A major highway in Uganda has been shut down for three weeks, leaving motorists facing a lengthy and arduous detour.
The Karuma and Ayago Bridges along the Kampala–Gulu highway closed on Monday, March 24, 2025, for emergency repairs.
The Ministry of Works and Transport announced that the closure is necessary to allow for the installation of expansion joints.
Motorists traveling between Kampala and Gulu/West Nile will have to take a detour via Luwero–Kafu–Masindi–Paraa (Murchison Falls National Park)–Pakwach, adding over 300 miles to their journey.
Those traveling between Kampala and Lira will have to take a detour via Iganga–Nakalama–Tirinyi–Pallisa–Kumi–Soroti–Lira.
The ferries at Masindi Port, which were fully repaired and successfully tested, will provide an alternative route for motorists.
The closure is expected to last until Monday, April 14, 2025.
“Please plan your journey accordingly!” the Ministry of Works and Transport urged motorists. “We regret the inconvenience caused.”
