ROAD WORKS BEGIN ON 2.7KM EDIOFE–ONDUPARAKA LINK ROAD

Road Equipment on site as works commence on the 2.7 kilometer road in Ayivu Division.

By Ferdinand Ecoko and Frederick Dramadri

Arua city

Residents of Ayivu Division have welcomed the commencement of construction works on the 2.7-kilometre road linking Ediofe to Onduparaka Trading Centre through Yigatia, saying the project will boost trade, improve security, and reduce road accidents in the area.

The road project, valued at UGX 260 million, is part of the UGX 1 billion road rehabilitation grant provided by the Ministry of Works and Transport to Arua City. The road is currently undergoing rehabilitation, including widening and upgrading, to improve transport connectivity between the two suburbs.

The LC I Chairperson of Angorovu Cell, Matia Amaku, said the project has received strong community support, largely due to prior sensitization efforts conducted by local leaders before the works commenced.

“I have not received any complaints regarding the road rehabilitation works. Although I have witnessed some destruction to sections of gardens and a few structures affected by the expansion, the community has generally welcomed the project,” Amaku said.

An elder in the area, Jimmy Anguyo, believes the improved road will stimulate economic activity and create new opportunities for local residents.

“The way the road has been widened from Onduparaka to Ediofe will make it busier and open up trade opportunities for people who establish businesses along the roadside. This will improve household incomes. I am personally happy about this development,” Anguyo noted.

Ayivu Division Town Clerk Geoffrey Mugomba said the council has not received any complaints concerning the ongoing works, adding that the road has long been a challenge for road users.

“That road has been a thorn in our flesh. Many people use it as an alternative route, but it has been in a very poor condition. The works will involve heavy grading and later compaction to improve its usability,” Mugomba explained.

Once completed, the road will serve as an alternative route for vehicles using the Uganda–Democratic Republic of Congo highway through Onduparaka Trading Centre. The diversion is expected to ease traffic congestion and support the planned construction of the Arua City–Onduparaka stretch through Onialeku Development Centre.

Residents and local leaders are optimistic that the upgraded road will not only improve mobility but also accelerate economic growth and development in the surrounding communities.