Outdated equipment stalls road works in Apac
The Apac District engineering department in Uganda is struggling to maintain local roads due to aging and broken-down equipment. With critical machinery like bulldozers out of service, infrastructure projects have stalled, negatively impacting local trade and access to healthcare.
Why it matters
Infrastructure failure in rural districts directly hinders economic development and essential service delivery for local populations.
Apac District engineering department is grappling with outdated road equipment as persistent breakdowns derail maintenance.
According to district records, some equipment has lasted over 30 years and are in poor mechanical condition.
Worst affected is a 34-year-old bulldozer that broke down in Apoi Sub-county and has been stuck there for over two months.
Other equipment available — graders, roller, dump truck and water bowser — is also prone to breakdowns.
The district also lacks crucial equipment such as a low-bed, wheel loader and excavator.
District Engineer Eng Gaston Olal said the equipment has aged and needs replacement.
"We have equipment that is old like this bulldozer now down was given to us by central government in 1992. It broke down and was taken to the regional workshop in Gulu where it lasted for almost 2 years," he said.
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