news 4 November 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Bukedi Leaders Welcome Shs90 Billion NUSAF IV Initiative to Combat Poverty

Local leaders in the Bukedi sub-region have expressed optimism over the Shs90 billion World Bank-backed NUSAF IV project, which aims to uplift impoverished households and tackle stunting starting in January 2027. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/bukedi-leaders-welcome-shs90b-nusaf-iv-poverty-alleviation-project-5658434

Leaders across the Bukedi sub-region have warmly received a substantial Shs90 billion government poverty alleviation initiative aimed at transitioning vulnerable families from subsistence farming into the formal money economy. The funding comes under the fourth phase of the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund (NUSAF IV), backed by the World Bank.

During a recent two-day induction meeting held at the Rock Classic Hotel in Tororo Municipality, State Minister for Northern Uganda Affairs Beatrice Akello Akor revealed that the sub-region was selected because it ranks as Uganda’s second poorest area after Karamoja. The initiative will span seven districts, including Tororo, Busia, Butaleja, Kibuku, Pallisa, Budaka, and Butebo.

The funds are designated for community projects, labour-intensive public works, and income-generating ventures. Additionally, a specialised nutrition grant has been carved out for mothers raising children affected by stunting, with Butaleja receiving a major share due to high prevalence rates. Eligible mothers will receive monthly stipends paired with vital nutritional education on preparing balanced diets from local foods.

Minister Akello strongly emphasised transparency, warning local officials against corruption and ghost beneficiaries. She noted that public notice boards must display verified beneficiary lists and clarified that the Inspectorate of Government will only provide monitoring oversight rather than project execution. Local leaders, including Tororo LC5 Chairperson John Okea and Busia Municipality Mayor Amin Sadiq Agele, pledged cooperation to ensure the funds successfully reach targeted households, while Tororo RDC Sadiq Bategana Bakale issued stern warnings of immediate arrest for any officials demanding bribes.

According to Daily Monitor, the initial financial disbursements under NUSAF IV are scheduled to commence in January 2027 following thorough community verification processes.