MPs Push for Sustainable Financing to Transform Uganda's Regional Cities

Members of Parliament have called upon the government to ensure adequate, predictable, and sustainable financing for urban centres across the country. The appeal emphasizes the need to ring-fence domestic budget allocations for vital infrastructure such as roads, drainage systems, markets, and waste management to drive socio-economic transformation.

The push follows a motion moved by Soroti City Woman Representative, Hon. Joan Alobo, who stressed that cities must serve as functional engines of development rather than mere administrative title changes. Alobo noted that out of 15 approved urban centers, 10 are operational, including Arua, Gulu, Lira, Soroti, Mbale, Jinja, Masaka, Mbarara, Fort Portal, and Hoima. However, these operational cities reportedly struggle with understaffing, lacking physical development plans, and underfunded governance structures.

Legislators highlighted numerous challenges facing annexed sub-counties and wards, pointing out widespread deficits in electricity connectivity, piped water, and proper roads. Lawmakers like Hon. Ismail Kasule of Hoima West Division noted that areas like Hoima lack essential facilities such as a city hospital and reliable waste management systems. Meanwhile, leaders emphasized that while external financing—such as the World Bank’s US$540 million International Development Association support under the UCMID programme—provides critical relief, donor funds alone cannot sustainably build urban infrastructure.

In response to the debate, State Minister for Urban Development Hon. Margaret Muhanga acknowledged the immense potential of urban areas and affirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening policy and legal frameworks. Parliament continues to press for a costed implementation framework and dedicated financing windows to guarantee long-term development outcomes.

Read more details on the Parliament of Uganda.