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Police deploys over 1,200 counter phones to strengthen public reporting

By
Emmanuel Okello
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Kituuma Rusoke, police spokesperson.

The Uganda Police Force has deployed 1,275 counter telephone lines across operational sub-county police stations nationwide in a move aimed at improving communication with the public and enhancing timely reporting of incidents.

Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma said the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to streamline service delivery and ensure that citizens can easily access police services within their localities.

“The Uganda Police Force has deployed 1,275 counter phones at its operational sub-county police stations nationwide. We encourage the public to utilize our dedicated counter telephone lines for timely reporting,” Kituuma said.

He noted that all the contact numbers have been made publicly available through the police website and official social media platforms to ensure easy access by the public.

“We strongly discourage contacting individual officers personally known to you for police assistance. Doing so may delay official response and reduce our capacity to act swiftly on incidents,” he added.

Kituuma urged citizens to take responsibility by obtaining and keeping contact numbers for police stations within their areas of residence, workplaces, and business locations.

“All responsible citizens are urged to obtain and keep the counter contact numbers for their respective areas whether of residence, workplace, or business interest,” he said.

The spokesperson further revealed that Community Liaison Officers and Public Relations Officers have been tasked with promoting the use of the counter telephone lines within communities to ensure widespread awareness and utilization.

The deployment follows the recent operationalisation of the sub-county policing model across the country, under which the Directorate of ICT equipped all operational sub-county police stations, as well as other units, with dedicated counter phones.

According to police, the move is expected to enhance coordination, improve response time, and strengthen trust between the public and law enforcement agencies.

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Former PS Ssali’s trial in Shs3.8b corruption case goes silent for a year

By
Our Reporter
-

The trial of former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade, Ssali, and her co accused, Member of Parliament Mawanda, in a corruption case involving Shs3.8 billion has not been heard for a year which raises questions over delays in the administration of justice.

Court records show that the matter, which initially drew significant public attention, has remained dormant despite the gravity of the allegations and the scale of the funds in question.

The latest development in the case traces back to April 17, 2026, when Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga of the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court adjourned proceedings to May 29, pending a ruling from the Constitutional Court.

The delay arises from a petition filed by Busiki County MP Paul Akamba, one of the accused, who is challenging his trial before the Anti-Corruption Court on grounds that he was allegedly tortured by security personnel. In his petition, Akamba is seeking dismissal of the charges, citing violations of his fundamental human rights.

Other accused persons in the case include lawyer Julius Kirya, Igara East MP Michael Mawanda Muranga, Elgon County MP Ignatius Wamakuyu Mudiimi, and Leonard Kavundira, a principal cooperative officer in the Ministry of Trade.

According to the prosecution, the case stems from the alleged irregular handling of compensation funds meant for Buyaka Growers Cooperative Society Limited. The state contends that Ssali abused her authority during the 2021/2022 financial year by introducing the cooperative onto the list of beneficiaries for war loss compensation, yet it had not been included in the original supplementary budget request dated August 4, 2021.

“The inclusion of the cooperative was done outside the established legal and administrative framework and was prejudicial to the interests of government,” the prosecution states in court filings.

Prosecutors further allege that Ssali authorized payments totaling Shs3.8 billion to Kirya and Company Advocates over the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 financial years, in contravention of the 2017 Treasury Instructions governing public expenditure.

“The accused knew or ought to have known that her actions would result in financial loss to the government,” the prosecution maintains.

The state also accuses the group, along with others still at large, of conspiring between 2019 and 2023 to defraud the government of approximately Shs3.4 billion intended for compensating the cooperative for losses linked to past conflicts.

Prosecution traces the compensation claims to the 1981 to 1986 liberation war and subsequent insurgencies, during which several cooperative unions reportedly suffered destruction of assets and disruption of operations, prompting demands for government redress.

The prolonged inactivity in the case, now tied to constitutional proceedings, risks undermining public confidence in the justice system, particularly in cases involving accountability for public funds.

The matter remains pending before the Anti-Corruption Court, with its progress now dependent on the outcome of the Constitutional Court petition.

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MP Kamuntu seeks legal action against UBOS ED Chris Mukiza over attempted shooting

By
Our Reporter
-
Dr. Chris Mukiza, Executive Director UBOS.

