By James Alomu

Soroti City Authority has unveiled a UGX 40 billion budget for the Financial Year 2026/2027, signaling renewed efforts to drive inclusive growth, infrastructure development, and community empowerment despite persistent challenges of inadequate funding and limited equipment. The budget conference, held at Soroti City Council Hall, brought together key stakeholders including council members, city department heads, and representatives from organizations such as AIC/TASO, TEDDO, Centenary Bank, and Housing Finance Bank.

City Planner Mr. Andrew Iteba revealed that the UGX 40 billion allocation was approved by the City Council to guide the next five-year development plan, with UGX 13 billion contributed through the Uganda Cities and Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID) program. He explained that the funds will be channeled primarily into improving city infrastructure, including roads, street lighting, markets, and public facilities, to enhance urban living standards.

Mr. Iteba emphasized that the budgeting process is participatory, ensuring that local leaders, youth, and residents contribute to setting development priorities. “A budget isn’t made by one individual. We want to consult our people since they know the priorities of the community,” he stated. He further noted that the new budget aligns with national development plans under Vision 2040, with a focus on economic empowerment through agriculture, job creation, and livelihood enhancement.

Deputy Town Clerk Mr. Joseph Mwesigwa commended the stakeholders for their active participation, describing the conference as vital for organizing Budget Framework Papers to be submitted to the Ministry of Finance.

Mayor Joshua Edogu highlighted this year’s theme, “Full Monetization of Uganda’s Economy through Commercial Agriculture, Industrialization, and Digital Service Expansion,” stressing that Soroti City’s plans align with national goals of agro-industrialization and digital transformation.

Deputy Resident City Commissioner Ayipo Claire urged the city administration to strengthen local revenue mobilization, enhance accountability, and encourage community participation in government programs such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga. She also advised the Physical Planning Department to enforce proper land use and protect wetlands to ensure sustainable urban development.