The Ministry of Works and Transport, under the leadership of General Katumba Wamala, is set to evict car bonds along the Jinja-Kampala highway, in a move to reclaim critical public infrastructure and enhance urban safety.
The move, driven by persistent concerns over encroachment, severe traffic congestion, and the dangerous blockage of vital drainage channels, signals the government’s firm commitment to restoring order and functionality to one of Uganda’s most crucial transport corridors.
Following the decision, car bond operators and dealers operating along the Nakawa-Banda-Kireka section of Jinja Road have been issued a 30-day grace period, effective June 27, 2025, to voluntarily vacate the encroached road reserve.
Failure to comply, according to a statement issued by the Ministry, will result in forceful removal.
“The establishment of car bonds within the designated road reserve contravenes Section 16 (1) of the Roads Act, 2019 and has significantly contributed to traffic congestion, blockage of the drainage system and posing a serious safety hazard to road users along this critical corridor,” the Ministry stated in an official announcement issued on June 26, 2025.
The Roads Act 2019, Section 16 (1), clearly prohibits any unauthorised occupation or development within designated road reserves, which are crucial for future road expansion, utility placement, and ensuring clear visibility and safe passage for all road users.
The Ministry’s decision, therefore, aligns with Section 24 (1) of the same Act, which empowers authorities to remove unauthorised structures and occupations.
The Impact of Encroachment
The Jinja-Kampala highway is a vital artery to Uganda’s transport system, connecting Kampala to the eastern regions, a significant industrial hub, and the Kenyan border, facilitating trade and commerce.
However, for years, sections of this highway, particularly in congested areas like Nakawa, have been plagued by uncontrolled development and encroachment, which has since prompted the Ministry’s action.
The presence of car bonds directly within the road reserve has led to several critical issues:
Severe Traffic Congestion
Vehicles parked for sale often spill onto the main road, narrowing lanes and causing significant bottlenecks. This worsens traffic jams, increasing travel times, fuel consumption, and operational costs for businesses reliant on this route. It also contributes to air pollution.
Blocked Drainage Systems
Car bonds, along with associated makeshift structures and debris, frequently obstruct drainage channels. This leads to rampant flooding during heavy rains, damaging roads, properties, and posing health hazards. Floodwaters also contribute to the rapid deterioration of road infrastructure, requiring costly repairs.
Serious Safety Hazards
Vehicles parked irregularly, pedestrians navigating busy sales areas, and limited visibility due to the encroachment create dangerous conditions for both motorists and pedestrians. The risk of accidents significantly increases, threatening lives and property.
Compromised Road Integrity
Encroachment prevents proper road maintenance and future expansion plans, undermining the long-term functionality and investment made in the national road network.
Restoring Functionality and Safety
The Ministry emphasised that this eviction exercise is “critical in restoring the functionality, safety and integrity of this section of the national road network.” This proactive measure is part of a broader government effort to enforce planning regulations, protect public land, and ensure that infrastructure investments deliver their intended benefits to the population.
This move by the Ministry of Works and Transport signals a firm stance against illegal occupation of public land and prioritises the safety and efficiency of Uganda’s vital transport infrastructure.
While it may pose a temporary inconvenience for the affected car bond operators, the long-term benefits in terms of reduced traffic, improved drainage, and enhanced road safety for thousands of daily commuters and businesses will be substantial, ultimately contributing to a more orderly and prosperous urban environment.