The outgoing Rubanda West Member of Parliament, Moses Kamuntu has revealed a decision to take legal action against the Executive Director of the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), Dr. Chris Mukiza following an attempted shooting.

The incident occured on Saturday evening at a top hotel facility in Kololo.

Kamuntu, who spoke directly to Eagle Online in a phone call on Monday morning, dismissed reports circulating on some online platforms that downplayed the incident, insisting that the matter occurred and would be pursued through the courts.

“Ignoring the false claims being published by some bloggers purportedly quoting Luke Owoyesigyire, he does not speak for me. The case was committed by Dr. Mukiza in his personal capacity at a private facility,” Kamuntu said.

The legislator maintained that his decision not to report the matter immediately to police does not invalidate the incident, emphasizing that he has opted for legal redress instead.

“Me not reporting the case to police does not mean that it was not committed. I am taking a legal route because I know police, with their capacity, can be manipulated by Mukiza since he has the capacity to do so,” he stated.

Kamuntu revealed that his legal team is already preparing action against Mukiza, citing the existence of evidence captured at the scene.

“My lawyers are writing to him to take a legal route exposing him because I have videos, I have footage. It happened at a top facility with all the CCTV cameras. I am not going to let it lie low with that arrogance of Mukiza,” he added.

He also took issue with remarks attributed to Kampala Metropolitan Police Deputy spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire, urging him to refrain from commenting on the matter unless it is formally reported.

“If Luke Owoyesigyire has any interest in the case, he should wait for it at police but not be used as a personal spokesperson for Mukiza,” Kamuntu said.

Police have previously indicated that they have no official record of the incident, describing it as hearsay in the absence of a formal complaint.

Therefore, Kamuntu is now seeking to resolve the matter through the courts since Mukiza failed to apologize and also refused to repair his car. 

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Kalangala District in shock as Woman MP Hellen Nakimuli dies

By
Our Reporter
-
RIP: Hellen Nakimuli.

Kalangala / Kampala, Uganda — April 19, 2026-Kalangala District has been thrown into shock following reports that Hellen Nakimuli, the Woman Member of Parliament for the district, has passed away after complications linked to a surgical procedure.
Although official confirmation from Parliament and family representatives is still pending, early reports circulating among political and parliamentary sources suggest that the legislator died shortly after undergoing surgery at a medical facility where she had been admitted for treatment.
The news has not yet been formally verified by state authorities, but it has already prompted widespread concern and messages of sympathy from colleagues and constituents.
A parliamentary aide described the atmosphere as “deeply tense and emotional,” noting that “people are waiting for official communication, but the reports have already shaken the entire institution.”

Constituents and Leaders React with Shock

In Kalangala, local leaders and residents expressed disbelief as news of the reported passing spread through the island district.
One district official said, “We are still trying to confirm what exactly has happened. If this is true, it is a huge loss for Kalangala and the country.”
A community member added, “She was always present when issues affecting islanders were raised. People here are still processing the news.”
On social media, tributes and unverified messages of condolence continued to circulate, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding the developing situation.

Parliamentary Career and Representation

Hellen Nakimuli has served as the Woman Member of Parliament for Kalangala District, representing a geographically unique constituency made up of islands on Lake Victoria.
During her time in Parliament, she was associated with advocacy on infrastructure development, transport connectivity, health service delivery, and education access for island communities.
Colleagues often described her as a grounded representative who maintained strong links with her constituents despite the logistical challenges of the district.
A fellow legislator once remarked in Parliament that “Kalangala requires a voice that understands isolation and daily survival challenges—and she has consistently tried to be that voice.”

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Former New Vision Journalist shot dead in Kampala as masked gunman escapes

By
Our Reporter
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RIP: Joe Namu.

