The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Bunyangabu, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Bunyangabu district leaders have asked the government to decentralize the procurement process.
Speaking at the district’s budget conference on Wednesday, the leaders argued that they have returned to the treasury billions of unspent balances from the last two financial years due to the bureaucratic procurement process. The funds were meant for the development of infrastructure especially roads and construction of Katugunda Vocational Institute in Kabonero sub county.
The institute was commissioned in 2018 and the government sent over 300 million shillings for construction works, but the money had to be sent back to the centre after the government delayed awarding the contract.
John Manume, the LCV vice chairperson says that the district is losing key development infrastructures due to the ring-fenced procurement process which they have no control on.
He demands the government to decentralize the process since the districts have functional procurement units.
Manume says that several firms are awarded several contracts at the same time, which affects the quality of work they deliver leading to delays.
Remigious Turyahebwa, the Kakinga town council LCIII chairperson says that if the government doubts the professionalism and ability of local procurement units, it’s time they are trained and equipped to do the work.
Peace Mutuzo, the Bunyangabu District Woman Member of Parliament advises the local government to prioritize development areas where they can benefit most to ensure that even when money is taken back, there is visibly work on the ground.
During the budget conference, the district estimated 12 Billion Shillings that will be utilized on the 2022/23 financial year.
The District Chief Administrative Officer-CAO Edith Mutabazi said that the next financial year’s budget will focus on industrialization for inclusive growth, employment and wealth creation.
*****
URN
