Assessment of the mismatch between planned and implemented road maintenance Makerere University

Abstract

The study is concerned with the assessment of the mismatch between planned and implemented road maintenance in Makerere University Kampala (MUK). The objectives were; to identify the roads whose planned maintenance matched with the implemented and those that did not; identify causes and address the mismatch; recommend best practices to address the mismatch. MUK road network was majorly designed by our colonial masters (the British) in the 1930s to 50s. No major alterations and road construction have been made in the recent years, until 2015 when there was a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and MUK. Data was collected from 40 respondents and 20 observation points on the roads under different weather conditions. This was through use of a combination of in-depth questionnaires, interviews, observations, archival records, measurements and photography. The data was analyzed and summarized using Microsoft Excel and use of propositions. Physical planning carries little significance to both the planning authority and the community which has hindered the implementation of the maintenance plan. Maintenance is done after occurrence of severe damage and in preparation for university ceremonies. There are limited funds allocated hence use of CEDAT students for work during their internship, discrimination on which roads to be repaired and politicization during election period. Recommendation of massive sensitization of all concerned parties about benefits of timely and adequate road maintenance. Put in place strategies to link up technocrats and stakeholders who are the beneficiaries. Refrain from discrimination of distribution of maintenance budgets to all places within this community. Further research should be addressed on matters concerning maintenance of the all structures around Makerere University so as to keep structures in a good working condition.