Kampala, Uganda — April 19, 2026-Police are investigating the fatal shooting of a former New Vision journalist, Joe Namu, after he was gunned down by a masked assailant who fled the scene immediately after the attack.
According to preliminary security information, the victim was approached and shot at close range by an unidentified man wearing a face covering. The attacker reportedly escaped before bystanders could intervene, leaving the victim critically injured at the scene.
A senior investigating officer said the incident bears hallmarks of a planned attack. “The manner in which the suspect approached and immediately fled suggests prior preparation,” the officer said. “We are treating this as a serious criminal case and pursuing all available leads.”
Witnesses described a sudden and chaotic scene. One boda-boda rider who was near the location said he initially mistook the sound for something else. “At first, I thought it was a burst tyre. Then people started shouting and running. When I got closer, I saw police had already arrived,” he said.
A resident identified as Olive said the killing has unsettled the community. “It is very disturbing. You don’t expect something like this to happen in broad daylight. People are now afraid even to walk in the area,” she said.
Security analysts say the use of a mask is often linked to efforts to avoid identification and delay detection. A Kampala-based crime and security researcher noted that such cases typically require a rapid review of surveillance systems. “In situations like this, CCTV footage and witness movement patterns become crucial in identifying escape routes and possible planning,” the analyst said.
Police have since sealed off sections of the area as forensic teams examine the scene for ballistic evidence and other trace materials. Authorities are also reviewing nearby security cameras and appealing to the public for any information that may assist in identifying the suspect.
“We are coordinating multiple units to track down the suspect,” a police spokesperson said. “We urge anyone with information, no matter how small, to come forward.”
The motive for the attack remains unclear, and investigators have not confirmed whether the victim had recently received threats or was involved in any disputes.
The killing has heightened concern among media professionals and residents, with calls for stronger security measures and improved response to violent crime across urban areas.

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Gov’t lauds Rotary as a trusted partner in Uganda’s national development

By
Francisco Adongo
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Vice President Jessica Alupo recognises Governor Geofrey Kitakule.

At the 101st Rotary District Conference in Entebbe, Vice President Jessica Alupo hailed Rotary District 9213 for delivering over Shs8 billion in community projects — while District Governor Geoffrey Martin Kitakule called on all sectors to unite in service.

Entebbe | April 16–18, 2026-The Government of Uganda has reaffirmed its recognition of Rotary as a strategic partner in national development, with Vice President Jessica Alupo leading the commendation at the Rotary District 9213 101st Annual Conference — #DISCON101 — held from April 16 to 18 at Imperial Resort Beach Hotel in Entebbe.

Speaking at the official opening, Alupo praised Rotary for its consistent and measurable impact across health, education, environmental conservation, and economic empowerment, describing the organisation as a vital complement to government’s own development agenda.

“As Government of Uganda, we want to commend Rotary for being a trusted and strategic partner in national development, complementing our efforts in delivering critical services, all of which are aligned to Uganda’s Vision 2040 and National Development Plans.”

— Vice President Jessica Alupo

Alupo noted that the core values of Rotary — Leadership, Integrity, and Service Above Self — mirror the principles that guide public service and national transformation. She expressed particular admiration for the financial and programmatic achievements of District 9213 this Rotary year.

A YEAR OF MEASURABLE IMPACT

District Governor Geoffrey Martin Kitakule reported that Rotary in Uganda had implemented projects worth over Shs8 billion during the current Rotary year alone, spanning health, education, youth empowerment, and economic development. The conference served, in part, as a moment to celebrate those gains and set the agenda for the year ahead.

Kitakule, who has led the district’s 137 clubs, more than 5,349 Rotarians, and over 3,173 Rotaractors across Uganda and Tanzania, has consistently framed the organisation’s work in deeply human terms.

“I’m honoured to serve as District Governor. This year, we’re uniting for good — working with communities and partners to create lasting change. Rotary’s core business is humanity — transforming the lives of the less fortunate.”

— Geofrey Martin Kitakule, District Governor, Rotary District 9213

Beyond the headline figure, the district mobilised over $1 million for The Rotary Foundation, enabling Global Grant projects valued at over $4.65 million — a demonstration, the Vice President noted, of Rotary’s capacity to leverage resources efficiently.

HEALTH PROGRAMMES AT THE CENTRE

Health remained the centrepiece of Rotary’s programming this year. Alupo specifically commended the Rotary Family Health Days, the Rotary Cancer Program, the Rotary Mama Toto Care Program, and ongoing efforts to establish a Bone Marrow Transplant Centre at the Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC).

She acknowledged President Yoweri Museveni’s personal contribution of Shs3 billion to the Rotary Cancer Program — a gesture that, the Vice President said, reflects the government’s recognition of Rotary as a key partner in the national fight against cancer.

The Rotary Mama Toto Care initiative, spearheaded by Rotarian John Magezi and currently implemented across 14 districts, drew particular praise from the Vice President, who highlighted its direct alignment with the government’s goal to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality.

