KANUNGU- In a moment filled with hope and determination, the District Council gathered yesterday, March 28, 2025, under the leadership of Mr. Byaruhanga Frank Farauh, the District Speaker. The focus of the meeting was to approve the fourth local governments development plan for the FY 2025/2026-2029/2030, which was successfully approved with amendments and
lay the budget estimates for the upcoming financial year 2025/26, a significant step toward shaping the future of the district.
Mr. Deus Magara, the Secretary for Production and Area Councillor for Kinaba, presented the budget on behalf of the District Chairperson, showcasing a comprehensive financial plan amounting to UGX 59,069,979,000=.
Magara emphasized that this budget is not just a number; it represents a steadfast commitment to transforming lives and fostering socio-economic growth within the community. “This budget reflects our unwavering dedication to poverty eradication, agricultural development, and empowering women and youth,” he stated, highlighting the importance of improved public service delivery and sustainable economic growth.
The theme for the budget this year is “Promotion of Agriculture, Market Access for Inclusive Growth, Employment, and Wealth Creation.” This theme resonates deeply with the council’s vision of creating a more equitable and prosperous community. The key outcomes they aim to achieve include accelerated and resilient economic growth, job-rich opportunities, and a commitment to reducing human vulnerability while enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Moreover, the budget aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Africa Agenda 2063, reinforcing the district’s commitment to global standards of progress.
Nearly 97.09% of the funding will come from central government transfers, ensuring that resources are reliable and aligned with national priorities. The council is also exploring innovative financing mechanisms, including Public-Private Partnerships, to deepen collaboration and support community-driven projects.
As the council laid out the budget, the allocations reflected a strategic focus on essential services that would directly impact the lives of residents. A significant portion, UGX 28,219,380,000, is dedicated to the health sector, aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure and access to quality services. The education sector will receive UGX 13,589,162,000, which is crucial for transforming learning environments for the district’s youth. Additionally, UGX 2,810,122,000 is earmarked for agricultural advancements and entrepreneurial growth, while UGX 8,321,515,000 will enhance operational efficiency within local government.
Grassroots development remains a priority, with UGX 1,616,224,000 allocated to support non-wage initiatives across 27 lower local governments. Specific sub-counties and urban councils will benefit from developmental activities valued at UGX 425,034,000, ensuring that the efforts reach those who need them most.
The budget also includes vital projects designed to uplift living standards, such as upgrading health facilities to hospital status and constructing multi-use VIP latrines in primary schools. These initiatives aim to ensure that public resources translate into meaningful change in the community.
As the meeting drew to a close, Speaker Byaruhanga expressed optimism for the future, saying, “This budget reflects the collective aspirations of our people and our dedication to making meaningful progress. Together, we will achieve transformative strides toward creating a district of opportunity and prosperity for all.”
For the residents, the laying of this budget symbolizes a strong commitment to inclusive development and innovation. It embodies a vision where community empowerment, improved healthcare, and enhanced education come together to create a brighter future. With unity and determination, this historic moment ignites a new chapter for the district’s economic and social advancement, promising a transformative fiscal year ahead that will uplift communities and bring dreams of sustainable growth closer to reality.