Uganda Government Saves Shs773.3 Billion Through Agency Rationalisation

Minister of Public Service, Muruli Mukasa, informed the Committee on Public Service and Local Government on 26 March 2026 that the rationalisation efforts have yielded Shs773.3 billion in savings. These cover wage and non-wage bills, NSSF contributions, gratuity, and board expenses.

The committee, chaired by Martin Mapenduzi, learned that 90 percent of employees from 40 rationalised agencies have been integrated into core public service roles. Remaining staff include those with overlapping positions in host institutions or who did not apply for transfers.

The Ministry has completed structures, job descriptions, and specifications for these agencies and 14 line ministries under the RAPEX programme. It also followed Cabinet orders to eliminate director positions for efficiency.

Allen Kakama, Commissioner for Management Services, addressed media claims of court cases by former staff, stating that payments and issues are managed by relevant line ministries.

Plans for 2026/2027 include mainstreaming entities like the Non-Performing Assets Recovery Trust, NITA-U, and others, while merging bodies such as the Uganda Human Rights Commission and Electricity Appeals Tribunal.

Of 41 RAPEX-related Bills, 37 passed Parliament and 35 received presidential assent. Two were withdrawn, prompting calls for resubmission.

Chairperson Mapenduzi praised progress but urged resolution of staff disputes with line ministries. MP Ethel Naluyima criticised the report for overlooking grievances, including threats and uneven allowance payments.

RAPEX seeks to cut public spending, remove overlaps, and enhance service delivery via mergers and restructuring.

Source: Parliament of Uganda