesantion-as-odrua-bridge-nears-completion-5562578
Members of Parliament have voiced strong disapproval regarding the government’s failure to compensate individuals affected by the construction of the Odrua Bridge. The bridge, a vital link between the Arua and Zombo districts, is reportedly at 98% completion but has missed its original three-year deadline and faces scrutiny over unresolved compensation issues.
During an inspection, the Committee on Government Assurance and Implementation, led by Chairperson Francis Zaake, highlighted that despite the commendable progress on the bridge, significant questions remain unanswered. “Why should this project take five years when it was meant for three years?” Zaake questioned, pointing out the lack of proper drainage and the overdue compensation for Project Affected Persons (PAPs).
The committee emphasized that the government must account for over 50 individuals whose land was acquired and crops were destroyed during the construction phases, noting that these citizens are legally entitled to compensation. The delayed payments, some dating back to the project’s inception in 2021, have caused significant hardship, with one affected resident, Mr. Christino Odaga, lamenting that some individuals have passed away before receiving their due compensation.
Officials from the Ministry of Works and Transport indicated that property valuations have been completed and that payments are being processed, expecting all compensation to be finalized within a month. The contractor, Dynaco Construction Company, acknowledged concerns about drainage and environmental restoration and committed to addressing them. District leaders also expressed frustration over a lack of involvement and information, hindering effective project monitoring.
The committee also inspected the Alla and Osu bridges, which have been problematic for decades. They were satisfied with the progress on these bridges and an adjacent road construction, part of a larger Shs25 billion infrastructure initiative that includes the Odrua Bridge. However, the focus remains on ensuring that all project promises, particularly compensation, are fulfilled to achieve value for money.