Despite the completion of at least 16 infrastructure sub-projects under the Development Response to Displacement Impact Project (DRDIP) in the West Nile region, these facilities, valued at 11.6 billion shillings, remain unutilized, according to the latest Auditor General’s report for the financial year ending June 30, 2023.
The unutilized projects, falling under the Social and Economic Services Infrastructure component of the DRDIP program, are spread across Yumbe, Moyo, Madi-Okollo, and Obongi districts. Yumbe District Local Government accounts for 7 unutilized projects, Moyo District has 6, Madi-Okollo District has 2, and Obongi District has 1.
The Auditor General attributes the non-utilization to delayed procurement and installation of medical equipment by the Ministry of Health. The report indicates that medical equipment, essential for the operation of these facilities, was yet to be procured and installed.
Khelil Ojock Bran, the Yumbe district desk officer for DRDIP, expressed the district’s inability to address the issue, emphasizing that the procurement of medical equipment is the responsibility of the Ministry of Health. He highlighted the adverse impact on basic social services, particularly health services, as the constructed facilities remain idle.
Joel Ojedra, the Madi Okollo district desk officer for DRDIP, acknowledged the non-utilization of two completed projects in their district. Ojedra informed that the ministry of health has been notified of the equipment requirement, which is yet to be delivered.
Launched in July 2017 and funded by the World Bank, DRDIP, implemented under the Office of the Prime Minister, aims to provide development and income support to vulnerable communities in refugee hosting districts, improving access to social services, expanding economic opportunities, and enhancing environmental management.