“As a nation, we cannot achieve sustainable development without safeguarding the lives of mothers and children.”

— Vice President Jessica Alupo

Kitakule’s vision for health has been equally ambitious. The district’s record on polio immunisation — with over 3 million children vaccinated through Rotary’s partnerships — reflects his conviction that transformative change can be achieved at low cost.

“It only takes $1 to save a life.”

— Geofrey Martin Kitakule, on Rotary’s polio immunisation work

BUILDING PARTNERSHIPS, INSPIRING SERVICE

The #DISCON101 conference was itself a statement of scale and ambition. Over 3,000 delegates attended from across Uganda, the region, and the wider Rotary international network. American Emmy Award-winning actress Mary-Louise Parker addressed delegates alongside a speaker lineup that included former Rotary International President Ian Henry Stuart Riseley, Kenyan life coach Robert Burale, and Uganda’s own Francis Tusubira.

Rotary Districts 9213 and 9214 jointly mobilised over Shs1 billion in cash and in-kind support for the conference and two other major Rotary events planned for Uganda in 2026, including the 7th All Africa Zone Institute scheduled for September. Centenary Bank alone contributed Shs280 million across all three events.

Kitakule has been vocal throughout the year in recognising the partners who have made this momentum possible — from financial institutions to advertising agencies to civil society organisations.

“What we are witnessing today is more than sponsorship — it is a shared investment in community leadership and a better future for all of us.”

— Geofrey Martin Kitakule, at the Rotary District 9213 Conference launch

On the Centenary Bank contribution to the conferences, he was equally direct: “We are deeply grateful to Centenary Bank for this generous support. This contribution will go a long way in ensuring the success of the upcoming conferences and strengthening our ability to deliver sustainable, community-driven impact.”

PEACEBUILDING, ENVIRONMENT, AND THE NEXT GENERATION

The conference also celebrated Rotary’s contribution to peacebuilding through the Rotary Peace Centre at Makerere University — the only such centre on the African continent — which trains professionals in conflict resolution, social cohesion, and leadership. Alupo credited the centre with positioning Uganda as a regional hub for peace education.

On the environment, Kitakule’s district has been active on multiple fronts, including a partnership with Uganda Breweries Limited and the National Forest Authority to restore the Namananga Central Forest Reserve in Kayunga District — a three-year, UGX 372 million project to plant 80,000 indigenous trees.

“The Namananga Forest’s restoration is a huge project that calls for cooperation. We are honoured to support UBL as they give back to the environment. I call upon UBL to remain our ESG implementation partners to restore our environment.”

— Geofrey Martin Kitakule, at the Namananga Forest Restoration launch, March 2026

Looking ahead to the next generation, Kitakule’s district partnered with the U.S. Exchange Alumni Network to launch a national initiative establishing Community Resource Centres in Uganda’s five regions. The initiative seeks UGX 1.5 billion and aims to provide young Ugandans with both physical and digital access to information and learning opportunities.

“In the past, I spent a lot of time at the U.S. resource centre to get information about study opportunities abroad. Today, things are online. But we need resource centres to provide resources digitally and physically. Let us do this to help the next generation.”

— Geofrey Martin Kitakule, at the USEA Partnership Breakfast

RECOGNITION AND THE ROAD AHEAD

Vice President Alupo extended appreciation to Kitakule by name for his exemplary leadership throughout the Rotary year. She also congratulated Rotarian Emmanuel Katongole on becoming a Director at Rotary International and Rotarian Francis Tusibira on his appointment as a Trustee of the Rotary Foundation — milestones that elevate Uganda’s standing within the global Rotary movement.

The conference concluded with renewed resolve under its theme, Inspire • Serve • Impact — a charge that, across the evidence of this Rotary year, Rotary District 9213 has already begun to fulfil.

