By Mike Rwothomio

The Government of Uganda has unveiled plans for the construction of the Nyagak Paa Bruno Bridge over the Nyagak River, a critical infrastructure project set to transform connectivity for the agrarian community of Yil in Anyola Parish, Atyak Sub-County, Zombo District, and neighboring areas, including Nebbi Sub-County in Nebbi District.

Serving a population of over 2,000, this bridge is a vital link for rural communities long plagued by the perilous condition of the existing makeshift footbridge, locally dubbed the “Death Trap Bridge.”

The current footbridge, constructed with three wooden logs, spans approximately 20 meters and connects Atyak and Paidha in Zombo District with Nebbi Sub-County.

It is the sole access route to essential services such as healthcare facilities and markets for the farming communities.

The bridge's dilapidated state has led to tragic incidents, with reports indicating nearly 30 fatalities since 2007, including a recent drowning of a four-year-old girl on May 4, 2024, and two women in November 2022.

The multi-billion-shilling project, funded under the Uganda Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation Project (UCSATP), will include the construction of the Nyagak Paa Bruno Bridge and the rehabilitation of a 21.5-kilometer road network, encompassing the Patera-Nyawir-The Yao-Abakamel-Nyandima Primary School-Abakamel Market corridor.

According to Zombo District’s LCV Chairperson, James Oruna Oyullu, preliminary assessments for the bridge and road have been completed, with further details on the work commencement date forthcoming.

“The assessment is done, and we are optimistic about delivering this critical infrastructure to enhance connectivity and boost productivity for the communities of Zombo and Nebbi,” Oyullu stated in an interview on July 27, 2025.

Songa Biyika Lawrence, MP for Ora County and Chairperson of the Parliamentary Climate Change Committee, confirmed that Zombo is among 37 districts selected for the climate-resilient infrastructure pilot project under UCSATP.

“This project includes the Nyagak Paa Bruno Bridge, Adhi footbridge, and key roads like Patera-Abakamel-Uru-Nyadima-Yil, which will improve market access and resilience for local farmers,” Songa noted.

The UCSATP, implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries in collaboration with agencies like the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC & DB), and Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA), targets 69 districts across 13 agroecological zones. The initiative prioritizes climate-vulnerable watersheds, poverty levels, and environmental degradation to enhance agricultural productivity and market access.

Local residents, including Nuru Wathum, Chairperson of the Yil Rural Farming Community Association, expressed relief at the government’s commitment. “We’ve lost over 20 lives on this footbridge since 2007. Its reconstruction will be a game-changer for our community,” Wathum said.

Similarly, Philliph Okwonga Jawiambe, LCI Chairperson of Yil Village, described the project as a “life-saving venture” for the farmers.

Despite community efforts to repair the footbridge, logistical challenges, such as transporting materials from Paidha Town Council over 20 kilometers away, have hindered progress.

According to Zombo leaders, The Nyagak Paa Bruno Bridge project is poised to drive economic growth for Zombo and Nebbi’s agrarian communities, marking a significant step toward climate-resilient infrastructure development.

A journalist crossing the deplorable Nyagak Paa Bruno footbridge at Yil village, Anyola Parish, Atyak Sub-County, Zombo District.photo/Mike Rwothomio

The bridge, located in the Omyer Forest Reserve, is used by both pedestrians and motorcyclists, who risk their lives to transport agricultural produce.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa your number one grassroot news