Bughendera District Creation Stalled, Residents Anxious Amidst Government Silence

For over 16 years, the people of Bughendera County have been anticipating the creation of their own district, a promise first made in 2010. Despite repeated assurances and a recent resolution by the ruling NRM Parliamentary Caucus in September 2025 to support the initiative, the process appears to have ground to a halt.

Local leaders and community members express frustration and uncertainty over the prolonged silence from the government. “We were assured that after the NRM Caucus resolution and ministry consultations, the proposal would be tabled before Parliament before the elections. Since then, everything has gone quiet,” stated Moses Bagamba, a district councilor for Ngamba Sub-county. He highlighted that a dedicated district would significantly improve service delivery in the mountainous region, which faces challenges with infrastructure and accessibility.

Concerns about service deficits are widespread, with many areas lacking essential services. Eight sub-counties within Bughendera County do not have a government-aided secondary school, and existing primary schools and health centers are often in poor condition. “With a dedicated budget for the new district, we can directly prioritize building schools and upgrading health facilities,” Bagamba added.

Area MP Christopher Kibanzanga confirmed that the matter is awaiting executive action for presentation to Parliament. However, efforts to get official comments from the Ministry of Local Government have been unsuccessful.

Adding to the complexity are reported boundary disputes and tribal sensitivities that emerged after the NRM Caucus endorsement. Petitions have been submitted to the President and the Ministry of Local Government opposing proposed demarcations, with some cultural institutions alleging external political interference. These conflicting claims have led to harmonization meetings, further complicating the path to district status.

Meanwhile, the Bundibugyo District Chairperson, Moses Tibakunirwa, acknowledges the lack of communication from the central government and points to potential boundary disagreements and broader fiscal constraints as reasons for the delay. He also stressed the urgent need for increased central government funding for Bundibugyo District’s infrastructure, particularly roads damaged by floods.

Residents, like Sarah Biira from Kisiti Sub-county, feel their hopes are dwindling, with many still undertaking long journeys to the current district headquarters. John Baluku from Mbatya Sub-county fears the promise is being used for political leverage, urging the government to expedite the process for better service delivery.

This situation remains a pressing concern for the residents of Bughendera County, who are eager for the promised administrative and service delivery improvements.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)