Community Action Led to Critical Infrastructure Projects in Nebbi and Kotido Districts
Posted on: 2025-11-21 15:55:10
Across Uganda, communities are taking action to address critical infrastructure challenges, proving that organised civic engagement can directly influence government decisions. Two recent success stories from the Nebbi and Kotido districts highlight how informed citizens, with support from civil society organisations (CSOs), are securing vital improvements to roads and bridges.
For months, residents of Umonda Village and Boma East Village in Nebbi District were cut off from essential services after the Umonda bridge collapsed due to heavy rains. This left children facing dangerous detours to reach Goli Mixed Primary School, and farmers were unable to access the Goli Customs Market, leading to increased poverty and isolation.
On December 7, 2024, the Agency for Community Empowerment (ACODE) and its partners organised a civic engagement meeting to empower residents with knowledge of their rights and tools for constructive dialogue with leaders. The community drafted a detailed petition to the Nebbi District Council, demanding urgent action and improved oversight for the bridge. A District Councillor also tabled a formal motion aligned with the community’s demands. This organised effort paid off. The District Works Committee recommended the bridge’s urgent rehabilitation, and on May 29, 2025, the Nebbi District Council approved a budget of UGX 75 million to reconstruct the bridge. This case is a powerful example of how community-led action can directly influence government priorities and deliver tangible results.
In Logoman Parish, Kotido District, women have long struggled with poor road infrastructure, particularly the Singila–Naburibur road, which becomes impassable during the rainy season. This has made it difficult for them to sell their produce, access health services, and keep their children in school.
In February 2025, ACODE partnered with Nakere Rural Women Activists (NARWOA) to hold a Civic Engagement Meeting (CEM) in Logoman Village. Participants learned about their rights and the responsibilities of their leaders. Empowered by the session, the women’s group drafted a formal letter to their area District Councillor and Sub-County leaders, demanding immediate maintenance and a budget allocation for the road.
This marked the first time many of them had directly petitioned their leaders. Their initiative was a success; the area Councillor responded positively and pledged to present the issue at the next District Council sitting. The women of Logoman Parish have transformed from passive recipients of poor services into active participants, ensuring the road’s rehabilitation is now on the district agenda.