Kigezi Stakeholders Applaud Shs84 Trillion Budget, Urge Regional Industrial Focus

The Kigezi sub-region is welcoming the substantial Shs84.39 trillion national budget for the 2026/2027 financial year, viewing it as a significant step towards addressing public needs. Stakeholders expressed optimism, noting the budget’s focus on crucial sectors like education, agriculture, tourism, and public services.

Robert Kakuru, a resident of Kabale, described the budget as “promising and responsive to citizens’ needs.” He highlighted the increase from the previous year’s Shs81.2 trillion budget as evidence of the government’s commitment to development and improved service delivery, particularly praising the enhanced investment in agricultural innovation.

Kakuru also acknowledged the government’s dedication to boosting tourism, a key industry for Kigezi. Planned improvements to tourism infrastructure, including roads connecting districts, were cited as a positive move that recognizes the sector’s economic importance for the region.

Economist Syson Mwebaze pointed to the education sector as a major beneficiary, commending the full funding and salary enhancements for primary and arts teachers as a fulfillment of presidential pledges.

Despite these positive aspects, Mwebaze voiced a concern that the budget lacks a signature industrial project specifically for the Kigezi area. He noted that local residents had hoped for initiatives like an iron ore processing factory to generate much-needed employment opportunities for the youth.

Mwebaze also issued a cautionary note regarding the budget’s financing, which relies heavily on increased domestic revenue, borrowing, and external funding. He advised citizens to anticipate potential economic challenges due to the significant portion of the budget financed through debt, emphasizing the critical need for prudent debt management to ensure sustainable development and continued public service provision.

Source: Nile Post