Bugiri District

Mr Speaker, the people of Bukooli County North have suffered enough. Thousands of people who depend on the road connecting Bugiri Town, Bulugulu, Bufunda and Muwayo Town Council have suffered due to the flooding of Kibimba Swamp. Last month, three people lost their lives because of the floods in this swamp. My question to the Prime Minister is: how many more Ugandans must lose their lives before this issue – (Member timed out.)

Thank you, Mr Speaker, and congratulations. My question to the Prime Minister is: I have a bridge in Bugiri District that connects Bugiri to Butaleja. The Government of Uganda promised to work on that road 30 years ago. Recently, I visited the bridge. They had only worked on it 50 per cent, they abandoned it with the materials, and nothing is taking place. I request that the Prime Minister comes in and answer that, and then the Government takes action.

Mr Speaker, that is a strategic bridge. I direct the Minister of Works and Transport to go to Bugiri specifically for that bridge, come up with a report of what happened, get an answer, and act on it immediately.

Mr Speaker, for the past three weeks, Bugiri Main Hospital has had no essential medicine, forcing many patients to buy medicine from private pharmacies. My question to the Prime Minister is: given the urgency of the matter, is how soon can you cause the NMS to deliver medicine to Bugiri Main Hospital so that our people’s lives are saved? Mr Speaker, when it comes to issues of health, this Government must know that we do not need explanations; we need action.

Mr Speaker, I want to inform the Member that on top of the provision of essential drugs to Bugiri Hospital, the hospital is going to be rehabilitated, refurbished and equipped, but National Medical Stores (NMS) will provide essential drugs before the end of next week.

152 THE BUDGET SPEECH, 2026 Hoima (145km) and Matugga-Semuto- Kapeeka (41km), among others. UDC also invested in ETATS Construction Company, currently constructing the Bugiri-Namutumba Road (24km) and the Buwenge-Kaliro Road (48km), among others. d) The Government completed the Special Economic Zone at Entebbe International Airport to promote high value exports. Several firms, particularly in the fresh produce exports and light manufacturing, are setting up operations. e) Continued expansion of Presidential Zonal Hubs, which are tackling youth unemployment by providing practical industrial and vocational skills. To date, 82,790 youth have been trained and the number of hubs has grown to 28 nationwide. Mr President, thank you very much for this initiative. Financial Year 2026/2027 priorities for manufacturing and industrial development Mr Speaker, the Government has allocated Shs 1.03 trillion to the manufacturing programme for FY 2026/2027. Priority interventions include: i) Additional capitalisation of UDC to drive industrial development; ii) Industrial infrastructure development, particularly industrial parks including new fully serviced plug and play parks; iii) Value addition to agricultural raw materials and minerals; iv) Supporting market access for Ugandan manufactured products; v) Strengthening the functionality of special economic zones; vi) Industrial research including the establishment of regional industrial incubation hubs. Market access for wealth creators Wealth creators need access to both domestic and export markets. Expanding the domestic market requires higher household incomes and increased purchasing power to stimulate demand for locally produced goods and services. Export growth, on the other hand, requires deeper regional integration to access larger markets within the East African Community, COMESA, and the African Continental Free Trade Area. These opportunities are complemented by preferential and duty-free market access arrangements negotiated with key partners including the European Union, the United Kingdom, Russia, Serbia and the countries in the Middle East. To expand both domestic and export markets, the Government will continue investing in standards, quality assurance, certification and market intelligence to enhance the competitiveness of Ugandan products and services. To this end, the Government has so far implemented the following: i) Strengthened certification services to enhance efficiency. Additional personnel have been recruited and trained to increase capacity of the Uganda National Bureau of Standards to undertake certification, surveillance and enforcement of standards. Following automation, the turnaround time for import inspection reduced from three weeks to four hours. Product testing was reduced from 30 days to 14 days and product certification reduced from 180 days to 45 days. ii) Decentralisation and modernised certification services to enhance access. Construction and equipping of engineering testing laboratories are ongoing and expected to be completed by September 2026. The Government also commenced construction of regional laboratories in Mbale, Gulu and Mbarara. iii) Developed 450 standards for products and services and issued permits to 4,500 products.

legislative drafting, and conflict resolution, making him the best-suited Member to lead the 12 th Parliament as its Speaker. Furthermore, Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth has had an illustrious and distinguished career, serving in various key positions in the political and the Public Service of Uganda, including: a) Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs from 2024 to date; ii) Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs from 2001 to 2028; iii) Member of Parliament from 2011 to date; iv) The Chairperson, Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs from 2016 to 2021; v) The Chairperson, Committee on Rules, Discipline and Privileges in the Ninth Parliament; and vi) The Chairperson, Committee on Natural Resources in the Ninth Parliament. Your Lordship the Chief Justice, he was the chairperson of an ad hoc committee investigating the energy sector in Uganda (2011 to 2013) and a member of the parliamentary Business Committee in the Ninth and 10 th Parliaments, where he was also a Member of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association from 2011 to 2021, and the national President, Parliamentarians for Global Action – Uganda. Your Lordship the Chief Justice, he was the Acting Principal State Attorney/Head of Mbale Regional Office at the Attorney- General’s Chambers, Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, overseeing eastern and north-eastern Uganda, covering 24 districts of Iganga, Kaliro, Namutumba, Bugiri, Budaka, etc. He was the Deputy Attorney-General of Tieng Adhola Cultural Institution in 2003 to 2010, and a part-time lecturer at the Islamic University in Uganda (in the Faculty of Law) from 2007 to 2010. He was a board member in several civil society organisations between 1999 and 2010, and was a founding member and board chairperson, Community Aid CAN Uganda, an NGO serving the people in eastern Uganda. Your Lordship the Chief Justice and distinguished Members, Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth is a diligent leader who has immeasurably participated in shaping the destiny of Uganda and served Uganda with dedication and patriotism. The past leadership positions held by Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth as cabinet minister, state minister, Member of Parliament, chairperson of committees and civil servant have significantly shaped Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth and prepared him for service as Speaker. Honourable members, the person I present to you today for election as your Speaker in the 12 th Parliament of Uganda, Hon. Oboth Marksons Jacob, has been endorsed by the NRM Party, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda and other senior national leaders. Since the announcement of his candidature for the Office of Speaker, he has received support from Members of Parliament across the political divide and the general public. This endorsement reflects confidence in his ability to lead the 12 th Parliament effectively. I, therefore, have the honour to nominate Hon. Oboth Marksons Jacob for election as the Speaker of the 12 th Parliament of Uganda. I do this for God and my country. Thank you very much for your kind attention. (Applause)

7. Nankwanga Stellamaris Woman Representative Bugweri Independent 8. Nanzala Metrine Namisindwa County Namisindwa NRM 9. Nassolo Eugenia Rubaga Division South Kampala NUP 10. Nawe Molly Kamukama Woman Representative Kazo NRM 11. Ndeezi Alex PWD Representative N/A NRM 12. Ngabirano Charles Rwampara East County Rwampara Independent 13. Ninsiima Evelyne Woman Representative Rubanda Independent 14. Nnamara Annet Oyes Byamukama Woman Representative Buhweju NRM 15. Nyakato Asinansi City Woman Representative Hoima City PFF 16. Namujju Cissy Dionizia Woman Representative Lwengo NRM 17. Nyakato Dorothy Woman Representative Kitagwenda NRM 18. Namutaawe Joan Woman Representative Masaka NUP 19. Nayebale Sylivia Woman Representative Gomba NRM 20. Naziiwa Margret Woman Representative Kagadi NRM 21. Nkunyingi Muwada Kyadondo County East Wakiso NUP 22. Nuria Hafsa Teko Woman Representative Kotido Independent 23. Nangoli Gerald Elgon North County Bulambuli NRM 24. Nyeko Johnson Kezekiya Lamwo County Lamwo NRM 25. Obong Peter Acuda Maruzi County Apac UPC 26. Obong Vincent Shedrick Lira West Division Lira City UPC 27. Okiding Sam (Lt Gen.) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 28. Ofwono Opondo P’Odel Older Person’s Representative Eastern NRM 29. Ocen Geoffery Kioga North County Amolatar UPC 30. 3Ogwal Joseph Jones Dokolo North County Dokolo NRM 31. Ojara Martin Mapenduzi Bardege-Layibi Division Gulu City NRM 32. Nameere Justine Woman Representative Masaka City NRM 33. Nkrumah Roland Bufumbira County East Kisoro NRM 34. 3Ojiit Peter Pingire County Serere Independent 35. Ntabazi Harriet Bwamba County Bundibugyo NRM 36. Ocan Patrick Apac Municipality Apac Independent 37. Ogwang Patrick Obura Oyam County South Oyam NRM 38. Okaasai Sidronius Opolot Kumi County Kumi NRM 39. Oketcho George West Budama County South Tororo NRM 40. Oketcho John Francis Bugiri Municipality Bugiri NRM 41. Okeyoh Peter Bukooli Island County Namayingo NRM 42. Okot Peter Tochi County Omoro DP 43. Okumu Gabriel Okoro County Zombo NRM 44. Omara Paul Otuke County Otuke NRM 45. Omoding Emmanuel Serere County Serere NRM 46. Onek Hilary Obaloker Palabek County Lamwo NRM 47. Oneka Lit Amere Denis Kitgum Municipality Kitgum FDC 48. Ongom Patrick Erute County North Lira NRM 49. Ongu James Kwania North County Kwania NRM 50. Opito Vincent Dokolo South County Dokolo UPC 51. Nankabirwa Ann Maria Woman Representative Kyankwanzi NRM 52. Nantongo Fortunate Rose Woman Representative Kyotera NUP 53. Natumanya Flora Woman Representative Kikuube NRM 54. Naturinda Eliab Ndorwa County West Kabale NRM 55. Ngompek Linos Kibanda North County Kiryandongo NRM 56. Ninkusiima John Paul (Dr) Ibanda County South Ibanda NRM 57. Niringiyimana James R. Kaberuka Kinkizi County West Kanungu NRM

103. Ruhindi Fredrick Nakawa Division East Kampala NRM 104. Taban Aate Sharifah Woman Representative Koboko Independent 105. Ouma Willy Namayingo South County Namayingo Independent 106. Orone Derrick Gogonyo County Pallisa NRM 107. Tete Chelengat Everline Woman Representative Bukwo NRM 108. Tibyaze Peace Woman Representative Jinja NRM 109. Tom Aliti Candia Maracha East County Maracha NRM 110. Rwakimari Beatrice Ruhaama County Ntungamo NRM 111. Tumuramye Genensio Kashongi County Kiruhura NRM 112. Tumusiime John Bosco Kashari South County Mbarara NRM 113. Teira John Bugabula County North Kamuli NRM 114. Oryema Simon Peter Adum Chua West County Kitgum NRM 115. Turyahikayo Kebirungi Mary Paula Woman Representative Rukungiri NRM 116. Sebamala Richard Bukoto County Central Masaka DP 117. Tiyo William Taylor Odaa Ayivu Division East Arua City NRM 118. Ssebbugga-Kimeze Berunado Budyepo County Nakasongola NRM 119. Tayebwa Thomas Ruhinda North County Mitooma NRM 120. Otto Edward Makmot Agago County Agago NRM 121. Rwamirama Bright Kanyontore (Lt Col Rtd) Isingiro County North Isingiro NRM 122. Tebandeke Charles Bbaale County Kayunga NUP 123. Tukahirwa James Byenjuru Hunter Kajara County Ntungamo NRM 124. Tumukunde Henry Kakurugu (Lt Gen. Rtd) Rukungiri Municipality Rukungiri NRM 125. Tumwesigye Anthony Isingiro West County Isingiro Independent 126. Ssenyonyi Joel Basekezi Nakawa Division West Kampala NUP 127. Osoru Mourine Woman Representative Arua City NRM 128. Ossiya Solomon Alemu Toroma County Katakwi NRM 129. Shyam Jay Tanna Tororo Municipality Tororo Independent 130. Twalla Fadil Tingey County Kapchorwa NRM 131. Waluswaka James Bunyole West County Butaleja NRM 132. Tumwebaze Mwine Youth Representative Western NRM 133. Twinomujuni Francis Kazini Buhaguzi County Kikuube NRM 134. Otafiire Kahinda (Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Ruhinda County Mitooma NRM 135. Silwany Solomon Bukooli County Central Bugiri NRM 136. Otim Bernard Maruzi North County Apac NRM 137. Waiswa Joel Azalwa Busiki County Namutumba Independent 138. Ssemwanga Gyaviira Buyamba County Rakai NRM 139. Wakida Patrick Godfrey Kabweri County Kibuku NRM 140. Walyomu Moses Muwanika Kagoma County Jinja Independent 141. Wandera John Paul Samia Bugwe County North Busia Independent 142. Saazi Godfrey Gomba East County Gomba NUP 143. Wanyenya Shafiga Bungokho County North Mbale NRM 144. Twesige Stephen Buyaga East County Kagadi NRM 145. Twinamasiko Onesimus Bugangaizi East County Kakumiro NRM 146. Wandera Sadala Bugweri County Bugweri NRM 147. Tayebwa Didas Kabumbuza Kooki County Rakai NRM 148. Wanyama Judas Thadeo Youth Representative Eastern NRM 149. Sserukenya David Makindye-Ssabagabo Municipality Wakiso NUP 150. Sekindi Aisha Woman Representative Kalungu Independent

11 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 14 MAY 2026 153. Mao Nobert Laroo-Pece Division Gulu City DP 154. Mwiru Paul Jinja South Division East Jinja City NUP 155. Nabadduka Annet Woman Representative Kibaale Independent 156. Nabakooba Judith Nalule Woman Representative Mityana NRM 157. Nabawanuka Sumayah Mubende Municipality Mubende NUP 158. Nabirye Annet Woman Representative Luuka NRM 159. Nabukenya Brenda Woman Representative Luweero NUP 160. Nagujja Judith Woman Representative Buvuma NRM 161. Najjuma Sarah Woman Representative Nakaseke NRM 162. Nakadama Rukia Isanga Woman Representative Mayuge NRM 163. Nakawuki Susan Nsambu Mawokota County South Mpigi NRM 164. Nakazibwe Hope Grania Woman Representative Mubende NRM 165. Nakisita Betty Mpongo Woman Representative Namutumba Independent 166. Nakiyi Julius Muntu Budadiri County East Sironko NRM 167. Nakut Faith Loru Woman Representative Napak NRM 168. Nakweede Harriet Woman Representative Kayunga NUP 169. Naluyima Betty Ethel Woman Representative Wakiso NUP 170. Namanya Viola Woman Representative Ntungamo NRM 171. Namara Dennis Buyaga West County Kagadi NRM 172. Namatende Eunice Woman Representative Bugiri NRM 173. Nambaziira Florence Woman Representative Ssembabule NRM 174. Nambeshe John Baptist Manjiya County Bududa NUP The Uganda National Anthem The East African Community Anthem (The House rose at 4.15 p.m. and adjourned until Friday, 15 May 2026, at 8.00 a.m.)

