Uganda, CAR Forge Landmark Road Network to Strengthen Trade Links

Uganda is set to collaborate with the Central African Republic (CAR) to develop a road network linking northern Uganda to a town in southeastern CAR, with the aim of strengthening trade relations between the two landlocked nations, President Museveni announced on Wednesday.

“We, alongside CAR, intend to convince the governments of Congo and South Sudan to construct roads from Arua (northern Uganda) through Isiro (Congo) and on to Obbo (CAR),” President Museveni stated.

He further explained, “We also need to persuade South Sudan to build a road via Yei, Maridi, and Yambio, connecting to CAR. This would create a road link between the East African Community (EAC) and CAR, extending further beyond.”

The Telegraph understands despite the geographical separation of over 1,100 kilometers, with Congo and South Sudan lying in between, Uganda and CAR are working towards this ambitious infrastructure initiative. President Museveni disclosed that the agreement was reached after extensive talks with CAR’s President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, who was in Uganda for the country’s 62nd Independence Day celebration.

Although Museveni did not specify when the road construction would begin or its cost, he emphasized the importance of these roads in helping the EAC tap into new markets and reduce reliance on what he referred to as “exploitative foreign markets.” He also encouraged Uganda’s airlines to explore direct flight routes to CAR’s capital, Bangui.

“I urge our air cargo companies and Uganda Airlines to explore the possibility of flying to Bangui, even if it’s only a few times a week, so we can strengthen our connection with our brothers and sisters there,” Museveni said during an event in Busia District.

Museveni stressed that connecting the EAC to CAR, a nation with over 6 million people that has endured conflict and civil war for more than a decade, would open up new regional market opportunities. “We must value Africa because it’s essential for our prosperity. A united Africa provides a larger market,” he added, while reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to completing the 332km Standard Gauge Railway from Malaba (Kenya) to Kampala, a project estimated to cost over $2.2 billion that has faced delays since its launch in 2013.

During his visit, President Touadéra praised Museveni for his leadership and pan-African spirit, acknowledging his efforts in transforming Uganda since taking power in 1986. “We see President Museveni as a vital asset to Africa for promoting peace and unity. His leadership in Uganda has inspired us greatly,” Touadéra stated.

Uganda has been investing in regional infrastructure projects, including a 223km road project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which began in 2021 for both trade and security purposes. This came in the wake of Uganda’s military operations, dubbed ‘Operation Shujaa,’ targeting ADF rebels and other militias in the DRC.