MUGABE R
Mr. Michael Musiime, the LC3 Chairperson of Nyarushanje Sub County in Rukungiri District, has announced plans to petition the Ministry of Works and Transport for an increase in road funds allocated to the Sub County.
He made this announcement on Thursday, October 17th, 2024, during his address at the 2024/2025 Budget Consultative Conference held at the Sub County headquarters.
Musiime expressed appreciation for the sub-county’s consistent and proper utilization of funds but highlighted that the current allocation is insufficient. He noted that Nyarushanje Sub County has over 250 kilometers of roads, with the Ministry’s Bills of Quantities (BOQs) estimating the cost of maintaining each kilometer at 2.8 million Ugandan shillings. However, the Sub County only receives 21 million shillings, which falls short of the required amount. Despite petitioning the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) previously without a response, he revealed plans to take the issue to the Ministry of Works and Transport.
Musiime also criticized local farmers for engaging in deforestation and farming on hillsides, which has damaged drainage channels. This has led to flooding that has claimed lives and destroyed property, including the recent loss of nine individuals, one of whom was a police officer. He called for voluntary efforts to combat these harmful practices.
Additionally, he appealed to the district veterinary authorities to lift the livestock quarantine, which has negatively impacted revenue collection and public income. Many residents are now struggling to pay school fees due to the restrictions.
Henry Kamugisha, the Sub County Chief, complained about the Integrated Revenue Administration System (IRAS), citing complications in revenue collection. He noted that poor network connectivity and delays in revenue returns from the Ministry of Finance have hindered service delivery.
Rugarwana Narasi Tom, the Councilor for the elderly and Deputy Speaker raised concerns over delayed financial returns, which he said undermines transparency in service delivery.
Sylvia Tuhirirwe, the councilor representing Ruyonza, expressed frustration over the increased risk to students’ lives due to flooding caused by bridges without culverts.
Nyarushanje Sub County has projected a budget of 187,527,125 UGX for the 2024/2025 financial year, which includes 38,231,026 UGX as non-wage funds, 21,706,446 UGX as road funds, 30,549,653 UGX as DDEG, 71,540,000 UGX as local revenue, 9,660,000 UGX as honoraria, and 15,840,000 UGX as ex gratia to be distributed across various departments.
