The Ministry of East African Community Affairs (MEACA) on 24 June 2026 joined a multi-agency team to inspect the ongoing construction of the Elegu Gender Responsive and Climate Resilient Market in Amuru District, reaffirming the Government of Uganda's commitment to improving cross-border trade infrastructure and advancing regional integration.

The inspection brought together officials from the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, the Ministry of Works and Transport, Elegu Town Council, and Amuru District Local Government to assess the project's progress and ensure that implementation remains on course.

MEACA's delegation was led by Commissioner Leo Ojara, reflecting the Ministry's continued role in supporting initiatives that strengthen regional trade, improve border infrastructure, and enhance the movement of goods and people within the East African Community.

Funded by the European Union Delegation to Uganda and the Embassy of Denmark in Kampala, the market is currently 35 percent complete and is expected to be handed over in June 2027. Since its conception, the project has progressed through feasibility studies, stakeholder consultations, design, procurement, contract mobilization, and is now in the active construction phase.

Located at one of Uganda's busiest border crossings with South Sudan, the Elegu market is expected to transform the trading environment for thousands of cross-border traders. The market has been intentionally designed to respond to the needs of women, who make up the majority of traders operating at the border. Dedicated facilities and inclusive infrastructure will provide a safer, more accessible, and more efficient trading environment, supporting women's economic empowerment and facilitating greater participation in regional trade.

The project also incorporates climate-resilient features to address the area's susceptibility to flooding. These measures are expected to improve the market's durability, ensure uninterrupted trading activities during adverse weather conditions, and contribute to sustainable infrastructure development in line with the East African Community's climate adaptation priorities.

During the inspection, officials reviewed the quality of works, implementation timelines, and coordination among the various stakeholders to ensure that the project continues to meet the required standards and delivers its intended social and economic benefits.

MEACA's participation highlights its mandate to promote the implementation of East African Community programmes and policies within Uganda. By supporting strategic infrastructure at key border points, the Ministry continues to facilitate trade, improve connectivity, and create opportunities for communities to benefit from regional integration.

Once completed, the Elegu Gender Responsive and Climate Resilient Market is expected to enhance cross-border commerce, strengthen livelihoods, and serve as a model for inclusive and sustainable trade infrastructure that advances the objectives of the East African Community.