MPs Demand Accountability for Shs9.7 Billion OPM Coffee Deal

Parliamentarians are once again scrutinizing a substantial Shs9.66 billion government-backed coffee initiative, bringing renewed attention to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM). This comes as calls intensify for the OPM to provide transparency regarding the execution of the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund (NUSAF III).

The legislators’ renewed interest revives questions surrounding the coffee deal, which first surfaced in January 2024. At that time, reports indicated that a portion of the allocated funds was earmarked for an unusual purpose: teaching people how to drink coffee.

Details surrounding the project’s objectives, beneficiaries, and the specific allocation of the Shs9.66 billion remain a point of contention. MPs are seeking to understand how this significant public investment is being utilized and what tangible benefits are expected to arise from it.

The OPM has been under pressure to account for various programs, and this coffee deal has become another focal point for parliamentary oversight. The lack of clear information has fueled demands for a thorough investigation into the project’s management and outcomes.

Lawmakers are pushing for a comprehensive report detailing the procurement processes, the selection of implementing partners, and the measurable impact of the coffee project on the ground. The expectation is that public funds are utilized efficiently and effectively for the betterment of the intended beneficiaries, particularly in Northern Uganda.

This ongoing scrutiny highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in government-funded projects, ensuring that taxpayer money serves its intended purpose without wastage or mismanagement.

Read more: MPs query Shs9.7b OPM coffee deal