3 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 13 MAY 2026 57. Alum Santa Sandra Ogwang District Woman Representative Oyam UPC 58. Akoth Angella Nzokire District Woman Representative Tororo Independent 59. Alero Tom Aza West Moyo County Moyo NRM 60. Anywar Ricky Richard Agago West County Agago NRM 61. Aogon Silas Kumi Municipality Kumi Independent 62. Aol Betty Ocan City Woman Representative Gulu City PFF 63. Arinaitwe Jeniva District Woman Representative Rubirizi NRM 64. Arinaitwe Rwakajara Katambuka Workers Representative N/A NRM 65. Aseera Stephen Buhaguzi East County Kikuube NRM 66. Asiimwe Florence Akiiki District Woman Representative Masindi NRM 67. Attan Okia Moses Soroti East County Soroti City FDC 68. Kiconco Katabaazi Patrick Rukiga County Rukiga NRM 69. Atuhwereire Arthur Kazoora Ruhinda South County Mitooma NRM 70. Atukunda Rebecca Mubangizi District Woman Representative Kassanda NRM 71. Atuto Jacinta District Woman Representative Kapelebyong NRM 72. Atwijukire Boaz Katerera County Rubirizi Independent 73. Alupo Jessica Rose Epel District Woman Representative Katakwi NRM 74. Atwijukire Dan Kimosho Kazo County Kazo NRM 75. Acora Nancy Odonga District Woman Representative Lamwo NRM 76. Atyang Stella District Woman Representative Moroto NRM 77. Auma Janet District Woman Representative Amolatar UPC 78. Auma Kenny District Woman Representative Kwania UPC 79. Avako Melsa Naima Gule District Woman Representative Yumbe NRM 80. Anyango Janet Hope District Woman Representative Busia NRM 81. Ayagalachi Jamali Bukooli County Bugiri NUP 82. Achia Remigio Pian County Nabilatuk NRM 83. Ayepa Michael Labwor County Abim NRM 84. Ayoo Janeth Phoebe Obol District Woman Representative Gulu NRM 85. Apolot Christine District Woman Representative Kumi Independent 86. Ayume Charles Koboko Municipality Koboko NRM 87. Avur Jane Pacuto District Woman Representative Pakwach NRM 88. Atugonza Allan Buliisa County Buliisa NRM 89. Baatom Ben Koryang Dodoth West County Karenga NRM 90. Babirye Kityo Sarah Bukoto County East Masaka NRM 91. Babirye Milly Babalanda Budiope West County Buyende NRM 92. Ariko Herbert Edmund Okworo Gweri County Soroti NRM 93. Kakooza James Older Persons Representative Central NRM 94. Awor Betty Engola District Woman Representative Apac NRM 95. Engola Sam Erute County South Lira NRM 96. Baryomunsi Chris Kinkizi County East Kanungu NRM 97. Nabbanja Robinah District Woman Representative Kakumiro NRM (The House was suspended at 11.38 a.m.) (On resumption at 1.29 p.m., the Clerk presiding.) 98. Auma Linda Agnes District Woman Representative Lira NRM 99. Babanga Wilfred Erima Terego East County Terego NRM 100. Babula Noel Kataike Matilda District Woman Representative Budaka NRM 101. Bahireira Sylivia Tumwekwase District Woman Representative Kamwenge NRM 102. Bakireke Nambooze Betty Mukono Municipality Mukono NUP

Just a small clarification, Madam Speaker. Maybe we can request the minister to write to the different town clerks of the different town councils in the country. He is saying they have suspended but it is still going on. Even yesterday, they evicted people in Iganga and Bugiri districts. Since the minister has committed that they have stopped, I request that the ministry write a letter officially and give a copy to Parliament so that the different civil servants are aware and –

18356 COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR Madam Speaker. In the motion I tabled, I cited certain statistics that I want to highlight further to justify the motion. According to statistics from the Ministry of Health, Uganda ranks fifth globally in sickle cell prevalence and third in Africa. About seven million Ugandans carry the sickle cell trait, and it is found across the country’s regions. Particularly in Lango, Alebtong District is most affected. In Busoga, Namutumba District, in Rwenzori, Bundibugyo District, in Bunyoro, it is Buliisa District, in Teso, it is Amuria District, with a prevalence of about 24 per cent. Other places like Bugiri, where I come from, have about 22.7 per cent. In Katakwi, it is about 20 per cent, in Kikuube, about 33 per cent,in Buliisa, about 26 per cent. About 9,000 babies die before 5 years. Madam Speaker, the statistics I am adumbrating do not relate to forests. They are not about stones. These are statistics on human beings and “Wanaichi” affected by this disease. These statistics have been exacerbated by the inadequate funding of this disease and the fact that, increasingly, there is declining development aid towards the health sector because most donors are not interested in funding non-communicable diseases. Madam Speaker, as I highlighted, the burden on families and household income is immense, arising from the cost of treating this disease. We all recall the case of a lady, Hope Fortunate Aciro, who spent about Shs 2 billion treating her two children in India, only for them to unfortunately pass on. You can imagine spending such amounts of money, but still your children die. At the political level, there are increasing community fundraising and funding requests from even us, Members of Parliament, whose families have been afflicted by this disease. Ideally, you require between Shs 300 million and Shs 1 billion to travel abroad, especially to India, for this treatment. The burden on us, even as MPs, is enormous arising out of this disease. There is increasing stigmatisation of the affected persons and increasing domestic violence in some areas, especially among women and children who are actually looked at as the cause of the disease and ailments of this nature, in our traditional and chauvinistic families. Madam Speaker, sickle cell warriors in our schools are mismanaged due to a lack of awareness, training, and basic facilities needed to make these schools safe places for learners. Simple actions like removing sweaters from learners can deteriorate their health and potentially lead to loss of life. However, due to a lack of awareness, you find that school authorities are implementing such kind of actions to the detriment of the children. Madam Speaker, I also want to mention that there are no specialised medical doctors for adolescents and adults with sickle cell disease. Paediatricians undertake all specialised sickle cell treatment in the country. This causes more stigma to the adults that are seeking treatment and more congestion in the paediatric clinics for the sickle cell. We also noted that unlike Human Immune Virus (HIV), we do not have a sickle cell registry in the country and it is because of lack of a structured testing programme. In light of what we have mentioned, we urge Government and this Parliament to consider a raft of interventions for purposes of addressing this scourge. All this can be possible if there are resources dedicated and committed. It is therefore incumbent upon us as Parliament to consider that while debating this motion. Once there are resources, we will be able to build a national registry for sickle cell disease to facilitate treatment. The capacity of health laboratories will be enhanced and this will enable comprehensive testing and also to scale up the treatment and care across the country. As Parliament, I would also humbly submit that MOTION

I would like to thank you for this opportunity. The clarification I want from the finance minister is that we are passing these loans, Parliament is processing them, and committees are doing their level best. Unfortunately, there are sometimes delays by the Government in executing the loan agreements. I would like to mention particularly, Madam Speaker, that I was recently in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and that we approved a loan here for the renovation of Bugiri Hospital. I engaged people at our embassy there, and the bank that is supposed to give us the money said that if we do not sign the agreement as soon as possible, there is a likelihood we will miss out on the money. I got concerned. Madam Speaker, you know these Arabs with their money, they do not care. I want to find out from the minister why they sometimes take so long, so we do not want Bugiri Hospital to miss out on that opportunity. That is information I got about two weeks ago when I was in Riyadh. The loan agreement had not been signed - (Interjections) – Yes, and I am the one who lobbied. Therefore, you need to come out clearly and explain why there was that delay, and whether we will not be losing that loan from the Arab Bank in Saudi Arabia.

Hon. Basalirwa, your task is to raise an issue or concern of the people of Bugiri, which you did comfortably. The other role of looking for money goes to the Minister of Finance. You did your part. Leave the other part of raising funds to finance.

Members, can we move? We are happy as people of Bugiri that the hospital is going to be worked on. The money will be available. Doctor, I will give you. Next item. (X) THE INTERPRETATIVE DECLARATION, RESERVATIONS BY THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA ON THE PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE EUROPEAN UNION AND ITS MEMBER STATES ON THE ONE PART AND THE MEMBERS OF THE ORGANISATION OF THE AFRICAN, CARIBBEAN AND PACIFIC STATES ON THE OTHER PART (SAMOA AGREEMENT)

Honourable members, I welcome you to this afternoon’s sitting. The Uganda Parliamentary Fellowship announces the Ninth Women Forum of the Uganda National Prayer Breakfast, which will take place on Tuesday, October 7th, at Hotel Africana, starting at 7.00 a.m. You are accordingly notified and invited. Honourable members, since the loan for upgrading Bugiri Hospital was approved yesterday, I have received a number of petitions requesting that all their hospitals be examined. The Ministry of Health needs to comprehensively examine dilapidated hospitals. The petition I received this morning was from Soroti Hospital, but leaving Soroti aside, there are so many other hospitals that need to be looked at, so that we can work on a number of hospitals. We thank them for the Bugiri Hospital, but we also want the other hospitals in the country to be worked on. I want to thank you so much. If you look at Kamuli Hospital - they call it Mulago - that hospital receives

Madam Speaker, I want to take this opportunity to thank you. I rise in reaction to your communication and thank honourable Members for Bugiri Hospital. I want to specifically thank you, as this is the second big achievement we are getting in Busoga under your leadership. You remember very well that the issue of Busoga University was sorted by you. Yesterday, Bugiri Hospital came and it passed in this House. I know more things are going to come. We are very proud of you, Madam Speaker, as Busoga and as Members of Parliament. I know you will take care of the interests of all the other regions so that we move together in unison. (Interruption) Point of information from Hon. Basalirwa.

Therefore, Madam Speaker, we want to request you, as the head of the Legislature in this country and all of us, honourable Members, that when we are going into the next budgeting cycle, we should give hospitals and our health centres a priority. I saw the happiness and celebration that the people of Bugiri had yesterday. It means when you touch health, you are touching the health and the lives of Ugandans directly. Therefore, in the next budgeting cycle, I request honourable Members to focus on all these other hospitals, like the ones that have brought petitions and even those that have not petitioned so that we move together and support the health sector in this country.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Why I threw my full weight behind that loan for the refurbishment of Bugiri Hospital is because Bugiri and Bududa Hospitals are among the 22 hospitals that were constructed after independence by the late Dr Milton Obote, and the concern -

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for allowing me to thank you for fighting for Ugandans. However, something is disturbing me. I come from Katerera Constituency, where I represent the people of Katerera. I have five sub-counties. The good thing with our Government is that they have provided us with health centre IIIs. Where there is a health centre IV, it is almost 16 kilometres from Katerera. Last year, two women died along with their unborn babies because of a lack of a health centre IV, and at the same time, the roads are very bad. Madam Speaker, it disturbs my mind, and I need your advice. We have given over $20 million to rehabilitate Bugiri Hospital, whereas in my constituency, I need only about Shs 1-2 billion to have a health centre IV. I kindly request our good government to give priority to other constituencies also, so that they have health centre IVs, because our people are dying. I thank you very much, Madam Speaker.

First, it was the four, including Yumbe and Kayunga, way back in 2019. Today, it is 2025, and up to now, the hospital has never been considered for rehabilitation. Madam Speaker, this hospital serves Congo, Ntoroko, and Bundibugyo Districts, and the population has grown. Even the only road which connects us to Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital has broken down and soon, we shall be cut off completely. This road is not being worked on, and yet it is the only road we have. The other hospitals have been rehabilitated and commissioned. Yesterday, we passed a loan for Bugiri Hospital under the same project that was supposed to be for Bundibugyo. We have not petitioned, but we shall not stop talking. We pray that Bundibugyo Hospital is urgently considered among the 20 that were mentioned or at any other opportunity that will come, but Bundibugyo Hospital should be prioritised.

Madam Speaker, yesterday we joined the people of Bugiri in celebrating, however momentarily it might be, that Parliament gave a green light for these $20 million to be gotten to rehabilitate Bugiri Hospital because that hospital is very sick. That is for sure. I am hoping that the excitement for the people of Bugiri will not be momentary. For many reasons, many times, we borrow money and it remains undisbursed. I hope this will not be the case because, as of the end of last year, in our country’s record books, we had Shs 16.4 trillion undisbursed loans, and last year, as a country, we paid Shs 74 billion in commitment fees. Those are fines you pay for money that was lent to you, but you are not utilising it. Once you have been lent money, they do not care whether you are utilising it or not; they have lent it to you. Last year, this was Shs 74 billion, which is like getting and throwing it in a pit latrine; commitment fees, and the Shs 16.4 trillion remain undisbursed. We need to stop this. Government, come and borrow money when you are ready to use it. My honourable brother might be excited, but I do not know how many years might elapse before this money is released. The hospital gets to be refurbished, because we have seen this happen again and again. Hopefully, we will get to do better because our debt burden continues to grow. We are now at Shs 107 trillion, but you see a good chunk of that is money we are not utilising. Why do we borrow if we are not

17966 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT ready to put it to use? Why? It does not make sense at all. I hope this is not one of those cases. Madam Speaker, we hope that, for the umpteenth time, the Government can come up with a comprehensive plan to refurbish health facilities in this country. Whether it be the infrastructure or staffing, there are numerous challenges. Busoga region alone, where Bugiri falls, as per the 2024 National Population and Housing Census, has an approximate population of 4.37 million. That is the Busoga region alone. How many functional hospitals are in that region? It is the second-largest population by region. How many can you talk about? And that is why now Bugiri is very excited that at least money has been borrowed to deal with this one. Widen the circle, go outside of Busoga. If every Member in this House across the aisle got a chance to talk about the health care situation in their constituency, you would be appalled. Health centres are non-functional, no doctors, and the theatres are full of bats and rats. In fact, doctors fear going there. They say, ‘We cannot go and work in those places.’ People are taken there, and what is there is probably Panadol. We need a comprehensive plan to revamp healthcare in this country. We cannot just do it piecemeal. Until when? You come with a comprehensive plan, tell us that for all your health centres, we will borrow money, however unsustainable that is, but let there be a plan. Let us come here and debate that plan. Tell us that this is what we want to do. This is how we will find that money to deal with the healthcare challenge in the entire country. Thank you.

