Overview:
Traders adapt to longer routes as Karuma and Ayago bridges close for repairs, impacting trade flows between Uganda, South Sudan and DRC
KAMPALA, Uganda — The closure of Karuma and Ayago bridges along the Kampala-Gulu highway is likely to disrupt Uganda’s thriving trade with its top export markets, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The highway, which connects Uganda to its neighboring countries, is a critical transportation route for goods and commodities, including manufactured goods, agricultural products, fuel and construction materials.
South Sudan has emerged as Uganda’s top export destination, surpassing Kenya, according to the latest data from the Bank of Uganda (BoU). In January 2025, Uganda exported goods worth $55.9 million (Shs206 billion) to South Sudan, representing a 54 percent increase from the previous month.
The DRC is Uganda’s second-largest export market, with exports worth $45.4 million (Shs167 billion) in January.
The closure of the bridges, which is expected to last for three weeks, will likely disrupt the transportation of goods to these critical markets, potentially affecting Uganda’s export earnings.
“The closure of the bridges will definitely affect our exports to South Sudan and the DRC,” said Martin Kakungulu, an exporter to South Sudan. “We rely on the highway to transport our goods, and any disruption will affect our ability to meet our export obligations.”
The Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry has urged the government to expedite the repairs and minimize the disruption to businesses.
“We understand the need for the repairs, but we urge the government to work quickly to minimize the disruption to businesses,” said Allan Ssenyondwa, the manager of policy and advocacy at the Uganda Manufacturers Association.
The government has announced alternative routes for motorists, but these routes are likely to be longer and more expensive, potentially increasing the cost of doing business.
The closure of the bridges is a significant challenge for Uganda’s economy, which is heavily reliant on trade with its neighboring countries. The government will need to work quickly to repair the bridges and minimize the disruption to businesses.