Uganda has awarded its first toll road deal to Egis Group.
Egis will operate the new expressway linking Entebbe Airport with Uganda’s capital, Kampala – image courtesy of © Znm, Dreamstime.com
The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has awarded the contract for the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway to Egis. The deal is for the operation and maintenance of the greenfield section of the toll road, which links Kampala with its international airport.
The terms of the arrangement will allow Egis to collect tolls on the route, which is Uganda’s first tolled highway. Egis will install the tolling equipment and operate the 26km route for a five-year period, with the option for a two-year extension to the term. The Ugandan Government will set the toll rates.
The Kampala-Entebbe Expressway is an important route for Uganda and the link forms part of a strategy to decongest the Greater Kampala Metropolitan area. Security and safety issues will provide major challenges for Egis. The installation of additional safety equipment and lighting along the expressway will provide high safety levels for drivers. According to Egis, neighbouring communities will also profit from increased safety and economic activity brought about by this project. With this first contract won by Egis in Uganda the firm says it aims to make this project a showcase for its operation and maintenance activities in the region. The operating company will employ approximately 130 people, either directly or through subcontracting to local companies
