Speaker Oboth Urges Expedited Lumino-Mulwanda Road Construction

Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oboth has called for the swift completion of the Lumino-Mulwanda road project in Uganda’s Busia District. During a thanksgiving event for State Minister for Transport Julius Wandera Maganda, Oboth formally directed the Ministry of Works and Transport to expedite the tarmacking process. This initiative is seen as vital for improving connectivity and boosting cross-border trade between Uganda and Kenya.

The proposed road is also expected to pave the way for a new official border crossing point between the two East African nations. Leaders from both Uganda and Kenya, including Busia County Governor Paul Nyongesa Otuoma and Funyula MP Wilberforce Oundo Mudenyo, expressed strong support for the project. They highlighted its potential to strengthen cultural ties among the Samia people and deepen regional integration within the East African Community.

Minister Maganda noted that Kenya has already advanced its side of the road construction up to Mulwanda and urged Uganda to prioritize the remaining 12-kilometer stretch. Kenyan officials confirmed that funds have been secured for their portion, emphasizing the need for Uganda to match their commitment. Joint boundary surveys are also underway to facilitate the new border crossing.

Beyond infrastructure, Minister Maganda also outlined plans to boost the local economy through agricultural initiatives, focusing on coffee and cocoa cultivation across 10,000 acres and supporting women with poultry farming projects. These developments aim to significantly improve household incomes in the region.