I stand to support the motion moved by the minister and supported by Hon. Magogo. We are all excited by the performance of the Uganda Cranes. There is no doubt about that. I am fortunate that I watched all the games in Mandela National Stadium, with my father and mother. (Interruption) No, the wives did not come. (Laughter) Madam Speaker, as you are aware, my father and mother are number one fans of the Uganda Cranes. For every game, they would come from Bugiri and watch. I thank this Parliament -

Madam Speaker, I had issues with the minister addressing an individual, our Leader of the Opposition (LOP). Procedurally, Madam Speaker, I would have sought your indulgence that the minister addresses us so that you protect our LOP. However, Madam Speaker, in light of the fact that this is a self-explanatory statement, I beg to move that the statement be adopted and we go to other business. There is a loan for Bugiri, which is coming up. I beg to move that we adopt this document.

Please come and give her the details so that she can come back and respond. They will not give you an opportunity to speak if I have not allowed you, Hon. Katusabe – no, next item. You cannot cross the Floor? You can give the message to Hon. Sarah Opendi. (Laughter) MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION OF PARLIAMENT TO AUTHORISE GOVERNMENT TO BORROW UP TO US$ FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF AFRICA (BADEA) TO FINANCE THE REHABILITATION, EXPANSION, AND EQUIPPING OF BUGIRI GENERAL HOSPITAL

17947 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 10 SEPTEMBER 2025 Economic Development, BADEA, to finance the rehabilitation, expansion and equipping of Bugiri General Hospital. I beg to move.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I beg to lay the report of the Committee on National Economy, on the request by Government, to borrow up to USD 20 million, from the Arab Bank for Economic Development of Africa (BADEA), to finance the rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping of Bugiri General Hospital. I beg to lay. Madam Speaker, the minister has given the overall brief about the loan, and as the chairperson of the committee, I would like to say that this loan is highly concessional. It is meant to rehabilitate, expand, and equip Bugiri General Hospital. Madam Speaker, you referred this loan to the Committee on National Economy, and the committee had an opportunity to interact with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development on this loan, the Ministry of Health, the local leaders from Bugiri General Hospital, and the management of the hospital. We saw, as a committee, that the hospital is in a dire state, and it really requires Government intervention to refurbish and remodel it to modern standards. The committee made a number of observations and recommendations in line with our scrutiny. Madam Speaker, the Committee on National Economy, in line with the project impact on the health budget, observed that the rehabilitation, expansion and equipping of Bugiri General Hospital activities are not included in the Financial Year Budget of 2025-2026, which were approved under Vote 014 - Ministry of Health. In addition, the activities are also not included in the multi-year commitment of the Government plan. Madam Speaker, we bring this so that in future, as we borrow, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development should ensure that when they are bringing loans, they should be ready to handle these activities. The committee recommends that the Government should expedite the process of including the rehabilitation, expansion and equipping of Bugiri General Hospital to form part of the multi-year commitment for the Financial Year 2025/2026 and the medium term. As a result, the Government should adjust the fiscal framework to include any costs associated with the financing modalities of the project for the Financial Year 2025/2026 and in the medium term. The Government should scale up its commitment to increase the health sector financing if the project benefits are to be sustained beyond the project’s life span by ensuring that the current [Mr Musasizi] RESOLUTION TO BORROW

17949 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 10 SEPTEMBER 2025 costs due to the project are timely absorbed into the national budget. Building infrastructure of the old hospitals The committee noted that though the Government has been able to construct some new health centre IIIs and health centre IVs with a view of extending services nearer to the people and easing pressure on the major hospital, the renovation and rehabilitation of existing old facilities has lagged behind. The level of dilapidation within Bugiri General Hospital and indeed other old health facilities, for example, Abim Hospital and others, is still shocking. Most buildings need renovation, reconstruction or extension. The committee recommends that the Government expedites the process of renovating all the remaining old health facilities in the country, in light of the collapsed infrastructure systems in most of these old hospitals. Staff housing The committee also observed the continued non-availability of adequate staff houses in health facilities. The majority of staff houses, for example, in Bugiri General Hospital, require renovation because their dilapidated state is not fit for habitation. The lack of staff accommodation also has been cited as a major cause of failures to attract and retain staff, especially in rural-based health facilities. The committee recommends for the urgent need for the Government to provide better accommodation facilities for medical workers at all health facilities. Inability for health facilities to provide accommodation for medical workers is of great concern as it has highly contributed to the inability of local governments to attract and retain medical workers, even in the face of increased pay in the form of additional allowances. Medical staffing levels The committee further observed that Bugiri General Hospital lacked some of the critical medical personnel. This was in conformity with the general case across all other general health facilities in the country, where most of the critical medical vacancies are not filled up, leading to a high doctor-patient ratio. The committee recommends that the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Public Service and Bugiri Local Government should expedite the process of recruitment to fill vacant positions in the general hospital to reduce the doctor- patient ratio. Increased morale and efficiency The committee observed that upgrading facilities and working conditions in Bugiri General Hospital is expected to sufficiently boost staff morale and operational efficiency, thereby enhancing the overall quality of healthcare delivery. Modernised work environments, coupled with state-of-the- art equipment and resources, will create a more supportive and effective workplace for healthcare professionals. This improvement not only facilitates better performance but also contributes to a more positive and productive atmosphere, benefiting both staff and patients. The committee recommends the following: To maximise these benefits, the Ministry of Health should continuously invest in comprehensive medical staff development and wellness programmes. These programmes offer ongoing training, support career advancement and promote overall well-being, all of which are essential for maintaining high levels of medical staff satisfaction and productivity. By addressing both the physical and professional needs of the workforce, the project can foster a motivated and efficient team. This holistic approach not only improves workforce morale but also translates into superior patient care and a more successful

Let me go to the piecemeal rehabilitation of general hospitals. The committee noted, with concerns, the piecemeal and adhoc nature with which government was coming up with the rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping of this general hospital, yet many of the old general hospitals across the country were in dire need for rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping, with the exception of a few general hospitals recently renovated, such as Kayunga, Kiryandongo, Yumbe, and Kawolo general hospitals. The Government, through the minister responsible for finance, intimated to the committee that it plans, in the medium term, to prioritise, among others, the construction and rehabilitation of more health infrastructure and the provision of medical equipment to improve quality of care, and the provision of specialised health care services. These include, among others, completion and refurbishment and the equipping of general hospitals that include Abim, Apac, Atutur, Bundibugyo, Kiboga, Kagadi, Kitagata, Kitgum, Pallisa, Itojo, and Masindi. Members noted the need to come up with a project model funding targeting all old and dilapidated general hospitals for rehabilitation. It is recommended that Government designs a comprehensive project model for the rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping of general hospitals across the country in a systematic way as opposed to carrying out piecemeal arrangements. This help us to match the current practices and technologies which were adopted in the new National Standards Designed for health centre facilities 2012. In conclusion, Madam Speaker, the committee has noted the Government efforts to address health systems bottlenecks and improve the effectiveness of the health sector. This project aims to enhance the quality of care in Bugiri General Hospital by upgrading and equipping it with the modern medical equipment and [Mr Ikojo] RESOLUTION TO BORROW

17951 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 10 SEPTEMBER 2025 facilities, thereby improving patient outcomes and overall health care delivery. Additionally, improved facilities and working conditions will boost staff morale and efficiency, aiding in the retention of skilled health care professionals. The committee, therefore, supports and recommends to this House the approval of the Government request to borrow up to $20 million from the Arab Bank for Economic Development of Africa to finance the rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping of Bugiri General Hospital. I beg to report.

Madam Speaker, I thank you so much and in a very special way, I thank the committee chairperson, for a very good report, I also thank and the committee members, and the minister, my OB, and formerly a member of my political laboratory, thank you so much. This is the best loan that this House has procured for Bugiri General Hospital. One time, the former prime minister had a chopper accident in Bugiri – (Interjection) - I am building the motion –( Laughter) - Prof. Nsibambi was taken to Bugiri Hospital. He could not stay there for three minutes because of the condition of Bugiri Hospital. They had to call all types ambulances from nearby; he was brought to Kampala immediately. I said, “Former prime minister” because at that time, he was the prime minister. Bugiri, as a district, and Bugiri General Hospital serve the neighbouring districts, including people from Kenya –

Yes, it is on the highway. People from DRC and Tanzania all benefit from Bugiri General Hospital -(Interjection) - yes, when the trailer drivers from DRC, get into accidents. Bugiri serves all the neighbouring districts, including Mayuge, where the 3 rd Deputy Prime Minister comes from. They find their way to Bugiri General Hospital. Therefore, I am glad, that the Government is also heeding my advice. When we passed the Anti-Homosexuality Act, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank decided to cut funding, I advised that we should seek funding elsewhere, and I am glad that it is happening, and we are now in the Arab Bank, although we are repairing our relationship with the World Bank and IMF. I am very grateful that you are doing so. In light of the straightforward nature of this report, and the excellent work done by the committee chairperson and the minister, I beg to move that this House unanimously and unequivocally, adopts the report of the committee, so that Bugiri General Hospital gets the role. I beg to move.

17952 TRIBUTE TO THE UGANDA NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM the rehabilitation, expansion and equipping Bugiri General Hospital. (Question put and agreed to.)

Okay, let me give you the summary if that is what you want. Commitment fees paid on these undisbursed loans in the financial year under review is Shs 73 billion. The committee observed that the total commitment fees was - Let me give you another figure that will really throw you off balance. Let me take you to another - (Interjection) – now you are disorganising me. When I look at contracting incompetent companies - you wanted us to say - during interaction with the accounting officers, the committee established that the causes of undisbursed funds were majorly due to: i) Failure to meet project milestones and timelines by implementing agencies; ii) Contracting incompetent companies; iii) Weak contract management and supervision by accounting officers; iv) Variations in project scope from approved plans without approval from a government development committee; v) Commencing project without feasibility studies; vi) Delayed acquisition of right-of-way by infrastructure projects; and vii) Poor conceptualisation of projects, among others. During the rice project implementation by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industries and Fisheries in two districts of Bugiri and Bugweri, the Auditor-General noted the inadequate capacity of a contractor - he has put a figure here - this was a contractor advanced Shs 15 billion to do mobilisation of equipment, among others. We have a list of the equipment this fellow mobilised and their functionality. He mobilised equipment that are not even functional but this is a contractor on a project –

I read the report. Now you know I read the report. Under the rice project implemented by the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries in the two districts of Bugiri and Bugweri, the audit noted that the contractor was advanced Shs 15.049 billion on 23 February 2023 to enable the contractor to mobilise sufficient equipment for execution of works. The funds were advanced as follows - the details are put there. During inspection, the Auditor-General

The Minister will give us a report in relation to power. Yes, honourable from Bugiri.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I would like to find out from the Prime Minister when the implementation of the USMID programme in Bugiri Municipality is commencing. Madam Speaker, I am aware that there is government support to municipalities, which extends to constructing tarmac roads and street lighting for municipalities; it is a special government programme. It has been implemented in other municipalities, and I would like to find out when it is coming to Bugiri, because as you are aware, Bugiri is the first important town as you enter Uganda from the other side of the country. So, it is an embarrassment for it not to be benefiting from the municipality.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. That is why I am asking; when is the implementation commencing, and that is the commitment- because, each financial year, I raise this matter and my jajja should come on the Floor and face the people of Bugiri. Jajja , you come on the Floor and face the people of Bugiri.

17497 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 5 JUNE 2025 Ssembabule-Mateete-Mbiriizi with a branch to Kibinge-Kyabakuza; Myanzi-Kasanda-Kiboga – abantu bange abe Kassanda akalulu mukatereeze; Kikagate Kitwe-Mirama Hill – Mama was about to kill me on this one here. Kati mponye; Kabiingo-Rugaaga-Magabi-Rakai; Luweero-Butalangwa-Ngoma-Bulyamusenyi- Masindi; Kayunga-Bbale-Galiraya. I am going to get additional money for these roads because we have been talking about them for a long time. These will be in addition to the completion of the following roads: 92km Muyembe- Nakapiripirit and 25 kilometres of service roads; 21km Kira-Matugga Road and improvement of five junctions, 26 kilometres of Tororo-Busia Road and Mayuge and Busia Town Roads, 6.6 kilometres of Kawuku-Bwerenga Road, the 100-kilometre Apac-Lira-Puranga road – these are already being worked on. They are going to be finished – and 1.6 kilometres to Namugonde-Bugiri fuel tank reservoir. The roads for maintenance or reconstruction include – 1. Kampala-Jinja Highway – 72 kilometres; 2. Busunju-Kiboga-Hoima – 145 kilometres; 3. Mityana-Mubende Road – 86 kilometres; and Mubende-Kyenjojo Road, 95 kilometres; 4. Mityana Town roads – 14 kilometres – ab’eMityana mutereze akalulu banange. Buno obuli eyo tebulina kyebukola, butabula. Muleta obusajjasajja – 5. Alwii-Nebbi Road – 33 kilometres – this is in West Nile - Pakwach and Nebbi Town roads; 6. Olwiyo-Pakwach Road – 62 kilometres; 7. Matugga-Semuto-Kapeeka – 41 kilome - tres – (Applause) Waliyo akasajja eyo e’Nakaseke. Abantu bange, mutereze ebigambo ebyo, obusajja obwo bugende bukole ebirala. 8. Tororo-Mbale-Soroti. This is a long one. 9. Soroti-Dokolo-Lira-Kamdini Road – 189 kilometres. These are ongoing already. 10. Karuma-Olwiyo – 43 kilometres; 11. Masaka-Kyotera-Mutukula Road – 89 kilometres; 12. Nyendo-Villa Maria Road – 11 kilometres; 13. Access Roads – 7 kilometres and rehabilitation of 166 kilometres equivalent of national roads that have reached their service life. What they call “service life” is zikadiye . The strategic bridges to be prioritised – there is a road in Mpigi, Kasanje – aka’town akalala bakayita batya? Kisubi. Waliwo aka town eyo munda akalala; Nakawuka. Elyo sirilabye wano. Tulina okuriteekako nalyo. Naye abantu batereze obululu banange. The strategic bridges - so I will have to add that road. I thought we had started on it. The strategic bridges to be prioritised in the next financial year include the Sezibwa Bridge along Kalagi-Kayunga Road, Katonga Bridge, Lwera Swamp, and Kalandazi Swamp. Electricity In 1986, the whole country had only one hydropower plant; Nalubaale, formerly called Owen Falls Dam, built by the British in 1954, and commissioned by our late auntie, Queen Elizabeth, with the maximum capacity of 150 megawatts of hydroelectricity. There are now four large hydropower plants at Nalubaale, Kiira, Isimba and Karuma, with a combined generation capacity of 1,163 megawatts. Other sources such as Kigwabya and XsaboKonge Solar Power in Mubende have added another 888 megawatts. This brings the total installed electricity generation capacity to 2,052 megawatts. However, given the growing electricity demand arising from the new manufacturers, this is very inadequate and the available capacity will run out in about five years from now. When people talk of surplus, there is no surplus. It will very soon be overtaken.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. It is very unfortunate that up to now, we are still lamenting about the roads in this country. That is why you see most of our colleagues in the Opposition are smiling. In the National Development Plan (NDP) III and NRM manifesto, it was clearly indicated that the Namutumba-Busolwe-Nabumali Road was supposed to be upgraded in the Financial Year 2022/2023. All of us were excited. I did not even sleep, reading through the entire report to see where I would find that road. Unfortunately, it is not even mentioned as one of the roads that anyone is dreaming of being upgraded. Mr Speaker, Butaleja District is in Bukedi, which has seven districts but only one district, Butaleja, does not have tarmac, which is very unfortunate. Honourable minister, please, can you think about this road? The moment you work on this road, people from Lwakhakha will never go to Mbale; they will use that shortcut. People from Malaba will never use Bugiri Road; they will use this shortcut. In one way or the other, we shall be saving a lot economically in terms of fuel, distance and so on. It is my humble prayer that we make this road a priority, so that we also improve the lives of the people of Butaleja. Two, in the report, you are talking about what I would call a conflict between UCAA and the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries. You are talking about – (Member timed out.)

