Faith Nyasuguta
Uganda, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic (CAR) have joined forces to launch a landmark 1,800-kilometre cross-border road project aimed at transforming trade, travel, and regional cooperation across East and Central Africa. The multi-phase initiative is expected to ease transport bottlenecks, drive economic integration, and support development in some of Africa’s most underserved areas.
The ambitious road network will link Kampala, Uganda’s capital, to Bangui, the capital of CAR, passing through key South Sudanese towns. It represents a major leap in regional connectivity, offering landlocked nations new access to trade routes and commercial hubs. The project will be executed in stages, starting with urgent upgrades and culminating in full-scale, high-capacity road infrastructure.
Phased Development for Long-Term Impact
The project’s rollout will occur in two main phases. Phase I will prioritise urgent repairs, gravel upgrades, and maintenance of key bridges to immediately open up the corridor for essential goods and traffic. This phase will focus on improving safety and basic accessibility.
Phase II will see more advanced engineering works, including tarmacking roads and rehabilitating worn-out tarmac routes. This will create a durable, efficient corridor capable of handling increasing commercial traffic, reducing delays, and lowering costs for businesses and travellers alike.
The phased strategy allows each country to target critical sections first while progressively sourcing funds for broader expansion. Financing will come from a mix of national budgets, international development partners, and private-sector contributions.
Strategic Regional Integration
South Sudan’s Minister of Roads and Bridges, Simon Mijok Mijak, described the corridor as a “game-changer” for regional unity and trade. He noted that two main routes are under consideration: one running from Nimule to Tambura via Juba, Maridi, and Yambio, and another from Kaya to Juba via Yei and Lainya. Both routes will strengthen access between East and Central Africa and encourage cross-border commerce.
“The Central African Republic seeks to connect with Uganda through South Sudan,” said Mijak. “These highways will serve as vital arteries for trade and economic cooperation.”
Boost for Trade, Stability & Recovery
This East-West trade corridor will provide a valuable alternative to overused North-South transport routes, easing congestion and improving resilience. For businesses- especially in agriculture and retail- the new roads will reduce transport costs, cut delivery times, and improve access to regional markets.
The corridor also has strong social and political implications. It supports post-conflict recovery efforts in both South Sudan and CAR by promoting infrastructure-led development, enhancing access to services, and providing a stable route for humanitarian aid and peacekeeping missions.
Furthermore, the project aligns with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to connect economies across the continent through improved trade logistics and the seamless movement of goods and people.
Once completed, the Kampala–Bangui highway will stand as a symbol of African-led development, showcasing what regional collaboration can achieve. It is expected to become a vital economic artery for East and Central Africa—connecting communities, unlocking opportunities, and laying the foundation for shared prosperity.
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