By Nathan Eyagu
Kampala — The Government of Uganda will cease allocating public funds for the organization of national public holiday celebrations beginning in the 2026/27 financial year, according to the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury (PSST), Dr. Ramathan Ggoobi.
Speaking on the government's ongoing expenditure rationalization measures, Dr. Ggoobi announced that state funding will no longer be used to organize commemorative events for public holidays such as International Women's Day, Labour Day, Independence Day, and similar national celebrations.
The move forms part of broader efforts to reduce public spending and redirect resources toward key government priorities. Dr. Ggoobi explained that the funds previously allocated to such events will instead be invested in strategic development programs under the government's Agenda for Transformation, including the Agro-Industrialization, Tourism Development, Mineral-Based Industrialization, and Science, Technology and Innovation (ATMS) sectors, as well as other critical enablers of economic growth.
Under the new arrangement, national addresses traditionally delivered during major public holidays will be conducted through radio and television broadcasts from State House. President Yoweri Museveni is expected to communicate directly with Ugandans through these platforms instead of presiding over large state-funded celebrations.
Dr. Ggoobi noted, however, that government support will continue for a limited number of religious functions deemed nationally significant.
The policy is part of the government's wider fiscal consolidation strategy aimed at enhancing efficiency in public expenditure while ensuring that more resources are directed toward programs that stimulate economic transformation and improve service delivery.
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