16664 MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION [Ms Nabbanja] PRIME MINISTER’S TIME in this region. Feasibility studies and site assessments are being conducted and plans are underway to secure funding and commence construction in the Financial Year 2025/2026. ii. On the support of Holy Family Missionary Hospital, given the critical role of the Holy Family Hospital in Nyapea in providing health care services to the people of Zombo District and neighbouring areas, the Government acknowledges the urgent need for infrastructure improvements. In 2019, assessments condemned key facilities, including the outpatient department and maternity ward. The Ministry of Health is exploring interim support measures such as the feasibility of allocating funds for renovations and deploying medical personnel to bolster the hospital’s capacity while plans for a new hospital are being finalised. Hon. Gafabusa Muhumuza, Bwamba County, Bundibugyo says, “The Bundibugyo General Hospital is in a very bad state in terms of physical infrastructure, obsolete medical equipment and gross inadequate medical personnel. The district leadership, including Members of Parliament, has raised this matter several times to the Government, but there has not been a satisfactory response. The X-ray machine stopped working last year and their people are suffering as they are referred to Fort Portal. His prayers are: i. When is the Government going to do general rehabilitation of the hospital? ii. When will the Government procure and deliver the necessary equipment, including the X-ray machine, operating tables, operating trolleys and lamps, and instrument sets for different surgical procedures.” Mr Speaker, my response is that Bundibugyo Hospital is currently facing challenges related to congestion, dilapidated infrastructure, outdated equipment and understaffing. That is true. The Ministry of Health is currently prioritising expansion and rehabilitation of hospitals to match the new structures at different levels. The Ministry of Health is currently assessing all the hospitals and facilities in order to come up with a comprehensive plan that includes the following: i. Infrastructure expansion and rehabilitation, increasing bed capacity and improving existing buildings to meet current health care standards and also reduce patient congestion; ii. Provide modern medical equipment; iii. Ensure that the utilities, that is water and power, are of quality in terms of reliability and stability; and iv. Recruiting additional health care professionals and providing continuous training to improve service delivery. Mr Speaker, the Government is exploring funding sources to expedite the renovation process and address the pressing needs of Bundibugyo Hospital and many others like Masindi, Kagadi, Bugiri, to mention but a few. The fourth question came from Hon. Dr Abdul Byakatonda, MP Workers and his prayers are: i. “What immediate measures is the Government implementing to mitigate the impact of the U.S funding freeze and ensure uninterrupted HIV treatment for 1.4 million Ugandans? ii. What strategies are in place to prevent job losses or reintegration to get high-level skills among Uganda’s 12,551 community health workers whose roles are now at risk due to the withdrawal of U.S support? iii. Given that Uganda currently allocates only 6.5 per cent of the national budget to health, when will the Government fulfil its Abuja Declaration commitment to increase health funding to 15 per cent?

16548 THE CONTRACT FARMING BILL, 2023 Tuesday, 4 March 2025 Honourable colleagues, on a sad note, I regret to inform you of the passing on of the father to Hon. Agnes Taaka, MP Bugiri. The late Wandera passed on Thursday, 27 February 2025. He will be laid to rest in Namayemba Town Council, Bugiri District on Thursday, 6 th March. I request that we observe a moment of silence in his honour. (Members rose and observed a moment of silence.)

Madam Chairperson, I think we should be very careful with dichotomising injuries and where they occur. We should be extremely careful. Otherwise, this law is likely to even lose the human face. Take an example: you are on leave, and you get an injury. Realistically speaking, that is not in the course of employment; you are on leave. How do you then say that does not concern the Fund? You have gone to Bugiri and have fallen in a bathroom, which is really an accident. Later, you come and argue that you see, that does not concern us; what were you doing in the bathroom? This law is going to lose the human face. I want to ask the learned Attorney-General what the idea of - if it is really injuries – Yes, information from “ Hajjat ”.

Madam Speaker, I am lucky that I worked as a Minister of State for Health General Duties, so I know most of these things. We are rehabilitating hospitals in a phased manner. We started with three: Kayunga and Yumbe hospitals. We are going to add Bugiri and Masindi hospitals -(Interruption)- No, but I am telling you the truth. I am giving information from the main source. Yes, because I am the Leader of Government Business. PRIME MINISTER’S TIME

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would like to thank the committee for the report. This is an emotive matter. I am a victim of this. We suffered because of cattle raiding. We suffered because of the activities of Lakwena. This is an emotive question, and our hearts are bleeding. Our people have really suffered. Now that they are resettling, they are asking, when shall they be compensated by the Government, not only on the question of cattle but on the collapsed institutions of Government such as schools, health centres, roads - name them. We have suffered. Let me tell you a story. In 1987, the Government by that time said, “We have now captured power and civilians should hand over the guns.” You remember that very well – (Interjections) – honourable members, I do not want interference. I said this is an emotive matter. The people handed over the guns. The Government of Obote by that time had recruited militias among the civilians who were protecting their property. When the National Resistance Movement (NRM) came in and said we are now free of this, people handed over guns. The following day, raids occurred. Over 50 kraals were raided of over 200 cows in Soi – (Interjections) – some honourable members may take it as a joke but this is the truth. If you go to Serere Bugiri, Soroti, or Bukedea, right now, those Sabinys are there. For those who survived with their cows, as they were moving on the way, their cows were confiscated by the security forces again and taken. Their names are appearing now on the compensation list of Teso but the names “Che…Che” cannot again be compensated in Teso. This is where the problem is. How do we really manage this situation? Attorney-General, you have said that Sebei is not part of your mandate. Do you need a law for it? Do you need a law? We appreciate the fact that you have talked about the issues to do with the Acholi. Yes, very right; they suffered. Teso suffered. Equally, other subregions suffered the way Members have raised concerns, we are talking about equity in terms of the distribution of resources in this country. If we had regional referral hospitals, then we would be happy. If we had health centres iv, we would be happy. If we had ambulances, we would be so happy because that is the process of compensation of resources and equity in this country. Thank you. (Applause)

Thank you, Madam Speaker. My name is Agnes Taaka, Woman Member of Parliament, Bugiri. Listening to Members here, I thank you for this innovation, but I pray that we have another innovation where every Member gets an opportunity in the whole sitting to have something to say. It seems Members have a lot of issues in their hearts. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. My name is Stephen Mugabi Baka. I represent Bukooli County North in Bugiri. I am NRM. I am also the Chairperson of the Sectoral Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs. Madam Speaker, as the chairman of the committee that exercises oversight over Parliament, I wish to thank you for this historic initiative and for that reason, Parliament is becoming exciting. Remember I had said that Baka is gone, but now I am saying Baka is back - (Laughter) - such that Bugiri could also get an opportunity in the next Parliament when I am there. Additionally, my quick observation is that we are moving very well and we are very proud of you as a committee. Thank you very much.

Mr Speaker, at least I was a minister for health and I know that we are rehabilitating these hospitals in a phased manner. Masindi is for next financial year. Then, we will have Kagadi and Bugiri in that order. Masindi is going to be rehabilitated, I promise. Kambuga is being rehabilitated. Be patient. We are coming.

Honourable colleagues we are debating and I want you to bring out all these questions because, in the end, this is a matter which must go to the Natural Resources Committee. When they bring these risks here, it is very difficult to scrutinise deeply. I know the minister can engage with the committee very well. They scrutinize, in detail, and then Members can appear before the committee, for those who have issues. Then we have this matter well concluded. I have picked mostly men; I want to pick ladies first. Therefore, I request all men to sit. I will start with ladies who have been here, not those who just entered. The ones who just entered know themselves. Honourable members for Kiboga, Kalangala, Dokolo, Gulu, you are very many. Honourable member for Mukono, because you have complained, honourable member for Mbale. This is time for ladies, you are men. Honourable members for Masindi, Buhweju, Sheema, Kumi, Napak, Bugiri, Fort Portal, Jinja, Abim, and Adjumani.

Member for Napak, Shema, Buhweju and Kumi then I pick Bugiri, Terego, Jinja and Fort Portal. For areas where you do not see your Woman Member of Parliament, you can declare yourself a woman and then I will see what to do. (Laughter)

Kumi and, then, Bugiri.

Honourable member for Bugiri and the then honourable member for Terego.

13938 MINISTERIAL STATEMENT Over the weekend, other trucks came in with more poles. In Butembe County, the survey was done around March. It is my humble prayer that the contract is signed and they get to work. Regarding transformers, we have centres like Buweera in particular, where they cannot use maize mills. The transformers have low voltage. We talk about value addition, but if someone cannot add value to their maize, then it becomes a problem. My village is called Wairaka B in Kakira Town Council, but the rate at which transformers get spoilt is alarming. I do not know whether the transformers are faulty. When it comes to Government counterpart funding, it is an issue for all the loans that we come up with. I do not know what the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development thinks, but maybe we should reduce the loans and go somewhere we can fund this. As my sister from Bugiri asked, “Why wouldn’t Jinja, the host of the first dam be fully connected? Why shouldn’t Busoga be connected? I am not being selfish. I am only being realistic. When it comes to other areas, they have benefits. Electricity is what we can get from the Government as Busoga. Thank you.

s/N Hospltal Name Dlstrict 1 Abim General Hospital Abim 2 Adjumani General Hospital Adiumani 3 Amuria General Hospital Amuria 4 Apac General Hospital Apac 5 Bududa General Hospital Bududa 6 Bugiri General Hospital Bugiri 7 Kawolo General Hospital Buikure 8 Buliisa General Hospital Buliisa 9 Bundiburyo General Hospital Bundibugro 10. Masafu General Hospital Busia 11. Busolwe General Hospital Butaleja L2. Gombe General Hospital Butambala 13. Iganga General Hospital Iganga t4. Buwenge General Hospital Jinja Kaabong General Hospital Kaabong 6 15. Kaberamaido General Hospital Kaberamaido Kagadi General Hospital Kagadi Kamuli General Hospital Kamuli L9. Rukunyu General Hospital Kamwenge 20. Kambuga General Hospital Kanungu 2L. Kapchorwa General Hospital Kapchorwa 22. Bwera General Hospital Kasese 23. Katakuri General Hospital Katakuri 24. Kiboga General Hospital Kiboga 25. Kiryandongo General Hospital Kiryandongo 26. Kisoro General Hospital Kisoro 27. Kitgum General Hospital Kitgum 28. Koboko General Hospital Koboko 29. Kotido General Hospital Kotido 30. Atutur General Hospital Kumi 31. Kyegegura General Hospital Kyegegwa Annex la: List of Publtc General Hospitals in U nda 19 lz ,/ta.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I also thank you for the wise guidance you have issued. Indeed, this matter can only be decisively handled by the Committee of Health. The minister highlighted 78 centres that have grown from 58 to 78 but I can see outright that we have 62 general hospitals, 17 regional referral hospitals, which brings the number to 79. I have not talked about the specialised hospitals like the Uganda Heart Institute, the Uganda Cancer Institute, the Mulago Specialised Women and Neonatal Hospital and the national referral hospitals, meaning, there are gaps we can exploit to really widen the number of interns. Mr Speaker, Kamuli General Hospital has not received interns despite having specialists. It has a paediatrician, a surgeon, and four obstetricians but no intern received. Bugiri Hospital, which has a small number of specialists has interns. This is to highlight that there are still gaps. Last and most important, Uganda has ever registered its name in the area of medicine. You can go to South Africa and many other African countries and find Ugandan doctors there. I have colleagues who are teaching and working in Namibia. There is something we did very well at that time to write our name high in the field of medicine. What we have been doing is that we have been paying interns and supervising them directly. There should never be a reason for us to stop doing what we have been doing right and what has made us write our name up there. (Member timed out.)

