At least 1,500 people have been compensated as the government of Uganda is set to begin the long-anticipated Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project.
The project coordinator, Perez Wamburu, while giving an update on the project, said that the infrastructure initiative will kick off before the year’s end, adding that after completion, it will be a significant milestone in East Africa’s transport development.
He stated that the project extends from the Malaba border to Mayuge District and significant efforts have been made to compensate those affected. Over 90 percent of residents displaced by the SGR project in the specified area have already received compensation.
The preparatory phase of the project is currently in full swing, focusing on securing construction and supervising contractors. Efforts are also underway to engage an environmental impact assessment consultant to work alongside the construction team, addressing any environmental concerns promptly.
This careful planning highlights the project’s commitment to sustainability and responsible development. Construction is expected to commence before the end of the year, signaling the project’s potential to revolutionize transportation within the East African Community (EAC), providing a more efficient and cost-effective option for goods in transit.
The compensation exercise has garnered positive feedback from the project-affected persons (PAPs), with individuals like Asuman Isabirye expressing satisfaction with the process. The transparent handling of compensation, along with the encouragement for PAPs to peacefully vacate, sets a positive tone for the project’s continuation.
Furthermore, the community’s request for a 3-month grace period post-compensation demonstrates a compassionate approach to resettlement, allowing individuals and families ample time to relocate.
As the SGR project progresses, the collaborative efforts among the government, contractors, and community herald a new era of infrastructure development in Uganda and the broader East African region.