According to the minister, the diocese has refused to sign consent papers required for the tarmacking of Cathedral Rise Road, delaying progress on a $50 million infrastructure project.
The State Minister for Kampala, Kabuye Kyofatogabye, has criticised Mukono Diocese for allegedly hindering the construction of a road in Mukono Municipality.
According to the minister, the diocese has refused to sign consent papers required for the tarmacking of Cathedral Rise Road, delaying progress on a $50 million infrastructure project.
Kyofatogabye's remarks came during an oversight visit to assess the readiness of contractors tasked with implementing the project.
He underscored the need for all stakeholders to cooperate, highlighting the road's importance in improving accessibility and overall infrastructure within the municipality.
"I am going to engage the bishop personally to understand exactly what the problem is. If they refuse, we shall leave out that section, but it will tarnish the image of the ministry to the funders. My humble call to them is to allow us to construct the road," Kyofatogabye said.
The Cathedral Rise section includes several church-owned properties, such as the Church Pension House, the Synod Hall, and the cathedral itself.
The minister urged the diocese to reconsider its position and find a resolution that serves the community's interests.
However, Mukono Diocese Bishop Enos Kitto Kagodo refuted the claims, stating that he had already provided consent and submitted the required forms to the Mukono Municipality Town Clerk.
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He attributed the misunderstanding to possible miscommunication between the Town Clerk's office and the ministry.
The impasse has sparked debate over balancing institutional interests with public infrastructure development.
With 90 percent of roads in Mukono Municipality reportedly impassable, many motorists depend solely on the Jinja-Kampala Highway, resulting in chronic traffic congestion.
To address this, the government has announced a Shs 134 billion plan to tarmac key access roads, enhance drainage systems, and construct markets in the municipality.
Key projects under the plan include:
- Nabuti-Katosi Road (8.3km): Budgeted at Shs 46 billion, this project will be handled by China Communications Contractors Company Ltd (CCCC).
- Nasuti-Bajjo-Kigunga Link - Kob Road: To be constructed by Sterling Construction Limited at a cost of Shs43 billion.
The remaining funds will go toward the development of the Kame Valley Market.
The minister called for unity and transparency among all parties involved to ensure the success of these transformative initiatives.