13588 TRIBUTE TO THE L A TE H ON. S I MON P E TER A L E P E R She woke up in the middle of the night to get in touch with A-Plus Funeral Services, together with Captain Mike Mukula. They were able to pick the body from Iganga, have it treated, and brought to Mulago Hospital. Mr Speaker, we want to thank the Speaker and your office for that response. (Applause) Secondly, I would like to thank the Central Executive Committee and the President for being in touch throughout this terrible time and quickly deciding that at his level of a member of the Central Executive Committee, he should be accorded an official burial. I would like to correct the write-up of my brother, Hon. Ssewungu. Most of you know Tirinyi Road from that corner called Bukoona. Hon. Aleper was knocked at around 1.00 a.m. on a straight road. Before reaching where he was knocked, there are humps. He was coming from Mbale to Kampala, just 6.3 kilometres before joining the Iganga-Bugiri-Tororo Highway. In addition, it was not a head-on collision. Up to now, the front of the car – which is at Iganga Police – is intact. It seems to me – because if it had been a knock on the side and if it was a car in motion, it would have overturned. It seems to me that Hon. Aleper had foreseen a trailer coming and moved onto the side of the road. However, the oncoming trailer – we imagine it was a trailer because of the knock on his door. He was the one driving and the tyre marks are on the side of the door up to today. That trailer, or whatever it was, was very big because the tyre marks reached the window level of a Toyota Land Cruiser V8, and the side of the car bore blue and yellow paint marks. The car did not overturn. It knocked him on the side and he died on the spot. Hon. Ssewungu, please tell your Leader of the Opposition to correct this write-up. It is not true. We are mourning. It is now 72 hours later but we have not received a report on the whereabouts of the killer truck. We have been told that it is unknown and it seems to me that it is going to be like what happened to late Hon. Okabe. We want to hear from the Government how far the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the police and the CIID have gone with the investigations to apprehend the killer truck. In the circumstances, even at the entrance to Tirinyi Highway, there are cameras at that corner and along that road. How come, up to this moment, the people of Karamoja have not been told the whereabouts of the killer truck? Please, we need that statement from the Government. At the level of Hon. Aleper, a member of the Central Executive Committee, up to now, we do not even know whether there is a specialised unit of Police following up on this truck. We have not got any information - at least we, Members of the Parliament, the Chairman of Karamoja Parliamentary Group, and the family have not got any information about the killer truck. The longer it takes, the more it will give people room to start suspicious talk. Please quickly give us the report on this. Get information from the cameras – whichever camera is working – and give us the report. Mr Speaker, Karamoja has lost a voice. When Hon. Aleper joined campus in 1996, or even before that, in 1994 – Actually after finishing Moroto High School, he did not have anybody to pay his school fees. We would like to thank the people of Cornerstone Academy in Luwero; they are the ones who picked him. When he went there, he performed very well and joined Makerere University. When he finished Makerere University, he joined a cadet course. He was actually in Jinja as a cadet officer. At some point, he decided to come out and pursue active politics. He was not chased. Hon. Aleper was a counsellor who preferred dialogue. He would logically walk you through a matter, maybe because of his background of doing political science and philosophy. He always wanted to develop consensus. He did a lot in the region. When we were in this Parliament, he was the publicity secretary for the Karamoja Parliamentary Group while I was the secretary and Hon. Sam Lokeris was the chairperson. We did a lot here. [Mr] Achia

13515 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 2 JULY 2024 and these are funds required to commence establishment of mineral regulations, revenue collection infrastructure and implementation of the minerals law. These include weighbridges and Government regulated markets for precious stones et cetera. Under the same vote - Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, there was a reduction of Shs 15 billion from rural electrification and connectivity projects. These funds are required to kick-start works on the seven major construction roads, which include the following: 1. Under Batch 1; the Eastern Service Territory, including West Budama South, Tororo South and Tororo Municipality in Tororo District, Pallisa County, and Gogonyo in Pallisa District; 2. Under Batch 2; still in the Eastern Service Territory, it covers areas of Busiki in Namutumba, Bukooli South in Bugiri, Kamuli District, Kachumbala in Bukedea District, Mbale Northern Division, Bungokho in Mbale and Serere District; 3. Lot 3; Northwest Service Territory for Buyanja East in Kibaale District, Bugangaizi South in Kakumiro District, Buhaguzi in Hoima, Hoima City, Kikuube and Buyaga East in Kagadi District; 4. Under lot 4 of West Nile, Central North and North Service Territory for Ora area in Zombo, Gulu; Aringa South in Yumbe, Dokolo District and Lira East in Lira District. 5. West, South and South Western Service Territory for Sheema, Ruhinda in Mitooma, Isingiro, Rubanda, Ibanda, and Kisoro Districts; 6. Western, Central, and Rwenzori Service Territory for Busongora North in Kasese, Fort Portal Central in Kabarole, Kyankwanzi and Bunyangabo Districts; 7. Central Service Territory for Bbale in Kayunga, Mukono South in Mukono, Butambala, Bukoto East in Masaka and Kiboga Districts. Madam Chairperson, in addition, these funds are required to commence works of enhancing the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) framework priority interventions for small factories and cottage industries across the country. (Interjections ) The SMEs framework intervention is aimed at reducing the turnaround time for electricity connection to SMEs.

13464 PRESENTATION OF THE BUDGET SPEECH FY 2024/2025 iii) Maintenance of 13 aerodromes, including Arua, Gulu, Pakuba, Masindi, Lira, Kidepo, Moroto, Soroti, Tororo, Jinja, Mbarara, Kasese and Kisoro. Madam Speaker, with regard to water transport, the following were accomplished during the financial we are talking about - we are winding up: i) Completed the construction of three strategic ferries, namely; Amuru-Rhino Camp Ferry and two ferries for Bukungu- Kagwara-Kaberamaido (BKK) route on Lake Kyoga; ii) Completed the construction of the Maritime Training Institute in Namasagali, and commenced construction works for the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) at Mwanza; iii) Completed 46 per cent construction works for search and rescue centres at Kaazi and 25 per cent at Kaiso, Panyimur and Zengebe landing sites; and iv) Continued with the development of new Kampala Port at Bukasa. With regard to railway transport, the following were accomplished during this financial: i) Acquired a 161-kilometre corridor for the standard gauge railway between Tororo and Mayuge; ii) Twenty eight per cent completion of rehabilitation of Tororo-Gulu Metre Gauge Railway; and iii) Completed emergency refurbishment and rehabilitation of the Malaba-Kampala- Namanve Metre Gauge railway. Madam Speaker, during Financial Year 2024/2025, more focus will be put on maintenance of the roads we have built, building a few new strategic roads, accelerated rehabilitation of the metre gauge railway and commencement of construction of the Standard Gauge Railway. I have provided a total of Shs 4.989 trillion for that purpose. In particular, the following transport infrastructure will be undertaken: Roads and Bridges i. Tarmacking of an additional 306 kilometres of roads under the ongoing projects; ii. Completion of upgrading of 210 kilometres of the following roads: Muyembe- Nakapiripirit (92 kilometres) and 25 kilometres of service roads; Kira-Matugga Road and improvement of five junctions (21 kilometres); Tororo-Busia Road (26 kilometres) and Mayuge and Busia town roads (18 kilometres); Kawuku-Bwerenga Road (6.6 kilometres) and Namugonde- Bugiri Road (1.6 kilometres); selected town roads (7.5 kilometres), in Pallisa and Kumi (12.2 kilometres); and remedial works on Ntungamo-Kabale-Katuna Road (65 kilometres); iii. Commencing the upgrading/construction of 643 kilometres of the following road projects: Kisoro-Lake Bunyonyi Road Kisoro-Mgahinga National Park Headquarters Road; Koboko-Yumbe- Moyo Road; Yumbe-Ure Road; Kitgum- Kidepo; Namagumba-Budadiri-Nalugugu Road; Katine-Ochero Road and 2.9 km of town roads in Kaberamaido and Kalaki towns; Kyenjojo-(Kihura)-Bwizi- Rwamwanja-Kahunge and Mpara- Bwizi; Iganga-Buloopa-Kamuli; and Jinja-Mbulamuti-Kamuli-Bukungu; and Jinja City roads; Kisubi-Nakawuka- Natete; Nakawuka-Kasanje-Mpigi; and Nakawuka-MawuguluNanziga-Maya- Kasanje-Buwaya roads; iv. Upgrading to bitumen standard (tarmac) 16.9 km of roads in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, and Gomba District; v. Completing the construction of 20.2 km of Kayunga-Nabuganyi Road; vi. Completing the construction of Kakiri- Masulita-Mawale Road (23 km);

-"* .l i'l tv" f. (-> 4l- * OAL t T ,,/i t:' ^"Hi-* .) \.. Amount (OOO'I Descrlption Vote 9,877,949 531 Ankara Uganda Embassy in Tur 3,99t,682 532 Uganda Embassy in Somalia, Mo shu 8,682,632 533 Uganda Embassy in Malaysia, Kuala Lum ur 9,306,488 Uganda Consulate in Kenya, Mombasa 534 6,787,857 535 Uganda Embassy in Algeria, Algiers 6,t48,639 Uganda Embassy in Qatar, Doha 536 3,451,001 Uganda Mission in Havana, Cuba 537 3,475,000 538 Uganda Mission in Luanda, An 1a 264,336,145 Sub total -Mlssions Abroad ( Local Governments 40,679,88O 601 Arua city 2t,529,439 '\ 602 Fort-Portal city 28,O30,761 Gulu city \os 15,154,886 604 Hoima city 43,319,158 605 Jinja city 30,495,727 Lira city 606 30,239,526 607 Masaka city 39,177,649 608 Mbale city 36,031,699 Mbarara city 609 20,o6L,624 610 Soroti citv 8,879,420 70t Apac Municipal Council 6,476,93O 702 Bugiri Municipal Council 13,604,742 Bushenyi- Ishaka Municipal Council 703 8,671,010 704 Busia Municipal Council 15,990,314 705 al Council Entebbe Municip 16,424,644 Ibanda Municipal Council 706 7,638,634 707 Iganga Municipal Council 17,668,8r7 708 Kabale Municipal Council ,i, -\_:-- il^- 11 - --j!..ii,- "i+: 1j- \-i ' i''. --Ff" ( .\- . \

I put the question that a total sum of Shs 219,843,204 be provided for Apac Municipal Council, under Vote 701, as a supplementary recurrent expenditure for the Financial Year 2023/2024. (Question put and agreed to.) Vote 702: Bugiri Municipal Council

I put the question on the total sum of Shs 242,340,974 be provided to Bugiri Municipal Council, under Vote 702, as a supplementary recurrent expenditure for the Financial Year 2023/2024. (Question put and agreed to.) Vote 703: Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipal Council

Honourable members, can we have some silence? Honourable minister, before you bring your report, in the public gallery this afternoon, we have a delegation of all the LC III chairpersons of the Busoga subregion, from the districts of Bugweri, Bugiri, Luuka, Buyende, Iganga, Namayingo, Mayuge, Namutumba, Jinja, Kamuli and Kaliro. They are represented by the Members of Parliament from Busoga, headed by the Chairperson of Busoga Parliamentary Group. All the Basoga, stand up and we see you. (Applause) Join me in welcoming them to the Parliament of Uganda. (Applause) This is your Parliament. They are here for a two-day training on capacity building for local leaders and the role of Members of Parliament. By the time the councillors go back, they will have known the role of a Member of Parliament – not buying an ambulance, doing burials – (Laughter )- you are most welcome. Thank you so much for coming. (Mr Muzaale rose_) There is a procedural matter from the Member for Buzaaya.

Thank you, I welcome them, especially those from Bugiri. I am here. Madam Speaker, the issue being raised by Hon. Ssekikubo and the rule you have cited, we accept, but there are critical offices that affect the outcome of these deliberations. For example, the Office of the Attorney-General, the two of them are not here. When these Bills are challenged in court, it is that office that is responsible for representing us and sometimes they even have a habit of disowning us. Whereas you have a habit of asking them to comment on every clause, something very good. It is true that a minister can ask another to represent them. Where you have critical positions like the Attorney-General, I humbly beseech you to ensure that at least one person from that office is represented here.

Number two, the Hon. Helen Auma Wandera from Uganda won silver in that category. The bronze went to another country. I want to emphasise that we were the best in that category, number one and number two. 100 metres (men) Number one, Hon. Bernard Odoi Onen from Uganda won gold. Number two and three came from another country, so I will not mention them. 200 metres (women) I only mention where we won. Number one, Hon. Joan Acom Alobo from Uganda, won gold. We want to thank you. Number two, Hon. Agnes Taka, my Woman MP, Bugiri, won silver. Bugiri continues to shine. (Applause) 200 metres (men) Hon. Patrick Ochan from Uganda, won bronze. Sorry, he won gold.

Madam Speaker, I was so constrained to raise a point of order against Hon. Asuman Basalirwa because he is my MP from Bugiri. However, the point of order I am raising is that the Hon. Asuman Basalirwa is a seconder of this motion. Is it for him to seek clarification on the same motion that he is supposed to second?

Hon. Silwany, did you set one in Bugiri?

No, I did not set one in Bugiri. I was just using my name as an example. I do not want to mention people who are not here. However, some politicians set exams – (Interjection)- I will come here and lay it on the Table. I saw a party president setting exams.

12179 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA FRIDAY, 15 MARCH 2024 mistakes that teachers make while teaching. Most of these teachers are not examiners. That partly explains why most of those schools are not doing well, especially the upcountry schools. I think where there is smoke, there is fire. In the wisdom of this LCV chairman, for him to decide to subject the teachers to the examination, I think he wanted to assess and prove whether they are really at par with what UNEB requires. That means the burden goes back to the Ministry of Education. The Ministry of Education must have retooling programmes through the CCT centres. They should keep on retooling and updating some of these teachers on the current desired standards by UNEB, which these teachers do not know about. That is to enable most of them to come up and be subject teachers for those examinations. The second issue is that I have seen adverts in different media by the Higher Education Student Financing Board; luckily, the minister is here. In this advert, they are calling upon students who sat senior six and are joining the first year at university to apply for the loan scheme. Aware of the fact that UNEB delayed releasing the exam results, this financing board put the deadline as 15 March, which is today. Most of these students have just received results and others are yet to receive them. These universities have just opened up for admissions. I am pleading with the minister to prevail over the Higher Student’s Loan Scheme so that the deadline can be extended for most of the students to benefit. From what I am aware of, not even a single university has issued admission letters. There was a complaint in this House last year and the previous years about the equity of the loan scheme. Whenever there was a complaint, they would publish it in the papers. What the board or the ministry decided to do was to change. If they were starting with the surnames of the beneficiaries, they changed to the religious name. You could follow the papers and see that most of these beneficiaries come from one part of the country. Almost 80 per cent of those beneficiaries. I also call upon the honourable minister that the board ensures equity and fairness. If possible, we could undergo the quota system in the same way the Public University Joint Admissions Board does. We would know very well that Sironko or Bugiri has this number of beneficiaries of the loan scheme. I submit. Thank you.

