Leaders and tourism stakeholders within the Kigezi sub-region of Uganda have raised alarm over the deteriorating condition of Lake Bunyonyi Road, a vital artery connecting the town of Kabale with the scenic Lake Bunyonyi. Spanning approximately 8.4 kilometers, this road is crucial for the region’s tourism industry, which heavily relies on the natural beauty of Lake Bunyonyi to attract visitors from around the globe.
Despite Lake Bunyonyi’s reputation as a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, the state of its connecting road has long been a source of frustration for locals and travelers alike. During the rainy season, the road becomes virtually impassable, hindering access to the lake and jeopardizing the tourism-dependent economy of the region.
Leaders such as Steven Kasyaba, LC5 Rubanda district, and Abel Bizimana, LC5 Kisoro district, have voiced their concerns, emphasizing the urgent need for government intervention to address the infrastructure challenges plaguing the area. Kasyaba highlighted the repeated budget allocations for tourism road projects, calling on the government to prioritize the maintenance and improvement of critical infrastructure that supports the tourism sector.
Abel Bizimana echoed these sentiments, citing poor planning, implementation, and competition as underlying issues exacerbating the region’s infrastructure woes. He stressed the importance of efficient infrastructure in fostering economic growth and competitiveness within the tourism market.
Ivan Batuma, chairman of the Kigezi tourism cluster, emphasized the adverse impact of the road’s poor condition on local businesses, noting a significant decline in revenue due to accessibility challenges. He urged the government to expedite the planned upgrades to Lake Bunyonyi Road and other tourism routes in the region to mitigate further economic losses.
In response to mounting pressure, Allan Ssempebwa, PRO Uganda Roads Authority, assured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to addressing the infrastructure deficiencies. He outlined ongoing plans to upgrade Lake Bunyonyi-Kabale Road and Kisoro-Mughahinga Road, both crucial arteries serving key tourism zones. Ssempebwa confirmed the allocation of resources and the engagement of contractors to commence construction works promptly.
However, stakeholders remain cautiously optimistic, urging swift action to translate promises into tangible improvements on the ground. With tourism playing a pivotal role in the region’s economic development, the timely rehabilitation of Lake Bunyonyi Road is imperative to unlock the full potential of Uganda’s natural treasures and ensure sustainable growth for local communities.
As the government pledges action, the eyes of the Kigezi sub-region remain fixed on the road ahead, hopeful for a brighter, more accessible future for Lake Bunyonyi and its surrounding attractions.
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