Local leaders in Fort Portal City have agreed to withhold 25 percent of their allocated division funds in the next financial year to finance the purchase of a grader aimed at improving the city’s road network. The resolution was reached on Wednesday during a meeting in Central Division, chaired by Mayor Jorum Bintamanya and attended by chairpersons from the One and Two divisions, alongside other local leaders.
Although allocations vary depending on central government disbursements, most divisions reportedly receive between 150,000 and 300,000 shillings annually. However, some chairpersons said they have gone years without receiving the funds or any formal explanation from authorities. Mayor Bintamanya said the decision reflects the urgent need to improve road infrastructure in Fort Portal, criticizing the current reliance on Kabale District Local Government for road equipment as unsustainable.
Nyakwera Esther, LC1 Chairperson of Kagote A in Kagote Ward, said poor roads continue to hinder movement and service delivery in villages, adding that acquiring a grader would significantly improve accessibility. Kayemba Isaac, LC1 Chairperson of Kabale A in Bukwali, supported the initiative but urged leadership to ensure transparency in how the withheld funds are managed and strictly used for the intended purpose. He also noted that lower councils still require operational funds for basic administrative functions.
Moses Musinguzi, the Secretary for Finance, Planning and Administration in the division, said inconsistent disbursement of road funds complicates efforts to borrow equipment from neighbouring local governments. He added that the move to pool funds could help demonstrate the city’s need for its own road equipment fleet.
Rev. Kintu Willy Muhanga, the Fort Portal City Lord Mayor, praised the decision, saying it reflects a shared commitment among leaders to prioritize development. Mayor Bintamanya also urged civil servants to remain accountable and committed to service delivery, warning that negligence would not be tolerated. He commended the current political leadership for its focus on improving the city.
Kasande Dorcus Claire, Fort Portal NRM Chairperson, said the party is willing to work with any leader committed to improving service delivery, regardless of political affiliation-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