You had to thank Hon. Basalirwa. What would you do; you are both from Bugiri. Yes, Hon. Ssemujju?

Thank you, Mr Speaker. The question that I would like to raise to the Rt Hon. Prime Minister is with respect to the construction of Pongolojo Bridge that was a presidential pledge, which has delayed for well over 15 years. When our people try to cross the downstream of River Malaba, they are often mauled by crocodiles. Every year, we lose about two people. The President, while campaigning in Busia during the bi-election there, assured us that this bridge would be constructed and he directed the Ministry of Works and Transport to find about Shs 3 billion but it has taken over 15 years. Right now, my people are scared because the crocodiles have become very many and it is hampering trade between Tororo and Bugiri. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, when is this presidential pledge going to be actualised? Secondly, Mr Speaker -

Mr Speaker, I have been to Iganga like five times, the issue is that we have been giving them little money. That is why they have been clamouring to be upgraded to a referral so that their budget can go up. The same applies to Mityana, Gombe and many other hospitals. The machines that we give them consume a lot of power and so, the money we give them is not enough. Secondly, I think we need to come up with a way of paying electricity directly. From the Central Bank to the – because once it goes to these corners, it passes through many hands. I was of the view that if you give me time, I will handle this matter together with the ministries concerned so that Gombe Hospital, Mityana Hospital, Iganga and even Bugiri. I have been to Bugiri and they are also complaining about the same. I have not been to Pallisa though I was there as a Resident District Commissioner (RDC). However, Masafu Hospital in Busia is suffering in the same way. Whenever they put on the machines, the electricity takes all the money. I think that we need to redesign and make sure that we give these people enough money that can run those machines. (Applause)

11581 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 1 FEBRUARY 2024 Introduction Mr Speaker, FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects all cloven-hoofed (two hoofed) animals. These include cattle, goats, sheep, pigs and wild animals such as buffaloes, deers and antelopes. The disease spreads very fast, through close contact between infected and non-infected animals. The disease is transmitted through aerosols (fluid droplets) breathed out by infected animals and contact with affected surfaces. The aerosols can be transported by wind to far areas. The affected animals get wounds in the mouth, feet and teats in female animals. FMD is the most dreaded disease in international trade of animals and animal products. Countries that have eradicated the disease do not allow trade with affected countries, or those that control the disease by vaccination. The disease causes significant economic losses to the farmers and to the country due to disruption in animal production, productivity and in trade of animal and animal products. Scientists and economists have estimated the economic cost of FMD to a farmer per unit livestock to be $20 per infection. The cost can be higher with repeated infections. Our target, therefore, as Government, is to not only control the disease but eradicate it. Mr Speaker, the ideal situation that enables any livestock producing country to fully control and eradicate FMD requires the following interventions: i) Undertaking a bi-annual compulsory vaccination exercise of the entire susceptible animal herd in the country (all two hoofed animals; cattle, sheep, goats and pigs). For purposes of universal coverage, compliance and bio-security considerations (since vaccines are live organisms), governments normally offer the vaccines as a public good. This, however, varies from country to country, depending on the number of animals and the budget implications for buying the vaccines recurrently. ii) Another control and eradication approach is the “test and slaughter” followed by safe disposal of the carcasses (burning and/or burying). When the veterinary authorities confirm the outbreak, they determine the affected animals and those at risk for destruction. This, however, is followed with compensation by the government, which is a very expensive practice. This is the practice in developed livestock-producing countries like the United Kingdom, among others. You kill or destroy, but compensate the farmer. iii) In addition to the above, movement control restrictions (quarantine) are always imposed either in part or as a whole in the affected geographical location depending on the epidemiological assessment by the competent authorities. The competent authorities, Mr Speaker, are veterinary authorities. These animal movement restrictions, however, are temporary measures to disrupt transmission but their duration depends on the discipline and compliance of the different stakeholders (farmers, traders, processors and enforcement agencies) and also on the country’s ability to implement interventions (i) and (ii) above. Current situation in the country Mr Speaker, there are 36 districts currently affected and under quarantine. These are; Budaka, Bukedea, Bukomansimbi, Bunyangabu, Butaleja, Fort Portal City, Gomba, Ibanda, Isingiro, Kabarole, Kassanda, Kayunga, Kazo, Kiboga, Kibuku, Kiruhura, Kumi, Kyankwanzi, Kyegegwa, Kyotera, Luuka, Lwengo, Lyantonde, Mbarara, Mbarara City, Mityana, Mpigi, Mubende, Nakaseke, Nakasongola, Namisindwa, Ngora, Ntungamo, Rakai, Rwampara and Ssembabule. All districts neighbouring the aforementioned districts are at high risk, under strict surveillance and the authorities are advised to remain vigilant. These include; Apac, Amolatar, Bugiri, Bushenyi, Butaleja, Hoima, Iganga, Jinja, Kabale, Kaberamaido, Kaliro, Kamuli,

Madam Speaker, I beg to designate the following honourable members to the standing Committee on National Economy: 1. Hon. Ikojo John Bosco – Chairperson; and 2. Hon. Robert Migadde - Deputy Chairperson. The following are designated as members: 1. Hon. Joram Ruranga - Elderly; 2. Hon. Simon Peter Opolot - Kanyum; 3. Hon. Tonny Ayoo - Kwania; 4. Hon. Joy Katali - Jinja; 5. Hon. Jane Avur Pacuto - Pakwach; 6. Hon. James Baba Boliba - Koboko; 7. Hon. Geoffrey Eric Mutiwa – Bunyole West; 8. Hon. Betty Chelain - Amudat; 9. Hon. Nathan Byanyima – Bukanga North; 10. Hon. Micah Lolem - Upe; 11. Hon. Francis Kazini Twinomujuni - Buhaguzi; 12. Hon. Sylvia Bahireira Tumwekwase - Kamwenge; 13. Hon. Peggy Joy Waako – Elderly; 14. Hon. Aisa Agaba – Bugangaizi East; 15. Hon. Midius Natukunda - Rukungiri; 16. Hon. Peterkhen Lochap - Bokora; 17. Hon. Godfrey Were Odero – Samia Bugwe South; 18. Hon. Jennifer Ayoo - Kalki; 19. Hon. Jane Awich - Kaberamaido; 20. Hon. Stella Atyang - Moroto; 21. Hon. Hillary Lokwang – Napore West; 22. Hon. Joseph Komol – Dodoth North; 23. Hon. Alex Byarugaba - Isingiro; 24. Hon. Naome Kibaaju – Sheema North; 25. Hon. Moses Ogwal Goli – Dokolo North; 26. Hon. Juliet Achayo Lodou – Ngora County; 27. Hon. Simon Peter Wokorach – Aswa County; 28. Hon. Bashir Lubega – Mubende Muncipality; 29. Hon. Agnes Taaka - Bugiri; 30. Hon. Sylvia Vicky Awas - Nabilatuk; 31. Hon. Henry Maurice Kibalya – Bugabula South; 32. Hon. Oliver Katwesigye - Buhweju; 33. Hon. Stephen Kangwagye - Bukanga; and 34. Hon. Abdi Fadhil Kisos Chemaswet - Soi. I beg to designate.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Let me go on record and state as follows that the Anti-Homosexuality law is the most popular law in the history of this Parliament. Bipartisan - all shades of opinion were behind this piece of legislation. Secondly, I attended a function in Bugiri, where Hon. Kasule Lumumba was the chief guest, the NRM Chairperson, Mr Saidi Kagere together with a couple of other people, enjoined us as Parliament to come out with a law on homosexuality. It was on the basis of those calls that I came to your office and requested that I move this Bill. It is a matter that arose from the grassroots. In fact, the entire country is very proud and excited about this piece of legislation. It is actually not true that anybody could have used any of us to bring that piece of legislation - in any case, it is not new in this Parliament. Madam Speaker, I have been around for a long time. I have been in prison; this Government imprisoned me in Luzira. This NRM Government imprisoned me for fighting for what I believe in; I have been a political prisoner before. However, I am also aware that forces promoting homosexuality are very strong. They have money and influence. I know that some of our honourable colleagues are under pressure. There is a lot of pressure and intimidation, and I have engaged these forces because they have come to my office from Britain, America and the rest. They are looking for allies to promote that immorality in this country. I would like to be on record that as a country, we must stand our ground. (Applause) God who created us will make us survive. This idea of saying; “We are cutting aid, do not come to America, do not go to Britain,” yes, it is their right but nobody should determine how we think. Madam Speaker, polygamy in Europe is criminal; who has complained? If I was in Europe, I would be in jail because I am polygamous. What is wrong with homosexuality being criminal in Uganda? This display of double standards-it is actually a display of no standards. It cannot be accepted. Let us stand our ground; this Parliament took a decision we are proud of. We must condemn all efforts intended at undermining the sovereignty of this Parliament and this country.

Why are you raising a point of order? Does he come from Bugiri? (Laughter) He comes from Masaka and he is proud to be from Masaka. Sit down.

I do not see properly so I am very grateful. Madam Speaker, I represent Iganga Municipality and Iganga is located on a highway along the Mbale – Jinja - Kampala Road. It serves the districts of Luuka, Kaliro, Mayuge, Namutumba and Bugweri. To our surprise, in all the arrangements – first of all, we thank the Government for renovating Iganga General Hospital to a status of qualifying it to be a referral hospital. As per the plans of the Ministry of Health, it was supposed to be upgraded to a referral hospital, but there are powerful people – I think in Iganga, we are not as powerful and supportive of the NRM government. They said that the referral hospital will be taken to Bugiri [Mr Kafuuzi] COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

10879 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 14 NOVEMBER 2023 because it has more supporters of the NRM government than us, yet their demand was simple; to renovate Bugiri General Hospital. Our demand, on the other hand, is to upgrade our hospital to a referral hospital. Our prayer is one; let them upgrade Iganga General Hospital and also take the extra mile – (Hon. Taaka rose_)

Honourable members, the two hospitals can co-exist. Bugiri has its own hospital and Iganga also has its own. What goes to Bugiri is for Bugiri and what goes to Iganga is for Iganga. Iganga is basically for upgrade and Bugiri is a district hospital. We need all the hospitals operational. We do not fight for one or the other. What we need is for the ministry to ensure that both are operational. You, Basoga do not have to quarrel here. (Laughter)

Madam Speaker, you have stated it rightly. Let Bugiri General Hospital be renovated and Iganga General Hospital be upgraded.

Thank you and he is a commissioner. (Laughter) Honourable colleagues, we need to be cautious when debating issues here. This is because the Hansard is a credible source of information. People believe that what we say here is credible and we are legislators so it must be backed up by evidence. Honourable colleagues, statistics of Bugiri do not apply here. I request that while stating facts, especially those to do with figures, state the source. This will make it easy. Let us be cautious.

10801 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 25 OCTOBER 2023 the prescribed time to ensure the timely preparation of the treasury memoranda and timely implementation of recommendations of Parliament; NOW, THEREFORE, Parliament, in accordance with Article 163(5) of the Constitution and Section 19(4) of the National Audit Act, 2008, resolves to adopt the recommendations of the Auditor-General in respect to the following local government entities: Entities under the Public Accounts Committee (Local Government) 1. Mbale District Local Government; 2. Mbale City; 3. Namisindwa District Local Government; 4. Manafwa District Local Government; 5. Bulambuli District Local Government; 6. Kibuku District Local Government; 7. Tororo District Local Government; 8. Sironko District Local Government; 9. Budaka District Local Government; 10. Busia District Local Government; 11. Busia Municipal Council; 12. Butaleja District Local Government; 13. Kapchorwa District Local Government; 14. Kapchorwa Municipal Council; 15. Kween District Local Government; 16. Tororo Municipal Council; 17. Bukwo District Local Government; 18. Pallisa District Local Government; 19. Bududa District Local Government; 20. Soroti District Local Government; 21. Soroti City; 22. Amolatar District Local Government; 23. Kaberamaido District Local Government; 24. Kalaki District Local Government; 25. Serere District Local Government; 26. Amuria District Local Government; 27. Dokolo District Local Government; 28. Bukedea District Local Government; 29. Katakwi District Local Government; 30. Kapelebyong District Local Government; 31. Otuke District Local Government; 32. Kumi Municipal Council; 33. Kumi District Local Government; 34. Ngora District Local Government; 35. Nabilatuk District Local Government; 36. Nakapiripirit District Local Government; 37. Karenga District Local Government; 38. Kotido District Local Government; 39. Kotido Municipal Council; 40. Amudat District Local Government; 41. Kaabong District Local Government; 42. Moroto District Local Government; 43. Moroto Municipal Council; 44. Abim District Local Government; 45. Napak District Local Government; 46. Kamuli District Local Government; 47. Kamuli Municipal Council; 48. Iganga District Local Government; 49. Iganga Municipal Council; 50. Jinja District Local Government; 51. Jinja City; 52. Northern Division, Jinja City; 53. Southern Division, Jinja City; 54. Kaliro District Local Government; 55. Buyende District Local Government; 56. Mayuge District Local Government; 57. Bugiri District Local Government; 58. Bugiri Municipal Council; 59. Namayingo District Local Government; 60. Namutumba District Local Government; 61. Njeru Municipal Council; 62. Lugazi Municipal Council; 63. Luuka District Local Government; 64. Bugweri District Local Government; 65. Buikwe District Local Government; 66. Mukono District Local Government; 67. Mukono Municipal Council; 68. Wakiso District Local Government; 69. Nansana Municipal Council; 70. Makindye-Ssabagabo Municipal Council; 71. Kira Municipal Council; 72. Mpigi District Local Government; 73. Nakaseke District Local Government; 74. Luwero District Local Government; 75. Mityana District Local Government; 76. Mityana Municipal Council; 77. Buvuma District Local Government; 78. Entebbe Municipal Council; 79. Butambala District Local Government; 80. Kayunga District Local Government; 81. Nakasongola District Local Government; 82. Masaka District Local Government; 83. Masaka City; 84. Kimaanya-Kabonera City Division; 85. Nyendo-Mukungwe City Division; 86. Kalungu District Local Government; 87. Gomba District Local Government;

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I speak on behalf of the disability fraternity who live in Jinja, to pay tribute to Hon. Kyemba. We condole with the family, the people of Busoga, and with the whole country. Mr Speaker, under the leadership of Rt Hon. Kadaga- I was greatly involved in the Busoga issues. I had an opportunity to meet the gentleman we are talking about today but before I go there, Hon. Kyemba, was the Minister of Health and my mother was a nurse. Much as I recognise the government of UPC, which built the hospitals, it was under his leadership that these hospitals were commissioned and it was the first time I saw a minister. I was a young girl and those days when the President was coming, children were put on the road to line up to welcome him, to welcome a minister and ministers were ministers. (Laughter) I want to tell you, we were in Bugiri, and my mother was transferred to that hospital and those hospitals are many, Itojo, and others, those were hospitals built all over Uganda, under the supervision of Hon. Kyemba, under the wrong time of Iddi Amin but I am telling you, the hospitals were sparkling, they were smart. He was not moving around as a minister but his administration was felt even when he was not there. You find the nurses saying, if Kyemba comes - nobody would steal medicine, nobody would do anything bad. The hospitals, right from the kitchen, were smart and food would be given there. That was the administrator, in the man called Henry Kyemba. How many of us emulate that? These days, as ministers, with due respect to the ministers, we want to be everywhere. How do you put in the system, which people will feel that you are there when you are not even there? I want to give him credit. It is a lesson I learned.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am honoured to pay tribute to this great father. I bring condolences from Bugiri to Mama , my sisters and brothers, and all the people of Busoga and Uganda at large. I learnt of the death of Hon. Kyemba a few days ago. I only knew that he was an uncle to Hon. Nabeta. However, having read about him, when I saw that he had been honoured with a state burial, I decided to take an interest in reading about he.

