Members of Parliament have expressed concerns over the delayed completion of eight industrial parks across the country, despite a directive from President Yoweri Museveni. The delay in the project, which was supposed to be completed by 2020, has raised questions about the Uganda Investment Authority’s (UIA) ability to meet the Presidential directive.
The matter came to light during a plenary session on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, when the Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (Commissions, Statutory Authorities, and State Enterprises – COSASE), Hon. Medard Lubega Sseggona, presented a report on the financial statements of the UIA for the financial year ending June 30, 2023. The report highlighted the need to fast track the completion of the industrial parks, noting that UIA had fallen behind the initial schedule set by the President.
The committee recommended that UIA seek a renewal of the Presidential directive and ensure that the remaining eight industrial parks are completed as planned. The report emphasized the importance of completing the industrial parks to promote investment and economic growth across the country.
The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, advised that before the report could be adopted, the Minister of State for Finance, Planning, and Economic Development (Privatisation and Investment), Hon. Evelyn Anite, should provide clarification on the status of the industrial parks. The Speaker noted that there were ongoing issues related to investment that required the Minister’s attention, stating that all members of Parliament were keen on seeing the industrial parks completed.
Several MPs voiced their concerns, with Hon. Martin Ojara Mapenduzi, representing Bardege-Layibi Division, noting that UIA had faced multiple challenges that needed to be addressed by the Minister. He emphasized the critical role that UIA plays in facilitating investment and development in Uganda.
Hon. Joseph Ssewungu, the MP for Kalungu West County, suggested that a report from the Committee on Government Assurances regarding oversight visits to the industrial parks should also be presented to provide a clearer picture of the situation. He highlighted that during his time as the Deputy Chairperson of the Government Assurances Committee, numerous issues were identified at the industrial parks during their visits.
Madi-Okollo District Woman Representative, Hon. Joanne Okia, supported the committee’s recommendation, urging the Uganda Investment Authority to be given the necessary resources to complete the eight industrial parks. She agreed that the industrial parks are essential for Uganda’s economic development and should be prioritized.
The report also called for the swift completion of the Kampala Industrial Park in Namanve, which has faced significant delays. The project, valued at UGX 849.5 billion, has experienced cost overruns due to inflation, rising material costs, and extended labor expenses. The report warned that delays in implementation could lead to further financial challenges, requiring additional funding to complete the project.
The following table outlines key details related to the Kampala Industrial Park project:
| Project | Initial Cost (UGX) | Current Issues | Additional Funding Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kampala Industrial Park, Namanve | UGX 849.5 billion | Inflation, rising material costs | Yes |
In a separate discussion, the Minister of Public Service, Hon. Wilson Muruuli Mukasa, reassured Parliament that the Public Service Commission would soon present practical solutions to address the challenges faced by District Service Commissions (DSCs). The COSASE report highlighted several issues, including corruption, poor pay, and incomplete service commissions, which hinder the effectiveness of DSCs.
Hon. Muruuli Mukasa informed Parliament that the government had conducted a study to improve the efficiency of the DSCs. Cabinet had directed the Ministry of Public Service, the Ministry of Local Government, and the Attorney General to address issues such as corruption and political interference, particularly in the formation of district service commissions. One of the key proposals was to pay DSC members salaries from the consolidated fund instead of retainers.
The committee also recommended improved remuneration for members of district service commissions, a suggestion that was supported by Speaker Anita Among. She urged the Minister to implement the recommendations promptly to ensure that the DSCs function effectively and contribute to improved public service delivery.
