SOROTI DISTRICT LOCAL GOVERNMENT PASSES A BUDGET OF UGX 36 BILLION FOR 2024/2025 REFLECTS AN INCREASE BY 17.4 PERCENT

By Abraham Ekwaru, Communication Officer,

Soroti District Soroti District Local Government made history on Thursday last week as it passed a comprehensive budget of UGX 36,377,426,000, marking a significant milestone in the district's development journey.

The budget for the financial year 2024/2025 reflects a notable 17.4 percent increase from the previous year of UGX 30,976,449,000 underscoring a robust commitment to development across various critical sectors.

Presiding over the council meeting was Hon. Olebe Stephen, the Council Speaker, who guided the proceedings with an air of authority and purpose. Seated beside him was Mr. Ocen James Andrew, the Chief Administrative Officer, whose diligent work had been pivotal in the budget's formulation.

After months of consultations, reviews, and revisions, they were ready to present a financial plan tailored to address the district's most pressing needs and priorities.

As Mr. Olebe called the meeting to order, a respectful silence settled over the chamber. "Ladies and gentlemen, today we gather to make decisions that will impact the future of our district, specifically for the coming financial year.

We are here to review and approve a budget that reflects our commitment to development, education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

I now invite Hon. Enangu Samuel, the leader of government business, to present the budget." Hon. Enangu rose, exuding calm confidence as he approached the podium with a stack of detailed budget documents. "Good morning, everyone.

The proposed budget for the fiscal year amounts to UGX 36,377,426,000.

This budget has been meticulously prepared with input from various stakeholders to ensure that it addresses the key areas requiring our attention."

He began to outline the budget, breaking it down into its major components: •

Education: A significant portion was allocated to improving educational facilities, hiring more teachers, and providing learning materials. "Our goal is to ensure that every child in Soroti has access to quality education," Hon. Enangu emphasized. •

Healthcare: Funds were earmarked for upgrading health centers, purchasing medical supplies, and constructing staff houses for health workers, continuing the commitment shown in previous projects. •

Infrastructure: The budget included provisions for building and repairing roads, enhancing water supply systems, and expanding electricity coverage. "Improving infrastructure is crucial for economic growth and community well-being," he noted.

• Producation: Investments were planned for supporting local farmers through training programs, providing seeds and tools, and enhancing market access for agricultural products. • Social Services: Allocations were made for social welfare programs aimed at supporting vulnerable populations, including orphans, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

The detailed budget allocation included:• Education: UGX 5,443,400,000 for sector development. •

Administration: UGX 21,595,517,000 for administrative and miscellaneous expenses. •

Health: UGX 2,265,484,000 for healthcare infrastructure upgrades. •

Works and Technical Services: UGX 2,465,792,000. • Production: UGX 969,700,000.

• Water and Sanitation Services: UGX 1,203,235,000. • Natural Resource Department: UGX 486,846,000.

• Trade and Industry: UGX 66,336,000.

• Internal Audit: UGX 53,919,000.

• Statutory Bodies: UGX 589,991,000.

• Finance Department: UGX 435,911,000.

• Planning Unit: UGX 394,897,000.

• Community-Based Services: UGX 406,398,000.

As Hon. Enangu detailed each section, councilors nodded in agreement, recognizing the thoroughness and balance of the proposed allocations.

After his presentation, Hon. Olebe opened the floor for discussion. Hon. Owiny Bobo, representing Tubur Sub County, expressed his appreciation for the budget's comprehensive nature. "My community has long suffered from poor road conditions. I am pleased to see significant funds allocated to infrastructure. This will greatly improve transportation and accessibility."

Hon. Oyuru Anthony, with a background in education, added, "Investing in education is investing in our future. With better facilities and more teachers, we can ensure that our children receive the quality education they deserve.

I fully support this budget." After a robust discussion, with councilors expressing their views and suggesting minor adjustments, it was time for the vote. Hon. Olebe called for a show of hands, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.

"The budget is approved," he declared, and the chamber erupted into applause. This historic budget, amounting to UGX 36,377,426,000, marked a significant step forward for Soroti District.

It reflected a commitment to progress and a shared vision for a better future.

The District Chairperson, Hon. Edoru Simon Peter Ekuu, expressed his gratitude to the councilors for their tireless efforts in crafting a budget that addresses the district's pressing needs.

"This budget is a testament to our commitment to transparency and accountability. We are determined to make a positive impact on our community

." The district leadership has assured the public that the budget will be executed with utmost transparency and accountability, ensuring that the district's resources are utilized efficiently to drive development and improve the well-being of residents.

Ends