Minister Kasaija asks local governments to be frugal

Finance Minister Matia Kasaija has called on local governments to manage their limited resources wisely, as Uganda grapples with financial constraints.

Speaking during a two-day Bunyoro Region Annual Budget Conference in Hoima, Kasaija emphasized that there would be no immediate budget increases for local governments, urging leaders to be prudent with their current allocations.

Addressing political and technical leaders from Bunyoro and Tooro regions, Kasaija acknowledged the challenges facing local governments, including salary disparities, understaffing, and poor infrastructure.

However, he stressed that the government simply does not have the funds to meet all demands.

"I know the struggles—bad roads, water shortages, issues in the health sector—but we have no money," Kasaija stated.

"Use the money allocated wisely and stick to the budget plan. Slowly but surely, we will meet our goals."

Kasaija also outlined the government’s long-term economic target, as outlined in the National Development Plan IV, to increase Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from USD 50 billion to USD 500 billion over the next 15 years.

He highlighted four key sectors—agro-industrialization, tourism, mineral development, and science and technology—as critical to achieving this goal.

"So, as local governments, you must align your efforts with the national agenda. Agro-industrialization, tourism, and mineral development, especially oil and gas, will significantly contribute to this target," Kasaija noted.

The minister also expressed frustration that leaders have not set a good example when it comes to wealth creation, despite government programs like the Emyooga and Parish Development Model being in place.

He urged leaders to actively participate in these programs to inspire their communities.

In a separate address, State Minister for Local Government Victoria Rusoke criticized local governments for failing to utilize funds sent from the central government.

She expressed concern over stalled projects in sectors such as education, health, and infrastructure, blaming corruption and inefficiencies within local procurement processes.

Rusoke also raised alarms about the prolonged failure to fill vacant leadership positions, particularly heads of departments, in several districts across Bunyoro, including Hoima, Masindi, and Buliisa.

She warned district service commissions against selling jobs and political interference, calling for transparency and accountability in recruitment processes.