Minister of State for Finance- General Duties, Henry Musasizi, appeared before the Parliament of Uganda Committee on Budget today December 5, 2023 to defend the supplementary expenditure schedule for the fiscal year 2023/24. The budget request amounts to Shs. 3.500 trillion and aims to fund crucial areas such as rural electrification, water for production, road maintenance, and healthcare facilities.
During his presentation, Minister Musasizi explained that the sources of funding for the supplementary budget include borrowing from the domestic market, non-tax revenue, committed external funding, and fiscal consolidation measures. He emphasized that the proposed allocations were necessary for the acceleration of key development projects and the provision of essential services.
Among the specific initiatives outlined in the supplementary expenditure request, Minister Musasizi highlighted the organization of the national population and housing census, mass enrolment and renewal of national identity cards, infrastructure improvements for the military museum, and reinstatement of Uganda’s inter-governmental fiscal transfers financing. Additionally, funds would be allocated to the National Farmers’ Leadership Centre and Munyonyo convention Centre.
Of note, the State House and the Office of the President have been allocated the largest portion of the supplementary budget, with Shs. 311 billion designated for their operations. This allocation underscores the importance placed on these government entities in the current budget proposal.
The Parliament of Uganda’s Committee on Budget will thoroughly review the supplementary expenditure schedule, taking into account Minister Musasizi’s justifications and the proposed funding sources. The outcomes of this review will determine the approval and implementation of the supplementary budget, which aims to address critical developmental needs and enhance public services across Uganda.