VANESSA A
The Chief Administrative Officer of Rukungiri District, Fredrick Byekwaso, called for support from the outgoing council leaders to the incoming team for the next five-year term of office (2026–2031).
He made these remarks yesterday during the Rukungiri District’s last council sitting and the passing of the 2026/2027 financial year budget at the district headquarters in Rukiko Hall, while bidding farewell to the council leaders upon completion of their term of office.
Byekwaso highlighted that leadership does not only mean being in office, saying he is ready to work hand in hand with the outgoing leaders as well. He noted that this is not the end for them in serving the good of Rukungiri District, and called upon the outgoing leaders to support those coming in to ensure smooth service delivery.
Byekwaso further thanked the government for funding over UGX 62 billion for the 2025/2026 financial year, which helped in implementing most of the planned activities as per the budget. He cited the construction of classrooms and latrines in schools for children, improvement of district roads, and construction of seed schools, among others.
He also cited a few challenges, such as receiving insufficient funds to complete all budgeted activities. He gave an example of Omuburama Primary School in Bikurungu Town Council, where they were supposed to renovate four classrooms but only managed two due to limited funds. However, he noted that the Ministry of Finance has since provided additional funds, and unfinished projects like this will be completed in the next financial year.
Byekwaso further highlighted that some government funds allocated for salaries are returned to the treasury. For example, salaries meant for government teachers may be returned because the Ministry of Education and Sports did not deploy teachers to Bikurungu Seed Secondary School, yet funds had already been released. He added that such funds cannot be reallocated for other uses, and also mentioned cases of teachers who are absent from duty or have abandoned their posts.
He emphasized that the district has done all it can to ensure visible development, especially through commissioning various projects such as school infrastructure. He added that in the coming week, they will be handing over different government projects together with the RDC of Rukungiri District.
The Chief Administrative Officer concluded by appealing to leaders to maintain good health by eating well and remaining active. He urged them to continue attending meetings, noting that the trust given to them by the public for five or ten years should be upheld. He further highlighted that the increase to UGX 69 billion in the next financial year, compared to UGX 62 billion for 2025/2026, should be reflected in improved service delivery. He also noted an increase in local revenue mobilization from UGX 1.2 billion to UGX 1.5 billion.
