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Dott Services at the start of Uganda - DRC road construction (Courtesy Picture)
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By Our Reporter
PARLIAMENT - Ugandan MPs are calling for a forensic audit into the cost and expenditure of a joint road construction project between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after discovering that the contractor, Dott Services Limited, was paid an extra UGX124.5 billion for work that had not been completed. Additionally, the project has raised concerns over the exorbitant cost of UGX8.5 billion per kilometer for the roads. The demand followed a report by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) based on findings from the Auditor General's review of the Ministry of Works and Transport. The report highlighted significant financial mismanagement in the project.
PAC Chairperson, Muwanga Kivumbi, voiced the concerns: "The Auditor General should carry out a forensic audit on the efficacy of the project, and the culpable paymasters should be brought to book. The total project cost has ballooned to a staggering US$509 million (UGX1.7 trillion) for 222 kilometers. At the current rate, this amounts to US$2.29 million (UGX8.5 billion) per kilometer, which is far too expensive under any circumstances. Moreover, for just 17% of the work completed, the Government of Uganda has overpaid by US$33.6 million (UGX124.5 billion)."
Muwanga Kivumbi (Parliament)
The joint project between Uganda and the DRC aims to construct and upgrade key roads, including the Mpondwe/Kasindi-Beni-Butembo (133 km) and Bunagana-Rutshuru-Goma (89 km) roads. The initiative seeks to improve business, enhance connectivity, bolster security, and increase trade and investment between the two nations.
Under the agreement, Uganda and the DRC are each contributing 20% to the overall cost, amounting to a 40% joint contribution, while the remaining 60% is being is being mobilized by Dott Services Limited (The Contractor). However, the Auditor General’s December 2023 report revealed that despite Uganda already contributing over US$66 million (more than half of its expected US$101 million share), only 17% of the work has been completed.
MPs are urging the government to hold those responsible for the overpayments accountable and to ensure that public funds are managed efficiently as the project continues.
Torch Media Africa
