The closure of the Karuma Bridge for essential repairs has sent shockwaves through the region, threatening to plunge South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo into a supply chain crisis. The bridge, a vital artery for trade, has been deemed unsafe following the discovery of significant structural damage.
This closure has sparked concerns over soaring transport costs and extended delivery times, impacting businesses and consumers alike. The Karuma Bridge, located 266km north of Kampala, acts as a critical link for the transportation of both people and goods between Uganda and its neighbours.
Its closure has forced cargo trucks to take a lengthy detour, adding over 150km to their journeys. This has resulted in a staggering 57.1% increase in fuel costs for cargo trucks travelling from Kampala to Juba. The impact of these increased costs is already being felt.
Hiring a 28-tonne truck to deliver goods from Kampala to Juba now costs a hefty Ush7 million ($1,895), while a 35-tonne truck will set importers back Ush8 million ($2,166). These price hikes are expected to trickle down to consumers, potentially leading to significant increases in the cost of essential goods.
Adding to the woes, the detour route through Murchison Falls National Park comes with its own set of challenges. Speed restrictions and a strict 6 pm curfew imposed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) further lengthen the travel time.
Drivers also grapple with the poor condition of certain sections of the road, particularly the stretch from Bulisa to Pakwach, which is characterized by narrow paths and sharp inclines. These factors have combined to push journey times from Kampala to Elegu from 11 hours to a grueling 19 hours.
Experts argue that this transport crisis underscores Uganda’s heavy reliance on road transport and the urgent need to diversify its transport network. Currently, over 90% of goods in Uganda are transported by road, a significantly more expensive option compared to rail or water transport.
While authorities are actively seeking funding, particularly from Japan, for the construction of a new bridge at Karuma, the immediate future remains uncertain.
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In the meantime, businesses and consumers across the region brace for the full impact of the Karuma Bridge closure, a stark reminder of the fragility of critical infrastructure and the urgent need for diversified transport networks.