Madam Speaker, what is important to emphasise to the minister is that before passing the resolution of this House, the House was aware of the guidelines previously issued by the works ministry. In fact, we had considered those guidelines issued by the works ministry but we noticed that they had become an obstacle to themselves. It was against that background that Parliament resolved to take the guidelines issued and approved by Parliament. Madam Speaker, the minister is saying that the local governments have two sets of guidelines. I think they just want to deliberately create confusion. The local governments are claiming that because they have two sets of guidelines they can choose which ones to follow. So, unless the minister gives clarification to the local governments – information from Bugiri – (Interjections) - yes, from the Member of Parliament for Bukooli County Central. (Applause)

I will take the information, since he is from Bugiri. (Laughter) That is on a lighter note.

Honourable members, when you hear the whole report, it reduces on the kind of questions that you will be asking. With due respect, this is a very sticky issue. We would rather handle only this one and that is what we - I will tell you that this has kept us in Parliament from 8.00 a.m. The issue of accidents is about life. Hon. Solomon may be hurrying to go to Bugiri but you can go tomorrow.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. It is a blessing. But you make us proud in this region. In Africa, it is Uganda and Ghana that have passed that Bill- you have put our country on the map. However, I stood to respond to your communication to agree with my brother, from Bugiri, Hon. Silwany that Uganda operates by crisis. Although the Minister of Local Government is going to talk about it, yesterday, we had people who failed to buy land in Busia- Sofia because the LCI feared signing because his term had expired. This is an important matter and I think the minister should not come with lamentations but authority so that the local councils can continue working. As Government, we should stop working in crises. As I talk, there is almost a standstill in the whole country - (Interruption)

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I want to join colleagues to thank His Excellency the President for the State-of-the- Nation Address. The President clearly indicated that the fisheries sub-sector brought to this country Shs 166.9 billion. This is a goldmine. If properly put to use, fish can turn around the economy of this country. What the fisheries sub-sector requires is to energize our people and provide them with affordable loans so that they get the necessary gear. Once this is provided, the fishery sub-sector will contribute a lot to the economy of this country. The President also talked about water for production, that is, irrigation. Some of us who come from Namayingo, Busia, Mayuge, and Bugiri have plenty of water. It is not good that we have one season in our country, yet we have plenty of water that could be put to use for irrigation. This is an area clearly the agricultural ministry and the water ministry have to look at and ensure that Uganda is a food basket for this region. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am raising a matter regarding 43 secondary school headteachers who were interviewed in 2021. However, up to now, these teachers of seed secondary schools have not been given their appointment letters by the Ministry of Education and Sports, whereas their colleagues - over 100 - were deployed. There are cases in places such as Kitgum, Omoro and Bugiri. These were caretaker headteachers of these schools for about five to six years. Unfortunately, one of them, after having heard that he was not taken by the ministry, developed high blood pressure and died – His name was Ronald Nabamba from Namungo Seed Secondary School in Mityana. My prayer is that the Ministry of Education and Sports gives these teachers their appointment letters and deploys them because this is a budget-free issue, which does not require any additional money; money is always there for the headteachers. The issue of saying that they were teachers and they absconded is a matter that the ministry should have handled before they were interviewed. They should be taken on because there are precedents that some people, who were on the payroll, were interviewed and deployed. The Minister of Education and Sports should intervene. Otherwise, it is likely to be a court matter. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am raising a matter regarding 43 secondary school headteachers who were interviewed in 2021. However, up to now, these teachers of seed secondary schools have not been given their appointment letters by the Ministry of Education and Sports, whereas their colleagues - over 100 - were deployed. There are cases in places such as Kitgum, Omoro and Bugiri. These were caretaker headteachers of these schools for about five to six years. Unfortunately, one of them, after having heard that he was not taken by the ministry, developed high blood pressure and died – His name was Ronald Nabamba from Namungo Seed Secondary School in Mityana. My prayer is that the Ministry of Education and Sports gives these teachers their appointment letters and deploys them because this is a budget-free issue, which does not require any additional money; money is always there for the headteachers. The issue of saying that they were teachers and they absconded is a matter that the ministry should have handled before they were interviewed. They should be taken on because there are precedents that some people, who were on the payroll, were interviewed and deployed. The Minister of Education and Sports should intervene. Otherwise, it is likely to be a court matter. Thank you.

Hon. Asuman, if you are used to quarrelling with voters, this is not Bugiri. (Laughter)

9230 MINISTERIAL STATEMENT district as a hard-to-reach area so as to benefit from funds earmarked for such areas. His questions are: a) What criteria is used to determine hard-to- reach areas? b) What is the possibility of including other areas in the hard-to-reach areas category? c) Which areas are categorised as hard-to- reach? My response is that the Ministry of Public Service observed that there were areas in some local governments that had consistently failed to attract and retain skilled and capable human resource, leading to inadequacies and gaps in the delivery of services. This was observed through inspection reports, support supervision exercises and payroll status reports. These areas were, therefore, defined as hard to reach. Hard-to-reach areas are defined as remote or insecure areas that are unable to attract and retain sufficient numbers of motivated staff because of difficult living conditions. They are, therefore, “hard to work in and hard to stay in.” These areas are characterised by remoteness, insecurity and poor infrastructure, among others. In the Financial Year 2010-2011, Government approved payment of hardship allowances of 30 per cent of the basic monthly salary for public officers working in the local governments defined as hard to reach. The following 24 areas are categorised as hard-to-reach: Kotido, Nakapiripirit, Abim, Moroto, Kaabong, Pader, Kitgum, Nwoya, Amuru, Kalangala, Gulu, Bundibugyo, Adjumani, Kisoro, Kanungu, Bukwo, Ntoroko, Buvuma, Lamwo, Namayingo, Napak, Mayuge (specifically Malonge Island), Bugiri (specifically Sigulu Island), and Mukono (specifically Koome Islands). Over the years, the Ministry of Public Service has received requests from various local governments to be considered hard-to-reach areas. Consequently, the ministry carried out a study, in the year 2020, in order to review the hard-to-reach and hard-to-stay areas in the country based on the criteria of remoteness, insecurity and poor infrastructure. Out of the 63 districts that had requested to be considered, 54 were found to have hard- to-reach and hard-to-stay spots eligible for payment of the hard-to-reach allowance. In total, 340 hard-to-reach spots were identified as the qualifying localities within the 54 districts. Madam Speaker, allow me to lay, on the Table, a full list of the hard-to-reach and hard-to-stay areas in the country. In the interest of time, Members can access it. Madam Speaker, based on the criteria used, I would like to inform the honourable member that Rubanda was not categorised as a hard-to- reach and hard-to-stay district. It is also important to note that the Ministry of Public Service has not yet implemented the revised Hard-to-Reach Framework. The current priority of the Government is the salary enhancement of all public officers in a phased approach. Madam Speaker, I got another question from Hon. Francis Adome, MP for Moroto Municipality. His question was to know the Government’s plan to rehabilitate government- aided schools in Karamoja. My response is that the Government of Uganda, in collaboration with education development partners, has been providing infrastructure support to both primary and post-primary institutions in the Karamoja subregion. All the post-primary institutions (11 secondary schools and two PTCs) benefitted from infrastructure support under the Irish Aid. All secondary schools in the Karamoja subregion implementing Universal Secondary Education were provided with additional infrastructure under the World Bank support and were provided with additional classrooms to attain the recommended classroom-student ratio of 1:60. [Ms Nabbanja] PRIME MINISTER’S TIME

9121 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 15 JUNE 2023 Madam Speaker, after the on-going audit of the Government payroll, the ban on recruitment will also be lifted to enable cover the staffing gaps in education. Government will continue to support sports activities and entertainment talents and enforce copyrights for performing artists. Safe Water The national coverage for safe and clean water for human consumption now stands at 70 per cent; with 67 per cent in rural areas and 72 per cent in urban areas, but we still need more. In rural areas, gravity flow schemes have been completed at Lirima in Manafwa, Lukalu- Kabasanda in Butambala and Nyabuhikye- Kikyenke in Ibanda. Piped water systems have also been constructed at Nyakabingo in Rukungiri, Kabuyanda in Isingiro, and Orom Water Supply System in Kitgum-Lamwo. In addition, 40 solar-powered mini-piped schemes serving 173,000 persons have been constructed across 15 least-served districts including Lyantonde, Sembabule, Yumbe, Rakai, Buyende, Kamuli and Kakumiro. In urban areas, nine piped water supply and sanitation systems have been completed in Dokolo, Padibe - Lamwo, Odramacaku - Arua, Kagadi, Morulem and Alerek (Abim), and Kambuga II in Kanungu. Access to safe and clean water will be enhanced to achieve 85 per cent coverage in rural areas and 100 per cent coverage in urban areas by the year 2025. Next year, the main activities towards this goal include the construction of 1,540 boreholes in 1,050 villages and town wards; building 49 large, 67 medium and 80 small piped water schemes in both urban and rural areas, and the rehabilitation and maintenance of 50 water systems in growth centres. Interventions that build human capital have been allocated Shs 9.57 trillion, representing 18.2 per cent of the total budget. In addition, the Government, together with the World Bank, are implementing the $500 million in Uganda through the Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfer programme to construct health centres III, IV, seed secondary schools and micro-scale irrigation facilities in local governments that do not have these facilities. Enhancing Infrastructure Stock and Quality The stock and quality of infrastructure is a key enabler for economic growth, development and social transformation. Transport Infrastructure Transport infrastructure development has been a major hallmark of Uganda’s recent economic development. The road sector in 1986 totalled 7,900 km. Today, it has expanded twenty-fold to almost 160,000 km. While only 6,700 km of today’s road network is paved, the road network now allows access to even the remotest parts of Uganda. Next financial year, we will substantially complete 16 national road projects including Atiak-Laropi, Moroto-Lokitanyala, Kawuku- Bwerenga, Namugonde-Bugiri, Nsambya- Mukwano, the Kampala Flyover and Rushere Town and Kyamate Access roads. In addition, priority will be accorded to maintenance of existing road networks, both national and District Urban and Community Access Roads (DUCAR). The Bukungu-Kagwara- Kaberamaido (BKK) Ferry and related landing sites, and Lake Bunyonyi ferries and their landing sites will also be completed. Madam Speaker, emergency repairs of the Kampala-Malaba Metre Gauge Railway were completed this year. (Applause) My team will have to come and explain this. The full rehabilitation of the Kampala–Malaba and Tororo–Gulu Metre Gauge Railway will

Honourable members, listen. 1) Vote 601: Arua City - Shs 36,948,486,000 2) Vote 602: Fort Portal City - Shs 21,749,696,000 3) Vote 603: Gulu City – Shs 26,555,638,000 4) Vote 604: Hoima City - Shs 14,982,706,000 5) Vote 605: Jinja City - Shs 38,446,052,000 6) Vote 606: Lira City - Shs 25,298,264,000 7) Vote 607: Masaka City - Shs 28,740,158,000 8) Vote 608: Mbale City - Shs 36,977,607,000 9) Vote 609: Mbarara City - Shs 33,853,374,000 10) Vote 610: Soroti City - Shs 18,894,719,000 11) Vote 701: Apac Municipal Council – Shs 8,494,655,000 12) Vote 702: Bugiri Municipal Council – Shs 5,045,364,000 13) Vote 703: Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipal Council - Shs 10,811,439,000 14) Vote 704: Busia Municipal Council - Shs 6,584,841,000 15) Vote 705: Entebbe Municipal Council – Shs 14,974,279,000 16) Vote 706: Ibanda Municipal Council – Shs 12,652,788,000 17) Vote 707: Iganga Municipal Council - Shs 6,354,604,000 18) Vote 708: Kabale Municipal Council – Shs 15,642,752,000 19) Vote 709: Kamuli Municipal Council – Shs 6,980,978,000 20) Vote 710: Kapchorwa Municipal Council – Shs 8,378,122,000 21) Vote 711: Kasese Municipal Council – Shs 14,834,120,000 22) Vote 712: Kira Municipal Council – Shs 20,650,861,000 23) Vote 713: Kisoro Municipal Council – Shs 3,648,099,000 24) Vote 714: Kitgum Municipal Council – Shs 6,670,002,000 25) Vote 715: Koboko Municipal Council – Shs 7,501,016,000 26) Vote 716: Kotido Municipal Council – Shs 7,454,417,000 27) Vote 717: Kumi Municipal Council – Shs 6,938,873,000 28) Vote 718: Lugazi Municipal Council – Shs 7,853,940,000 29) Vote 719: Makindye-Ssabagabo Municipal Council – Shs 13,864,172,000

Honourable members, just understand Hon. Macho. You know, being somebody from the border, he can smuggle in anything. (Laughter) I want to tell the people of Bugiri, whoever does not vote for these people who are here - I want to tell the people of Uganda that whoever does not vote for these people here, those people are homosexuals. (Laughter) Honourable members, tomorrow, we are going to display the list of Members who have voted, for all Ugandans to know who has stood by RECONSIDERATION OF THE ANTI-HOMOSEXUALITY BILL, 2023

Madam Chairperson, we are insisting on procedure because I was here in the last Parliament. One of our colleagues, somewhere from Bugiri, attempted to introduce - (Interjection) - Hon. Gaster attempted to introduce on the Floor of the House -

Thank you, Mr Speaker. Before I mention the procedural issue, allow me to thank you for accepting to be our chief walker last Sunday, and I thank the honourable members who turned up for the walk. It was successful. Allow me also thank the honourable members who took part in Bugiri yesterday. Thank you very much. The procedural matter I am raising, Mr Speaker, is, wouldn’t it be procedurally right that you give the timeframe to the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs on the time they have to report to the House since this is a very contentious issue across the country?