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Banking Sector raises red flag over proposed Sovereignty Bill

By
Our Reporter
-

Kampala, Uganda — April 19, 2026
The proposed Sovereignty Bill has come under fresh scrutiny after the banking industry formally raised concerns with the Attorney General, warning that certain provisions could affect financial operations and Uganda’s broader investment climate.
In a letter submitted by the Uganda Bankers Association, industry players caution that parts of the draft legislation may introduce uncertainty in cross-border banking transactions and regulatory compliance for financial institutions operating in Uganda.
The association, which represents commercial banks in the country, argues that while the intent of strengthening national sovereignty is valid, some clauses could unintentionally interfere with established international banking frameworks.
“We support efforts to protect national interests,” the association reportedly stated in its submission. “However, it is important that any legal reforms maintain clarity and do not disrupt the flow of legitimate financial services and investment.”
According to banking sector insiders, the main concern centres on provisions that appear to expand state control over foreign financial interactions and external funding channels. Analysts say such measures, if not carefully refined, could affect correspondent banking relationships that Ugandan financial institutions rely on for international trade and remittances.
A financial policy expert in Kampala noted that the banking sector’s intervention reflects deeper concerns about regulatory predictability. “Investors and international banks value consistency. Any perception of abrupt regulatory shifts can increase the cost of doing business or reduce engagement,” the expert said.
The Sovereignty Bill, which is still under consideration in government discussions, is reportedly aimed at reinforcing national control over strategic economic decisions and reducing external influence in key sectors of the economy.
Supporters of the proposal argue that it is necessary to protect Uganda’s economic independence and ensure that domestic priorities are not undermined by foreign interests. However, critics within the financial sector say that sovereignty objectives must be balanced with the realities of a globally integrated banking system.
The Attorney General’s office has yet to publicly respond to the concerns raised by the Uganda Bankers Association, though consultations with stakeholders are expected to continue before the bill is tabled for further legislative consideration.
As discussions progress, the banking industry’s position is likely to remain influential, particularly in shaping provisions that affect financial regulation, international transactions, and Uganda’s overall investment attractiveness.

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NEW ERA: Victoria University appoints Meera Ruparelia to Council

By
Our Reporter
-
Ms Meera Ruparelia.

Victoria University has appointed Meera Ruparelia as the new Representative of Directors to its University Council, taking over following the death of Rajiv Ruparelia.

In a press statement issued on April 16, 2026, the university confirmed that Meera has been sworn into the role, placing her at the centre of the institution’s governance and strategic direction.

“The Victoria University has officially welcomed Ms. Meera Ruparelia as she was sworn in as the new Representative of the Directors to the University Council,” the statement said.

She assumes the position at a time the university is still coming to terms with the loss of Rajiv Ruparelia, whose leadership shaped its growth and repositioning within Uganda’s private education sector.

“Ms. Meera steps into this role following the passing of our beloved Director, the late Rajiv Ruparelia. While we continue to honor his contribution to the transformation of higher education in Uganda, we are confident that Meera’s appointment reflects continuity in the values he championed: innovation, grit, and experiential education,” the statement added.

In her first address to the Council, Meera set out her priorities, focusing on relevance, innovation and closer ties between academia and industry.

“In her inaugural remarks to the Council, Ms. Meera reaffirmed her dedication to ensuring Victoria University remains at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, bridging the gap between academic training and industry demands,” management noted.

Meera Ruparelia is part of the Ruparelia Group’s emerging leadership and has been involved in the group’s expanding portfolio across education, real estate and hospitality. Her appointment signals a continuation of the group’s influence in private higher education in Uganda.

Victoria University has in recent years positioned itself around practical, skills-based learning, with strong emphasis on technology, entrepreneurship and industry partnerships. The institution has invested in modern learning facilities and programmes designed to match evolving job market demands.

“We congratulate Ms. Meera Ruparelia on this appointment and look forward to her guidance as we continue to shape Uganda’s education system,” the statement said.

Her entry into the Council comes as universities face growing pressure to align academic programmes with employment needs, an area Victoria University has increasingly prioritised.

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UBOS ED Chris Mukiza allegedly attempts to shoot Rubanda West MP Kamuntu at Kololo facility

By
Our Reporter
-
Dr Chris Mukiza, Executive Director UBOS.

A confrontation involving the Executive Director of the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, Dr. Chris Mukiza and outgoing Rubanda West Member of Parliament Moses Kamuntu is reported to have escalated into an attempted gun shooting incident at a top hotel facility in Kololo on Saturday evening.

Eyewitnesses say the two met at the exit gate of the facility, where a disagreement broke out when Dr Mukiza, driving his official car, a Toyota Land Cruiser, knocked Mr Kamuntu’s vehicle. Kamuntu attempted to leave the premises before he was confronted, and it escalated to drawing a gun at Kamuntu.

