Rubanda, Uganda – Heavy downpours have submerged the Hamurwa floating bridge along the Rubanda-Kanungu Road in Rubanda District, cutting off access to the homes of two prominent Ugandan ministers: Dr. Chris Baryomunsi and Hon. Henry Musasizi.
The ministers must now take alternative routes; Dr. Baryomunsi, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, will access his constituency via Ntungamo, Rukungiri, and Kanungu, while Hon. Musasizi, the State Minister of Finance, will use the treacherous Mafuga Forest footpaths.
Stranded commuters expressed frustration, questioning why the ministers haven’t secured government support to repair the bridge and road.
Local citizens, including Kennedy Atukunda, Barigye James, and Nshabomwe Rovina, reported business losses due to the impassable and costly road.
Meanwhile, young men known as “Ababariya” who carry people and goods across the flooded bridge seemed unbothered, stating they’re making money from the situation. They noted that this is a recurring issue during rainy seasons.
This isn’t the first time the bridge has caused problems. In October 2019, two people died and three others were injured after an Isuzu ELF got stuck while crossing the bridge.
The victims were traders transporting goods from Kihihi in Kanungu district to Karukara market in Rubanda district.