A delegation of senior government officials from the Republic of South Sudan has praised Uganda’s strong local revenue mobilization and management systems during a benchmarking visit to Mukono District Local Government.
The team, supported by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), was led by Simon Martine Owani, State Minister for Local Government in charge of Law Enforcement.
Speaking during the visit, Mr. Henry Ddamba the chief administrative officer of Mukono District commended the delegation for choosing Mukono and shared Mukono’s experience in strengthening local revenue collection.
He said the district has made significant progress through improved systems such as the Integrated Revenue Administration System (IRAS), which has enhanced transparency, accountability, and efficiency in tax collection.
“Mukono has benefited greatly from these reforms. We appreciate the Government of Uganda for recognizing us as a model district and our taxpayers for their cooperation,” Ddamba said.
Hon. Owani commended Uganda’s local government systems, noting that his delegation had come to learn how districts manage finances, collect revenues, and oversee council operations.
“We are grateful for the warm welcome and the detailed presentations. The lessons we have learned here will greatly help us strengthen our local governance and fiscal systems back home,” he said.
Hon. Jorem Kabali Kimera, the Vice District Chairperson and Secretary for Finance, Planning, and Administration, also thanked the South Sudan delegation for choosing Mukono as a learning partner.
He applauded the district staff for their preparation and encouraged continued regional collaboration.
“We welcome future partnerships and even investment from South Sudan, especially in agriculture, livestock, and education,” Kimera added.
The JICA representative, Mr. Kohea Sato, who led the South Sudan team, said Uganda’s experience in decentralization provides valuable lessons in taxation, local economic development, and community engagement.