Benon Kajuna appointed Managing Director of Uganda Railways Corporation

KAMPALA, Uganda — Benon Kajuna, a veteran transportation expert, has been appointed as the new Managing Director of Uganda Railways Corporation, the state-owned railway company announced Thursday.

Kajuna’s appointment comes at a critical time for the corporation, which is facing numerous challenges, including the incompatibility of recently acquired locomotives with the country’s aging railway infrastructure.

The locomotives, valued at 48 billion Ugandan shillings, are designed for 90-ton rails, while Uganda’s railway system can only support 80-ton capacity. Additionally, the railway’s triangular sections are reportedly too small to accommodate the longer locomotives.

Kajuna, who previously served as Director of Transport in the Ministry of Works and Transport, brings 24 years of experience to the role. Before assuming his new position, he officially handed over his duties to the Permanent Secretary, Bageya Waiswa. He officially took over as Managing Director, replacing David Musoke Bulega, who had been acting in the position for over a year.

As Managing Director, Kajuna will oversee efforts to modernize Uganda’s railway network, including the construction of a standard gauge railway.

The project aims to improve regional connectivity and boost cargo transportation efficiency, reducing road congestion and the cost of doing business in the country.