A Ugandan MP has asked Parliament to urge the government to ring-fence domestic funding for the country’s new cities, saying ten operational cities lack staff, physical plans and regulations.
Joan Alobo, Soroti City woman representative, moved the motion on 11 November, according to a Parliament of Uganda statement. It calls for sustainable Uganda city financing for roads, drainage, markets and waste management.
What does the Uganda city financing motion say?
Alobo said ten of 15 cities have been operationalised, including Arua, Gulu, Lira, Soroti, Mbale, Jinja, Masaka, Mbarara, Fort Portal and Hoima. Kabale, Moroto, Nakasongola, Entebbe and Wakiso are not yet functional.
“The 10 cities are operating well below their approved staffing structures,” she said, adding that most lack approved physical development plans and that city service commissions are underfunded.
She asked the government to submit a costed framework within six months of the resolution, with annual budget commitments and measurable outcomes.
How does World Bank money fit in?
The World Bank approved $540mn on 31 March for the six-year Uganda Cities and Municipalities Infrastructure Development programme. Alobo said donor money alone cannot build cities.
How did other MPs and ministers respond?
Denis Alyela said a city “must represent transformation in infrastructure, service delivery” and not only a change of name. Ismail Kasule said only two of Hoima City’s 16 wards have reached 60 per cent electricity connection.
Urban Development Minister Margaret Muhanga said legal and policy frameworks must be completed and the 2017 National Urban Policy reviewed. The motion’s outcome was not stated. Parliament recently also ordered a Dei Biopharma inquiry.
FAQ
How many cities does Uganda have?
Alobo said ten of 15 approved cities are operational, according to Parliament.
What does the Uganda city financing motion ask for?
Adequate, predictable domestic financing and a costed, time-bound strategy submitted within six months.
How much has the World Bank approved for Ugandan cities?
$540mn for a six-year programme covering 10 cities, 26 municipalities and 13 refugee-hosting districts.
