MPs Question Foreign Travel Rates for Domestic Trips by Ministry Officials

The Public Accounts Committee (Central Government) has raised concerns regarding Shs1.3 billion disbursed to officials serving in seven of Uganda’s missions abroad. The funds were reportedly paid for travel undertaken within the officials’ respective countries of posting, yet at rates designated for international travel.

During a committee meeting chaired by Hon. Patrick Oshabe, legislators questioned the rationale behind applying foreign travel allowances for local journeys. They sought to understand why officials travelling between cities in countries like the United States, for example, were compensated at rates intended for international travel.

Permanent Secretary Vincent Bagiire explained that the ministry had sought approval from the Ministry of Public Service to use foreign travel rates. He argued that Uganda’s domestic travel rates are insufficient to cover the actual costs incurred in major foreign cities, citing accommodation and other expenses which are significantly higher than local allowances.

However, Mr. Bagiire noted that the Ministry of Public Service had not yet responded to their request for guidance. Hon. Oshabe has since directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to present documented evidence of their formal request to use these foreign travel rates for domestic trips within their posted countries.

The committee also delved into the ministry’s management of domestic arrears and financial record discrepancies. Separately, it was noted that the Ministry of Defence had paid US$2.76 million towards Uganda’s obligations to the African Union, a payment made on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ministry officials stated this was to meet commitments for the African Union Commission Summit and cover outstanding dues, citing concerns about delays in supplementary funding.

Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4595/mps-probe-use-foreign-travel-rates-inland-trips