By Richard Onapatum
Hon. Raphael Magyezi, the Minister of Local Government, has called on all Local Governments to remit their Uganda Local Governments Association (ULGA) subscriptions to ensure the association’s effective operation.
This appeal was made during the ULGA Karamoja Regional Meeting held at Matany Girls Vocational Institute, which focused on strengthening local economic development through the implementation of national programs and policies.
ULGA Secretary General, Mr. Richard Okuku, highlighted key achievements resulting from collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government (MoLG), government agencies, and development partners. He also presented a status report on past resolutions, including the demand for the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to remit local government revenue shares annually, equitable allocation of road funds, and increased development grants.
During the meeting, Karamoja leaders pushed for regional status and economic development, among other issues. ULGA President, Mr. Awany Moses, reiterated key demands such as salary enhancements, communal land registration, and the expedited implementation of the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund (NUSAF 4).
In response, Hon. Magyezi pledged to advocate for mineral and wealth-sharing mechanisms, prioritize health infrastructure, establish a Karamoja tertiary institution, and create a regional economic council.
The Minister committed to engaging UWA and the Ministry of Lands to address boundary disputes and secure additional funding for local administrative structures. Furthermore, he announced a UGX 7 billion supplementary budget for ex-gratia payments, UGX 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.
Hon. Magyezi called for transparency and accountability to safeguard decentralization efforts. Resolutions urged 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, CAOs, Speakers, Sub County Chairpersons, Senior Assistant Secretaries, Ministry of Lands officials, Uganda Wildlife Authority representatives, Ministry of Public Service officials, and Centenary Bank representatives
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