The disagreement reportedly escalated into a heated exchange of words.

Mukiza then reached into his vehicle and produced a pistol, which reportedly malfunctioned, causing the magazine and bullets to fall onto the ground. 

Witnesses said that in the process of drawing the gun, the magazine fell and bullets were scattered, something that sent Mukiza, who sources say was a bit tipsy, into search for the two missing bullets. Later, bullets were found beneath the vehicle and recovered.

At the scene, Kamuntu demanded an apology, insisting the matter should be taken seriously due to the alleged display of a firearm during the confrontation.

Witnesses quoted Mukiza as he attempted to retrieve the bullets, saying:

“This is my gun, and I was given this gun to help myself in such incidents. Don’t joke with me.”

Kamuntu, when contacted by Eagle Online, confirmed that a confrontation took place but gave a different version of events.

“It is true there was an incident. He smashed my car, and I told him to repair it and apologize, but he refused and instead drew a gun from his car to shoot at me. He was even drunk and driving a government vehicle,” Kamuntu said.

Efforts to obtain a response from Mukiza were unsuccessful as his phone went unanswered.

Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire said police had not yet received any formal complaint regarding the incident.

“We have no information on that case at the moment. If the victims make a complaint, we can investigate. For now, we treat it as hearsay,” Owoyesigyire said.

The incident reportedly left eyewitnesses at the facility stunned, with calls for restraint among public officials in handling disputes involving alleged firearms.

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Uganda converts Shs7.78t central bank advance into long-term debt as borrowing pressures rise 

By
Francisco Adongo
-

Government has quietly converted a Shs7.78 trillion temporary advance from the Bank of Uganda into long term public debt, a move that will see taxpayers commit to years of repayments amid rising pressure on the country’s finances.

According to the Parliamentary Committee on Finance report on the Ministerial Policy Statement for the 2026/27 financial year, the short term facility was restructured into 10 year Treasury Bonds, effectively shifting what was meant to be a temporary intervention into a prolonged debt obligation.

The report states that what was initially a short-term advance from the central bank has been converted into long-term Treasury Bonds, adding that Ugandans will now pay about Shs547 billion annually in principal repayments for the next decade, excluding interest costs.

The Committee further cautions that recent improvements in domestic arrears figures may not reflect an actual reduction in liabilities.

“The drop in domestic arrears from Shs13.8 trillion to Shs8.4 trillion is misleading. The debt did not disappear but was moved from one account to another,” the report notes.

At the same time, government’s appetite for domestic borrowing remains high, with projections indicating Shs11.97 trillion in the 2026/27 financial year. Legislators warn that this trend is tightening liquidity in the financial system.

“The continued reliance on domestic borrowing puts pressure on the local financial system and makes it harder for businesses and individuals to access affordable credit,” the Committee observed.

With lending rates already estimated at 18 percent, the report highlights the risk of private sector exclusion from credit markets.

“The high level of domestic borrowing will crowd out the private sector and raise the cost of borrowing for firms and households,” the Committee warned, pointing to growing challenges for small businesses and individual borrowers.

Meanwhile, the report exposes gaps in regulatory enforcement, revealing that illegal gambling machines are being smuggled into the country in parts disguised as computer components.

“The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board has identified that gaming machines are imported as motherboards and circuit boards to evade detection at border points,” the report states.

It adds that once inside Uganda, the components are assembled into fully operational machines, many of which are deployed in rural and peri urban communities without oversight.

“These unlicensed machines pay no taxes, offer no player protection, and expose serious weaknesses in border control systems,” the Committee noted.

The report also raises concern over the rising cost of commitment fees on undisbursed loans, which are projected to increase significantly.

“Commitment fees will rise from Shs63.66 billion to Shs185.6 billion, largely due to delays in project preparation and implementation,” the Committee observed, describing the payments as a burden on public resources for funds that have not yet been utilized.

Despite the expansion of the national budget from Shs72.38 trillion to Shs84.29 trillion, the Committee warns that debt servicing obligations are growing at a faster pace.

It notes that the cost of servicing domestic debt alone is expected to rise by Shs3.94 trillion, underscoring mounting strain on public finances.

Overall, the report paints a picture of a budget under increasing pressure, where rising borrowing, debt restructuring and inefficiencies in project execution are converging to deepen Uganda’s fiscal challenges.

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