Uganda has signed a construction contract for the new Karuma Bridge, with work expected to begin in October 2026.
The Ugandan government has signed a contract with Japan’s Zenitaka Corporation to construct the new Karuma Bridge.
The signing took place at Keio Plaza Hotel in Shinjuku, Tokyo, on July 10, 2026.
Isaac Wani, the Commissioner for National Roads at the Ministry of Works and Transport, signed on behalf of Uganda. Osamu Tanabe represented Zenitaka Corporation, the main contractor.
The agreement followed the ministry’s decision to award the civil works contract to Zenitaka. The company emerged as the most responsive bidder.
Solicitor General Pius Perry Biribonwoha and Uganda’s Ambassador to Japan, Tophace Kaahwa, witnessed the signing.
The Ugandan Embassy in Tokyo helped organise the ceremony. It also coordinated discussions between Ugandan and Japanese officials.
Wani said the new bridge would restore safe and smooth travel along the Kampala-Gulu highway.
He said it would improve regional connections, boost trade and investment, and ease access to essential services. The project will also strengthen Uganda’s national transport network.
Wani thanked the Japanese government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency for supporting Uganda through the Official Development Assistance Grant Aid programme.
The programme has funded several infrastructure projects in Uganda, including the new Karuma Bridge.
Wani said the government would provide the institutional support needed to complete the project on time.
Kaahwa said Japan’s support reflected the strong relationship between the two countries. She called for closer cooperation for the benefit of both nations.
Zenitaka Corporation and project consultant Oriental Consultants Global pledged to deliver the bridge within the agreed period.
Zenitaka previously constructed the Source of the Nile Bridge in Jinja with funding from Japan. The company said it would apply high engineering standards to the Karuma project.
The government plans to hold the groundbreaking ceremony in September 2026. Civil works are expected to begin in October 2026.
The new bridge will replace the ageing Karuma Bridge. It is expected to improve transport and trade links between Kampala, northern Uganda, South Sudan and the wider region.
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