Stakeholders in the Kigezi sub-region have expressed optimism about Uganda’s 2026/2027 national budget, describing it as a people-centred spending plan that addresses the needs of various categories of citizens.
The Shs84.39 trillion budget, presented by Finance Minister Henry Musasizi at Kololo Independence Grounds on Thursday, is the largest in Uganda’s history.
In his budget speech, Musasizi outlined a financing strategy based on increased domestic revenue collection, borrowing and external funding, while maintaining debt sustainability.
Stakeholders in Kigezi said they were encouraged by the government’s commitment to key sectors such as tourism infrastructure, health, education and poverty eradication.
Robert Kakuru, a resident of Kabale, described the budget as promising and responsive to citizens’ needs, saying it reflects the government’s commitment to development and improved service delivery.
“The increase from last year’s Shs81.2 trillion budget to the current Shs84.39 trillion allocation reflects continuity in government priorities and efforts to improve access to services. The comparison alone between the two budgets shows that government is tracking its expenditures and directing resources toward priority areas,” Kakuru said.
He particularly welcomed increased investment in agriculture.
“I welcome the focus on agriculture, especially investments in agricultural innovation,” he added.
Kakuru also praised the government’s commitment to tourism development, noting that Kigezi remains one of Uganda’s leading tourism destinations.
“The planned improvement of tourism roads connecting districts in the region is a positive development and a sign that the government recognises the importance of the sector,” he said.
Economist Syson Mwebaze said the education sector emerged as one of the major beneficiaries of the budget.
“The full funding of education and salary enhancements for primary school and arts teachers demonstrate the fulfilment of the President’s pledge to improve teachers’ welfare,” Mwebaze noted.
Despite welcoming several aspects of the budget, Mwebaze expressed disappointment that it did not include a major flagship project specifically targeted at the Kigezi sub-region.
He said residents had hoped for the establishment of a fully functional iron ore processing factory to create employment opportunities, particularly for young people.
Mwebaze also cautioned Ugandans about the implications of increased borrowing, noting that a substantial portion of the Shs84.39 trillion budget will be financed through debt.
“I caution Ugandans to prepare for economic challenges ahead, noting that a significant portion of the budget will be financed through borrowing,” he said.
According to Mwebaze, careful management of Uganda’s debt obligations will be critical to ensuring sustainable development and continued funding of essential public services.