Authorities in Rukiga District, southwestern Uganda, have voiced their concerns over insufficient funding and staffing, which they claim are hindering service delivery.
These revelations were made during the Local Government Finance Commission Outreach Program, designed to evaluate funding for upgraded health centers and primary schools in the Kigezi sub-region.
Mariam Nalubega Patience, Vice Chairperson of the Local Government Finance Commission, addressed reporters at Kahama Health Center III, highlighting the challenges faced by local governments in the areas of health, education, and service delivery. She assured the audience that she would present these concerns to the commission.
Rukiga District Deputy CAO, Mrs. Byiringiro Rita, criticized the inadequate central government conditional grants, emphasizing their impact on road maintenance. Rukiga District boasts 170.1 kilometers of roads, requiring UGX 340 million, but receives only UGX 152 million.
Gilbert Ahumuza, Acting District Health Officer, bemoaned the lack of a district hospital, insufficient staff, and unfinished projects attributed to limited funding.
Turyaguma Pamela, In-charge of Kahama Health Center III, located in Kyikomero village, Burime parish, Rwamucucu Sub-county, expressed concerns about the lack of electricity, reliance on solar power, understaffing, and inadequate accommodation.
Other attendees included Local Government Finance Commission members Sumbua Naima, Adam Babale, Emetu Michael Emodu, Priscilla Asiimire, James Menya, and Rukiga District political and technical staff.
