Modern Railway Era Begins in Uganda with Malaba-Kampala Launch Development

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially launched the construction of the 272km Eastern Route Standard Gauge Railway from Malaba to Kampala, marking a significant milestone in Uganda’s transportation infrastructure development. The launch event is currently underway in Tororo, Eastern Uganda.

This ambitious project is being undertaken by Yapi Merkezi, a renowned Turkish construction company specializing in infrastructure and transportation projects, including railways, bridges, and other civil engineering works. The company was awarded a €2.7 billion contract on October 14 to construct the line from Malaba to Kampala.

The project aims to revolutionize regional trade and economic integration by providing cheaper and more efficient transportation. The railway line will connect Uganda to the Port of Mombasa through Nairobi, and also to South Sudan, Rwanda, and DR Congo.

Key Project Highlights:

Route: The railway line will run from Malaba to Kampala through Tororo, Butaleja, Namutumba, Luuka, Iganga, Mayuge, Jinja, Buikwe, Mukono, and Wakiso.

Completion Timeframe: The project is expected to be completed within 48 months, starting from November 2024.

Financing: The project will be financed through domestic resources and development partners, following an EPC/T (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Turnkey) model.

Job Creation: The project is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region.

The Standard Gauge Railway project is a critical component of the East African Community Railway Master Plan and the Northern Corridor Integrated Projects Railway Network. Once completed, it will reduce transit times, lower transportation costs, and facilitate the movement of goods and passengers.