Uganda's government is taking bold steps to bridge the gap between regions and promote equitable growth. During the 2025 Joint Regional Development Programme Annual Review, a significant milestone was reached: the handover of 196 vehicles to district and city leaders. But here's where it gets controversial: the vehicles are worth a staggering 35.2 billion Ugandan shillings ($9.3 million), sparking debates about resource allocation and transparency.
At the closing session, Minister Alice K. Kaboyo emphasized the government's commitment to affirmative action, aiming to address historical disparities. She highlighted investments exceeding 4.7 trillion Ugandan shillings ($1.25 billion) in programs like the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund and the Luwero-Rwenzori Development Plan. However, challenges persist, particularly in poverty-stricken regions like Karamoja, Bukedi, and Teso, where poverty levels remain high.
Permanent Secretary Ben Kumumanya praised districts like Mityana, Kiruhura, Mbarara, Arua, and Kisoro for their progress in staffing and local revenue mobilization. He urged a focus on implementation rather than endless debates about decentralization. President Yoweri Museveni's ceremony at Kololo Independence Grounds symbolized this commitment, distributing vehicles to district chairpersons, city mayors, and municipal leaders.
Minister for Local Government Raphael Magyezi emphasized the vehicles' role in strengthening supervision, accountability, and project monitoring at the local level. He instructed recipients to use the vehicles for public service, with transparency and efficiency. However, the distribution has sparked questions about the vehicles' impact and the potential for misuse.
Despite the controversy, the review and handover underscore Uganda's determination to strengthen local governance and deliver services under Vision 2040 and the upcoming National Development Plan IV. The government's efforts to bridge regional disparities and promote equitable growth are a step in the right direction, but the true test lies in the effective implementation and accountability of these initiatives.
