The Ministry of Defence disclosed that it expends a total of Shs400 million monthly to transport troops to destinations such as Somalia, owing to the grounding of Uganda Air Cargo planes. This was in response to concerns raised by the Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Rosette Byengoma, revealed to the committee that Uganda Air Cargo had been facilitating these flights through charter services, resulting in financial losses for the government due to the involvement of third-party services. Byengoma emphasized the need for funds to address the grounded aircraft, urging for resources to be allocated for their maintenance.
Minister Jacob Oboth, accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs, appeared before the committee to address concerns regarding the Defence Ministerial Policy Statement for the fiscal year 2024/2025. The meeting convened on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.
During the session, Committee Chairperson Hon. Wilson Kajwengye queried the transportation of troops amidst the aircraft grounding, expressing apprehension over potential excessive spending on troop transport compared to the cost of utilizing functional aircraft.
General Manager of Uganda Air Cargo, Gen. Lakibus Lakara, conveyed the dire condition of the grounded aircraft, stating that none were currently operational. He highlighted the impracticality of repairing some of the aircraft due to the exorbitant costs involved, proposing their disposal as a more viable option.
Hon. Kajwengye noted that the disposal process falls within the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defence, with Parliament tasked to ensure legal compliance.
The Ministry of Defence has requested Shs381 billion for the acquisition of a new aircraft. Cabinet revived the Uganda Air Cargo Corporation (UACC) Limited in December 2023, aiming to address the operational challenges faced by the enterprise under the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). UACC specializes in cargo freight services and troop carriers, having remained dormant for nearly four years due to financial constraints. Presently, there are five aircraft, with three earmarked for disposal and two undergoing repairs.
For the upcoming financial year 2024/2025, the Ministry of Defence seeks a budget of Shs7.9 trillion to fulfill its obligations effectively. However, Minister Oboth highlighted a significant shortfall, with only Shs3.8 trillion allocated, leaving a deficit of Shs4 trillion. He appealed to the committee for assistance in mobilizing funds, citing the inadequacy of current allocations to meet operational requirements.
Permanent Secretary Byengoma outlined various areas facing underfunding, including a Shs962 billion deficit for wage enhancements and staff recruitment, as well as shortages in pension, medical, funeral expenses, fuel, soldier clothing, and overseas travel allowances, among others.
