By Richard Onapatum
Mpigi, Uganda – Mpigi District Local Government has completed the construction of a 3-classroom block for Mpigi UMEA Primary School, a project funded by the Government of Uganda through the Adhoc Transition Development Grant.
The new building, which will accommodate 150 students, also features two 5,000-liter water tanks to ensure access to clean drinking water. The project is part of the district’s efforts to improve education infrastructure and provide a conducive learning environment for students.
Staff from the Ministry of Local Government (MOLG) recently visited the school to assess the district’s service delivery. Led by Johnson Musinguzi, Assistant Commissioner of Procurement and Inspection, the team emphasized the importance of proper planning, budgeting, and procurement in allocating resources.
Musinguzi advised district procurement staff to ensure procurement plans align with annual budgets and work plans, and to conduct thorough due diligence on bidding companies. He also stressed the need to strengthen project monitoring and inspection to identify gaps and address them promptly.
Ms. Edith Namayenga, Chief Administrative Officer for Mpigi District, expressed concerns about low bidder turnout for contracts below 10 million, which are reserved for disadvantaged groups such as women and the disabled. She attributed this to the electronic procurement system, which many in these groups struggle to access due to limited smartphone, computer, and internet access.
The completion of the 3-classroom block is a significant milestone for Mpigi District Local Government, demonstrating its commitment to improving education infrastructure and providing quality services to the community.