Staff Reporter
In a recent council meeting held on February 26, 2023, tensions ran high as councilors adjourned the session, awaiting clarity on pending issues presented in the District Chairperson’s report. However, a ray of hope emerged in the latest council gathering on March 5th, 2024, as the Chief Administration Officer (CAO) addressed concerns, leaving councilors optimistic about the future.
The primary bone of contention centered around the absence of stone dust, crucial for ongoing projects. Shedding light on the matter, the CAO cited specific conditions outlined in the PS/ST advice Ref. AGO/50/331/01 must be met before materials can be received. These conditions encompassed verifying donor legitimacy, providing ownership documents, valuing donated items fairly, notifying the PS/ST about asset donations, and updating the asset register. Notably, the CAO highlighted the lack of documentation from CHICO regarding the donation, adding to the delay.
The backlog in completing works for the previous financial year was attributed not to technical challenges but political instructions, leading to the redirection of equipment from Mpungu to various locations in December 2023. Consequently, unplanned works ensued, causing delays.
Moreover, the delay in servicing equipment stemmed from a shortage of mechanical imprest funds, exacerbated by the Uganda Road Fund’s non-release of funds since October 2023. Despite procuring oils and lubricants, servicing awaited the arrival of the Ministry of Works team.
On the front of infrastructure development, progress on the Kishegyere-Kanoni road hit roadblocks due to limited capacity and heavy rains in December and January, hampering bridge construction efforts.
Local leaders expressed a desire for an additional line for the bridge’s permanence. However, current rehabilitation works on roads have been completed, with plans for the second bridge to be executed separately.
The delay in implementing road works for the financial year 2023/2024 was attributed to procedural hurdles, including changes in grant utilization, communication from parliament, and delays in fund disbursement. Despite these challenges, approvals have been secured, and work plans finalized for the utilization of available funds.
Nonetheless, Kanungu District continues to await procurement requisition for the construction of Hajj Bali Bridge, as funds from the central government remain outstanding.
