Politics 3 April 2026 Parliament of Uganda
Internal Affairs Requests Shs46 Billion to Strengthen Border Staffing
Uganda's Ministry of Internal Affairs, led by Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, has requested Shs46 billion to enhance staffing at border points amid ongoing security challenges. The plea came during a presentation to Parliament's Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs on March 31, 2026. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4379/internal-affairs-ministry-seeks-shs46-billion-staffing-borders
The Ministry of Internal Affairs is pushing for Shs46 billion to bolster personnel at Uganda’s border posts. Officials, headed by Minister Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, made the appeal while defending their Ministerial Policy Statement for the upcoming financial year before the Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs on March 31, 2026.
Dr. Stephen Okello, representing the ministry on the NGO Bureau, highlighted the staffing shortfall: they require 1,286 positions but have funding for only 702. Of the 72 gazetted borders, just 53 are active, leaving 19 unmanned and vulnerable to smuggling and irregular migration.
Okello also pointed out that only 33% of borders have ICT systems, with most relying on outdated data methods that threaten national security. He noted difficulties in providing passport and immigration services to Ugandans abroad, suggesting that more funds would enable deployment of immigration attaches overseas.
Gen. Otafiire emphasized broader budget constraints affecting NIRA, Uganda Police Force, and Prisons Service. He urged the committee to sustain funding levels post-supplementary budget to avoid service disruptions and mounting arrears.
MP Hon. Brandon Kintu raised issues with the unfriendly attitude of immigration officers at Entebbe Airport, calling for training to improve their demeanor and support tourism and investment. Committee Chair Hon. Wilson Kajwengye sought progress on a private partnership for passport printing facilities.