MPs Query Shs1.3 Billion in Foreign Travel Allowances for Local Trips Abroad

The Public Accounts Committee (Central Government) has raised concerns over significant funds paid to Ugandan officials serving in missions abroad. Specifically, Shs1.3 billion was reportedly disbursed for travel within the countries where these officials are stationed, but at rates typically allocated for international journeys.

During a committee meeting chaired by Hon. Patrick Oshabe, MPs questioned the rationale behind applying foreign travel allowances for domestic trips within countries like the United States. The Permanent Secretary, Vincent Bagiire, explained that Uganda’s domestic travel rates are impractical for major foreign cities, citing higher costs for accommodation and other expenses. He stated the ministry sought approval from the Ministry of Public Service to use foreign rates but has yet to receive a response.

Hon. Oshabe directed the ministry to furnish documentation validating their request to use foreign travel rates for these inland journeys. The committee also delved into the ministry’s financial management, including domestic arrears and discrepancies.

Separately, the committee addressed a payment of US$2.76 million made by the Ministry of Defence on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs towards Uganda’s contributions to the African Union. Mr. Bagiire clarified that this was a necessary measure to cover obligations for the AU Commission Summit, as supplementary funding attempts were anticipated to cause delays.

Furthermore, MPs were informed that the ministry requires over Shs25 billion annually to meet its commitments to international organizations and prevent arrears. A discrepancy between the financial statements and the Board of Survey regarding contributions to these organizations was noted, with the Head of Accounts attributing the difference to the verification status of the figures.