Karuma Bridge has officially reopened to all traffic following three weeks of essential maintenance work.
The 61-year-old bridge, which serves as a key transport link between northern Uganda and the rest of the country, was closed on 24 March to allow engineers to install four expansion joints on the bridge deck.
Its closure forced motorists onto lengthy detours through Murchison Falls National Park, Masindi Port and eastern Uganda—causing major delays and disrupting the flow of goods and services.
Allan Ssempebwa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Works and Transport, confirmed the reopening on Sunday.
“Karuma Bridge is now ready to receive all traffic… The bridge has been fitted with reflective plates and street lights,” he said.
According to the ministry, expansion joints are vital for the structure’s durability, allowing it to contract and expand with changes in temperature and traffic pressure.
While the bridge is once again open to road users, officials say some minor work is ongoing. This includes the installation of guardrails and additional lighting, as well as river training works, the placement of cat’s eyes, and painting beneath the structure. None of these are expected to impact traffic.
This is the second time in less than a year that the bridge has been closed. In September 2023, Karuma was shut down after engineers discovered structural faults in the bridge deck, bearings, and expansion joints. It reopened on 20 December following three months of repairs that included the replacement of the deck and 12 bearings.
Going forward, the government has partnered with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to construct a new Karuma Bridge. The project—funded under a grant agreement—is expected to cost around Shs 121 billion and take five years to complete.
