Kitgum municipal council has tabled a shs11.87 billion budget for the 2026/2027 financial year, placing the everyday struggles of residents at the center of its planning.
From poor road networks and flooding drainage channels to limited access to essential services, the budget speaks directly to the pressing realities faced by communities across the municipality.
Presented during a budget laying session at the municipal headquarters, the financial plan outlines key priority areas including infrastructure development, healthcare, education, sanitation, and urban planning.
The secretary for finance, Kidega Patrick Paul, said the Indicative Planning Figure of shs11,874,319,067 will guide resource allocation to ensure improved service delivery.
For many residents, these priorities are more than policy statements, they are a reflection of daily challenges. “In neighborhoods where roads become nearly impassable during the rainy season, improved infrastructure could ease movement and support local businesses,” said Kidega.
He added that for families relying on public health facilities, increased funding may improve access to essential services.
The Kitgum municipality mayor, Okwera Richard Ojara urged leaders to ensure the budget responds directly to community needs. He emphasised the importance of prioritizing critical development gaps and called on technical staff to provide timely and accurate data to support informed decision-making.
The mayor echoed the need for unity among leaders, noting that collective responsibility will be vital in achieving the municipality’s development goals. He stressed the importance of monitoring and evaluating government programs to ensure value for money and meaningful impact.
During the council session, several councillors raised concerns about inadequate funding for road maintenance, drainage systems, and waste management. They called for increased allocations to address these persistent urban challenges that continue to affect residents’ health and livelihoods.
Other councillors highlighted the importance of investing in youth and women empowerment programs. With many young people struggling to find employment, they argued that targeted initiatives could help boost household incomes and create sustainable opportunities.
Municipal speaker Reagan Nokrac urged councillors to actively engage in committee discussions and maintain discipline throughout the budgeting process.
He emphasised that a credible and people-centred budget depends on both strong participation and accountability.
Meanwhile, town clerk Bagonza Monday Joseph reminded departments to align their work plans with the National Development Plan and government guidelines. He stressed the importance of transparency, accountability, and adherence to timelines to avoid delays in implementation.
As the budget process moves forward, residents remain watchful, hoping the proposed allocations will translate into real improvements in their daily lives.
For many in Kitgum, the success of this budget will not be measured in figures, but in better roads, cleaner communities, and opportunities that bring lasting change.
