Politics 10 August 2026 Nile Post
Parliament Probes Gulu Cattle Restocking Program Amid Corruption Fears
A parliamentary committee is in Gulu City to scrutinize the government's multi-billion shilling cattle restocking program, investigating allegations of biased beneficiary selection and financial mismanagement. The program aims to restore livestock assets and livelihoods in northern Uganda but faces significant accountability challenges. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/362433/cattle-restocking-faces-scrutiny-as-parliamentary-committee-visits-gulu
The Presidential Affairs Committee of Parliament has commenced an oversight mission in Gulu City, focusing on the government’s ambitious cattle restocking initiative in northern Uganda. The visit comes as significant concerns mount regarding the fairness of beneficiary selection and the overall accountability of the program.
Chaired by Martin Ojara Mapenduzi, the committee began its engagements with local leaders, including the Gulu City Mayor and Resident City Commissioner. Their agenda includes a thorough examination of various government programs, with the cattle restocking scheme taking center stage due to widespread complaints about how beneficiaries are identified and chosen.
The government has significantly increased its financial commitment to the program, allocating Shs110 billion in the current financial year, up from Shs80 billion previously. The program’s objective is to rebuild livestock assets and enhance livelihoods in the Acholi, Lango, and Teso sub-regions, areas where cattle are crucial for economic well-being.
However, the implementation has been marred by accusations that local officials are favoring friends, relatives, and political allies in selecting beneficiaries. This raises serious questions about whether the program is effectively reaching the most vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and persons with disabilities, as intended.
The parliamentary team intends to question local authorities on the beneficiary vetting process, the distribution of cattle, ongoing monitoring, and financial accountability for the allocated funds. Each selected household is slated to receive support equivalent to Shs5 million, intended for five cows.
While the program is designed for a decade-long rollout, its success hinges on transparent beneficiary selection and ensuring that resources reach the intended recipients. The committee’s findings are expected to highlight critical areas for improvement or confirm the program’s positive impact on the targeted communities.
Source: Nile Post