8277 THE E L E VENTH PARLIAMENT O F U GANDA TUESDAY , 25 APRIL 2023 Disclaimer: The electronic version of the Official Report of the proceedings of Parliament (Hansard) is for information purposes only. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Office of the Clerk to Parliament. shall have an extensive debate on this matter on Tuesday next week. Honourable colleagues, we did not want someone to say: “You have rushed me.” The Speaker will be chairing that session. Therefore, honourable colleagues, let us keep our fire for now until that time, when a comprehensive statement is here. The matter will be still hot because our colleague is still in hospital. I shared it with the Prime Minister; so there is still room for that. On Sunday, I led the Uganda Parliamentary Forum for Malaria (UPFM) together with their partners and very many of you colleagues including our senior colleague, Hon. Nathan Byanyima. Hon. Santa Alum - Hon. Aza refused to walk; he decided to run. (Laughter) We walked to spread awareness on the fight against malaria. It was unfortunate that no Minister of Health joined us, yet we were supporting their cause. Next time, we hope you will join us because all this was supplementing the efforts of the ministry. The senior officials of the ministry came. Next time, we will be happy if we can have the ministers because we are complementing their efforts. I am told they are having celebrations in Bugiri. I request the minister to make a statement to the House, which can come from the speech they would have delivered in Bugiri, so we can come up with more efforts on how best to support the Minister of Health in the fight against malaria. I actually told the congregation about more efforts including; bush clearing, planting mosquito repellent trees and creating awareness on the use of mosquito nets. Otherwise, some of them are using mosquito nets to make local brew, fishing and others are making sponges. Some are making gowns for weddings. (Laughter) I am telling you, all this is happening. Honourable colleagues, reducing this just to mosquito nets has not helped much. We must put up more fight because malaria kills around 52 Ugandans per day and 95 per cent of people dying of malaria in the whole world are in Africa. So, this is a very big concern. In fact, we lose around Shs 2.4 trillion due to the effect of malaria on our economy. So, the minister should bring a statement and we see how best we can bring our efforts together as House. On the same day, we donated blood, and I received a very interesting report. The team from the Nakasero Blood Bank told me the maximum they have gotten here when they organise blood donation drives is 20 units, but on that day, they got 108 units. (Applause) Honourable colleagues, you cannot tell the numbers of lives we saved. I donated, but I would like to encourage you to go to Nakasero Blood Bank and also donate. Otherwise, they told me they have a 24-hour open centre at Nakasero. Anytime you need to donate, just go there. I was also told it is very important to donate every three months because the body manufactures more blood. So, let us donate. We have doctors in this House; they will guide us in future. Honourable colleagues, when you donate blood, you save a life or lives. We received a petition from medical interns who are having issues and I am happy to report to you that yesterday, the Speaker met with them. I received their petition and it was forwarded to the Committee on Health. So, it is being processed and the moment it is processed – and we want it to be processed expeditiously – we shall bring a report to this House and debate that matter. Today, at 7.00 a.m. – I had been invited by the music promoters’ federation, under the creative arts federation. So, I addressed them and we had a very strong discussion on how best we can support this sector. They appreciated you, especially Hon. Rachel Magoola and Hon. Hillary Kiyaga. They also mentioned Hon. Kayemba-Ssolo as one of the people who support them.

Madam Speaker, first of all, thank you for your communication and, I join others in thanking you for yesterday. As you appreciate for the work we are doing, we have a glaring problem at hand. As at yesterday, Ugandans travelling to Kenya with goods are stuck. Actually, I do not know how Hon. Macho missed this but from Bugiri almost to Busia, Ugandans are not allowed to go into Kenya. It is a very serious crisis that Ugandans are not allowed to enter with their goods because of the strike that is taking place in Kenya - (Interruption)

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise on the matter concerning the Namutumba-Bulange-Bugiri-Muterere and Nakivumbi-Bugiri-Namayingo Road, which connects Busoga and Bukedi districts to Lake Victoria for economic reasons. Mr Speaker, Government promised to upgrade those roads from gravel to tarmac in the manifesto of the 2011 Presidential campaigns. This was the main reason our people voted the ruling government. Mr Speaker, today, the mentioned roads are rugged, tattered and they cannot enable an ambulance during the rainy season to fetch sick persons from their homes to the health facilities for treatment. My prayers: 1. They said that roads should be included in the docket of the Prime Minister. 2. Traffic lights, a fly-over and a roundabout should be set up at the juncture of Namayingo and Lumino to reduce the accidents that have already claimed 10 Ugandans, including one teacher since 2019. I rest my case.

Thank you. Hon. Pamela, then Bugiri Woman MP.

Thank you, Hon. Pamela. Bugiri, Edakasi.

6579 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 6 DECEMBER 2022 far been recovered and paid into the Inspectorate Asset Recovery Account. ii) The Office of the Auditor-General carried out 6,763 financial compliance audits, 23 value-for-money audits, 101 specialised engineering audits, 85 forensic special audits and nine IT audits over the last three financial years. Through these audits, loss of funds was averted and the amount of money recovered was Shs 175 billion. In addition, assets and cash amounting to Shs 4 billion were recovered during the audit. iii) The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions prosecuted 261 corruption cases, of which l68 were concluded and 110 of them resulted in convictions, which represents a success rate of 82 per cent. Resulting from the DPP’s prosecutions, Government recovered Shs 10 billion and $16,000 as well as malaria drugs valued at Shs 28 million. iv) The Criminal Investigations Directorate of the Uganda Police Force registered a total of 318 cases, of which 56 were submitted to the DPP and 23 were sanctioned for prosecution. Through prosecutions, a total of Shs 615 million has been recovered. v) State House Anti-Corruption Unit recovered a total amount of Shs 41.6 billion, of which Shs 8.6 billion was from inflated COVID-19 relief food prices; Shs 4.5 billion from Local Governments; Shs 3.6 billion from inflated compensation of Bukasa Inland Port-affected persons; Shs 2.9 billion worth of drugs, which had been stolen from Joint Medical Stores were recovered. vi) The State House Health Monitoring Unit has compressively monitored hospitals and health centres in 16 districts and their findings are shocking. In Ntungamo District, they discovered 33 ghost primary health centres, employing a total of 483 staff. The money that was paid out to these ghosts in terms of salaries and allowances amounted to Shs 480 million. This matter is still being investigated and responses are awaited. In Nansana, Wakiso District, they registered a suspect and recovered essential medicines worth 1.5 billion. The suspect was charged with theft and impersonation. In Bugiri Hospital, a water pump valued at Shs 14 million, which had been stolen, was recovered and taken back to the hospital administration. In Mulago National Referral Hospital, investigations are on-going into financial and human resource mismanagement. A report from the Auditor- General reveals a loss of over Shs 20 billion. In Kampala, an individual masquerading as a medical doctor was arrested together with four nurses after they injected what was disguised as COVID-19 vaccine in over 500 staff of banks, companies and factories. The matter is before Nakawa Court. vii) Financial Intelligence Authority received 8,627 suspicious transaction reports, out of which 186 reports relating to money laundering, corruption, fraud and terrorism financing were sent to law enforcement agencies for further action. A total of nine intelligence reports related to corruption were sent to the Inspectorate of Government and their successful prosecution will lead to the possible recovery of Shs 6.4 billion. viii) The Leadership Code Tribunal has concluded 10 cases through Alternative Dispute Resolution, and imposed fines totalling to Shs 10.9 million on the respondents, out of which Shs 5.9 million has been paid to the Consolidated Fund. ix) The Directorate for Ethics and Integrity (DEI) spearheaded an amendment of the Leadership Code Act, 2021 to require all public officers to declare their income, assets and liabilities to the IGG, and as the minister, I made regulations prescribing the declaration form. The DEI coordinates implementation of the Zero Tolerance to Corruption Policy, and has established

The districts to be connected are: Buikwe, Bukomansimbi, Butambala, Buvuma, Gomba, Kalangala, Kalungu, Kampala, Kassanda, Kayunga, Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, Kyotera, Luwero, Lwengo, Lyantonde, Masaka, Mityana, Mpigi, Mubende, Mukono, Nakaseke, Nakasongola, Rakai, Ssembabule, Wakiso, Bugweri, Kitagwenda –(Interjections) - that is central. I am going region by region. In eastern Uganda, we have Amuria, Budaka, Bududa, Bugiri, Bukedea, Bukwo, Bulambuli, Busia, Namayingo, Butaleja, Butebo, Buyende, Iganga, Jinja, Kaberamaido, Kaliro, Kamuli, Kapchorwa, Katakwi, Kibuku, Kumi, Kween, Luuka, Manafwa, Mayuge, Mbale, Namisindwa, Namutumba, Ngora, Pallisa, Serere, Sironko, Soroti, Tororo, Kalaki and Kapelebyong.

Madam Speaker, I am talking about a confirmed case, not a probable one. This case was confirmed by the ministry and the lady was buried in Butale yet now for a week, you do not have those contacts. One of the contacts is said to be in Bugiri, another one is in Jinja; I am talking about serious things.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. The issue I raise relates to human rights observance in this country. The country is facing serious challenges regarding human rights. Ugandans are being arrested without following the law. The Constitution states that if one is to arrest a Ugandan, the arresting officer must first identify themselves. Secondly, the arresting officer(s) must inform the person they are arresting, in the language they understand, why they are being arrested. Thirdly, they must be taken to a gazetted detention facility; and fourth, the detention must not be beyond 48 hours. That is what the Constitution states, Madam Speaker. However, Rt Hon. Prime Minister, those constitutional provisions have consistently been abrogated. I want to find out whether you have plans of ensuring that we get back on the constitutional order. Relatedly, Rt Hon. Prime Minister, the Speaker has raised an issue to do with her personal security. If really the Speaker is facing assassination threats, where does that leave the rest of us? In your communication, you said the matter will be investigated; that is a casual statement. Are you planning, for example, to enhance her security and the security of the others? Really, if the third highest person in the country can face assassination threats, how about Hon. Kayemba Ssolo, a peasant from Bukomansimbi? What about a humble Basalirwa from Bugiri? How have we reached this level of threatening assassinations? Rt Hon. Prime Minister, I come from a community, in this country, that has been a victim of assassinations: Muslim clerics. So, when I hear about assassination threats, I do not take them lightly. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, over and above the issue of investigation, is this something that concerns you? I am sure by the time the Speaker mentioned it on the Floor – in the words of Chinua Achebe – the handshake has gone beyond the elbow. I want to imagine that. I invite the Frontbench - our brother, Gen. Katumba, over there just survived an assassination attempt that took the life of his beloved daughter. I am sure investigations are still going on up to now. As a House, this is a matter that, ideally, I think, we would commit some time to discuss. Tomorrow, it will be the Chief Whip and the other day, the Shadow Attorney-General. If you have now targeted the Speaker, you are next, going to target my Jjaja , the Rt Hon. Prime Minister, because she is next in the queue. You then will go to my brother, Hon. Obua, the Government Chief Whip and then my classmate, the Deputy Attorney-General, Jackson Kafuuzi. So, the issue of assassinations, as a modus operandi in this country, is a matter that we must address and a matter that the Prime Minister should comment on, over and above the premise of investigating, yet she is still very busy with Nyege Nyege . (Laughter)

He specifically raised concern regarding the land acquisition process being undertaken in that area. Madam Speaker, as per your guidance, my ministry undertook to provide clarification in respect of the operations of Rwenzori Rare Metals Company in Bugiri, Bugweri, Iganga and Mayuge districts. Background My ministry carried out an airborne geophysical survey covering 80 percent of Uganda in 2005. The survey detected potential for rare earth elements in Makuutu, among other findings. Subsequently, my ministry granted an exploration licence to Rwenzori Rare Metals. Further, geological studies by Rwenzori Rare Metals, including drilling, have revealed 532 million tons of ore containing rare earth elements. The exploration activities have confirmed the existence of rare earth elements in mineable quantities in three districts of Mayuge, Bugweri and Bugiri. The rare earth element deposits found within the Makuutu Rare Earth Project Area is one of the largest in the world, after South China. Rare earth elements are essential for the manufacture of medical equipment, smartphones, laptops, crude oil processing, batteries for electric vehicles, and wind turbines, among many other uses. Rare earth elements are critical for the global transition from fossil fuel to renewable energy. Rare earth elements are key in many new and upcoming technologies; technological applications in electronics, including computers, lighting, magnets, and various other uses. With this innovation, the ministry will ensure that Uganda minerals are explored and exploited in a sustainable manner that supports the growth of the economy of the country, and uplifts the standards of living of our people. The Makuutu Rare Earth Project is one of the key projects that can lead to the industrialisation of Uganda and position the country on the international stage as one of the very few countries in the world that mine rare earth elements. Currently, the production of rare earth elements is dominated by China; so we would only be second to China. The exploration and development of the project requires land access and support from the community and the different leaders. The land acquisition laws of Uganda ensure that adequate and fair compensation will be paid judiciously to the land owners that would be affected. Compensation, land access and resettlement for Project Affected Person (PAPs) The ministry will ensure that where PAPs properties, including land and infrastructure are affected, the PAPs will be duly compensated or resettled before the company can utilise the land. There will be no evictions carried out by the company. The ministry is aware that the development of the Makuutu project will create lots of benefits to the community and the country both through direct and indirect benefits that come with such projects. The development of the project will also cause temporary and permanent resettlement impacts in the project area. Rare earth mineral is currently developing a resettlement action

Honourable minister – is Hon. Silwany here? Hon. Silwany asked about the mining project in Wawanga Parish in Bugiri. There are people who are purported to have been given a licence. We needed to know from you if it is true. Did they follow the right procedures? Did you do due diligence on these people? Are they the rightful people to be doing what they are doing?