A New Beginning
PEC proudly embarks on a transformative journey as it assumes the role of “Engineer” for the Design and Build Contract for the Emergency Construction of Ssezibwa Bridge, a crucial link in the National Road Network connecting Kampala to Eastern Uganda via the Mukono – Kayunga Highway. This project aims to replace the existing bridge that has served for over 70 years with a new bridge. This project marks a significant milestone in Uganda's infrastructure development efforts.
Historical Significance and Urgency
Built in 1953 to support the transportation of cash crops like cotton and coffee, the old Ssezibwa Bridge has outlived its intended lifespan. Over time, structural defects and failures have emerged, compounded by heavy traffic from trucks carrying sugarcane and other goods. Consequently, heavy vehicles were prohibited from using the bridge since October 2023, significantly disrupting traffic dynamics along the alternate but busy Kampala - Jinja Highway, underscoring the urgent need for its replacement.
A Ground Breaking Collaboration
This project is a milestone, being the first of its kind and scale where both the Consultant (PEC) and the Design and Build Contractor (DYNACO Ltd) are Ugandan firms. PEC's role as the “Engineer” underscores Uganda's capacity to manage large-scale infrastructure projects independently. We thank UNRA for this opportunity.
PEC is committed to delivering excellence, ensuring that every aspect of the bridge's construction meets national and international standards, setting a new bar for engineering excellence in Uganda.
Sustainability and Climate Resilience
The project is situated in an environmentally sensitive area with a unique swamp ecosystem comprising five streams (Nalongo, Musamya, Kasala, Ssezibwa, and Kasota), neccessitating meticulous attention to environmental sustainability. PEC is committed to implementing sustainable practices throughout the project lifecycle, from design to construction and beyond.
Furthermore, the new bridge and approach roads will be designed to be climate-resilient, capable of withstanding a design flood event of 1 in 200 years. Measures will include elevated road levels and increasing the number of water crossing points. The main bridge structure will span 60 meters, and will be complemented by multi-barrel box culverts on either side.
Looking Ahead: Delivering Excellence
With a planned timeline of 30 months, including 6 months for design, 12 months for construction, and a 12-month defects liability period, PEC, in collaboration with DYNACO, is poised to deliver a state-of-the-art bridge that meets the highest quality standards.
