Minister Magyezi Urges Local Govt to Remit ULGA Subscriptions for Effective Operations
The Minister of Local Government, Raphael Magyezi, has urged all Local Governments to remit their Uganda Local Governments Association (ULGA) subscriptions to support the association’s operations effectively.
Speaking at the ULGA Karamoja Regional Meeting held at Matany Girls Vocational Institute, Magyezi emphasized the importance of financial contributions in strengthening local economic development through the implementation of national programs and policies.
ULGA Secretary General Richard Okuku highlighted key achievements made through collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government, government agencies, and development partners.
He also presented a status report on past resolutions, including calls for the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to remit local government revenue shares annually, the equitable allocation of road funds, and increased development grants.
During the meeting, Karamoja leaders pushed for regional status and economic development. ULGA President Awany Moses reiterated key demands, including salary enhancements, communal land registration, and the expedited implementation of the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund (NUSAF 4).
In response, Minister Magyezi pledged to advocate for mineral and wealth-sharing mechanisms, prioritize health infrastructure, establish a Karamoja tertiary institution, and create a regional economic council.
He also committed to engaging UWA and the Ministry of Lands to address boundary disputes and secure additional funding for local administrative structures.
Additionally, he announced a Shs 7 billion supplementary budget for ex-gratia payments, Shs 35.2 billion for vehicles for district leaders (District Chairpersons and Mayors), and the government’s plan to enhance salaries for both political and technical leaders.
Magyezi emphasized the need for transparency and accountability to safeguard decentralization efforts. The meeting also saw resolutions urging government action on Karamoja’s regional status, mineral resource benefits, operationalizing Moroto City, resolving land disputes, education reforms, and infrastructure development.
The meeting was attended by former ULGA Presidents, Commissioner for Local Council Development at the Ministry of Local Government Swizen Kinga Mugyema, District Chairpersons, Chief Administrative Officers, Speakers, Sub County Chairpersons, Senior Assistant Secretaries, representatives from the Ministry of Lands, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Ministry of Public Service, and Centenary Bank officials.
