Kasese District

401 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 JULY 2026 The President authorised us to open up four centres. We have so far opened one in Arua. Arua is the area that oversees West Nile. We have also opened one in Kasenyi across Ntoroko, Lake Albert. We have also deployed experts in Bunia and Rwampara, which is in the centre of Ituri. We have sent over 50 specialist health workers in Uganda to support our counterparts in Congo. We also agreed on joint surveillance, joint monitoring, and sharing information. We have established a laboratory in Arua and Bwera in Kasese. Some of the samples from Congo are brought to our laboratories, one at the Uganda Virus Research Institute and another in Wandegeya. We have joint collaborative activities. Although we now register zero cases in Uganda, the collaborative interventions continue and we shall work with Congo until we register the last case.

Let the Prime Minister engage all the leaders from the border districts. Hon. Sarah Itungu, from Kasese.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am Sarah Itungu Masereka, the Woman Representative, Kasese District. Firstly, I appreciate the Government through the Ministry of Health for the quick intervention at the border of Kasese in Mpondwe Ihubiriha Town Council. The porous border of 60 kilometres is closed. All the markets are closed. They had said it would take three weeks, but it is now beyond two weeks. The people, especially the women, 70 per cent of whom work in those markets, now do not have a daily income. I therefore request through you that the Office of the Prime Minister should really intervene in this disaster by giving something to our people that can alleviate hunger. The whole area of the business export zone is closed, and I request through the Minister of Disaster Preparedness, as well as the Minister of Health, to intervene. I also thank the security team in the district of Kasese headed by the RDC, Joe Walusimbi, for the quick intervention into this matter. Thank you very much.

407 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 JULY 2026 First of all, like most of the border districts, the schools were closed, markets closed, churches closed, and the police tear-gassed all those public venues. Now, I would like to join my sister from Kasese in demanding that, as quickly as next week, the Government help our people by sending relief aid, particularly to those areas bordering Congo like Dei sub- county. Jonam suffers drought, they do not have their land, and there is a lot of problems. Thank you very much, Mr Speaker.

Thank you. In light of that, we close the debate because the Government is being urged and is already giving us a status report that “go ahead and urge us, but we are already doing it.” Can I put the question to the motion for a resolution of Parliament and that there are other districts like Kasese, which should also be considered?

Thank you. However, the motion was beyond Northern Uganda. It enumerated several areas but it is evident in places like Kasese. You even heard that in Ankole, their problem is not food but they want water for the drought. As a Speaker, this is the first time I am hearing that this is a big challenge. (Hon. Francis Oketcho rose_) Hon. Francis, what is it? We are closing this matter.

8 ADMINISTRATION OF OATHS 5. Kansiime Annah Woman Representative Rwampara NRM 6. Kanyesigye Mercy Youth Representative Female Independent 7. Kapyagon Brian Kongasis County Bukwo Independent 8. Karim Musa Aringa North County Yumbe Independent 9. Kasajja George Patrick Bulamogi North West County Kaliro NRM 10. Kasigwa Gerald Bihemaiso Kigorobya County Hoima NRM 11. Kasirye Nganda Ali Makindye East Division Kampala NUP 12. Kasukaali Methuselah Mwenge Central County Kyenjojo NRM 13. Kariisa Johnbosco Koy Buhweju West County Buhweju NRM 14. Katushabe Ruth Woman Representative Bukomansimbi NRM 15. Katusiime Annet Mugisha Woman Representative Bushenyi NRM 16. Kawalya Abubaker Rubaga Division North Kampala NUP 17. Kasaija Matia Buyanja County Kibaale NRM 18. Karuhanga Gerald Kafureeka Ntungamo Municipality Ntungamo Independent 19. Khalayi Peace Woman Representative Namisindwa NRMK 20. Kiirya Grace Paddy Wanzala Butembe County Jinja FDC 21. Kiiza Andrew N. Kaluya Kigulu County South Iganga NUP 22. Katushabe Doreen Birungi Woman Representative Lyantonde NRM 23. Kiyonga C.W.C.B. Bukonzo County West Kasese NRM 24. Muhwezi Jim Katugugu Rujumbura County Rukungiri NRM 25. Kenan Opio Busiro South Wakiso NRM 26. Kateshumbwa Dicksons Sheema Municipality Sheema NRM 27. Katusiime Jovia Woman Representative Kiryandongo NRM 28. Kiiza Kenneth Nyendwoha Bujenje County Masindi NRM 29. Kikabi Edward (Dr) Ntwetwe County Kyankwanzi NRM 30. Kinalwa James (Maj. Gen.) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 31. Kinobere Herbert Tom Kibuku County Kibuku Independent 32. Kinshaba Patience Nkunda Woman Representative Kanungu Independent 33. Kiruluuta Yusuf J. Nkerettanyi Kalungu County East Kalungu NUP 34. Kirumira Hassan Katikamu County South Luweero NUP 35. Kisekka Salim Bukomansimbi North County Bukomansimbi NRM 36. Kitiyo Patrick Kapchorwa Municipality Kapchorwa Independent 37. Kiyimba Emmanuel Bukoto County Mid-West Lwengo NRM 38. Kasule Ismail Hoima West Division Hoima City ANT 39. Khainza Agnes Shiuma Woman Representative Bududa NRM 40. Kugonza Emely Buyanja East County Kibaale NRM 41. Kungu Samuel Bamuteeze Kigulu County North Iganga NRM 42. Kwizera Eddie Wa-Gahungu Bukimbiri County Kisoro Independent 43. Kyambadde Amelia Ann Mawokota County North Mpigi NRM 44. Kyarampe Rebecca Woman Representative Mitooma NRM 45. Kyarikunda Loydah T. Woman Representative Mbarara NRM 46. Kisa Stephen Bakubalwayo Luuka South County Luuka NRM 47. Kavuma Samuel (Lt Gen.) UPDF N/A N/A 48. Kitanywa Sowedi Busongora County North Kasese NRM 49. Kizza Hakim Sawula Bukoto County South Lwengo NUP 50. Kuteesa Patrick Kimanya-Kabonera Division Masaka City NUP 51. Kwiyucwiny Grace Freedom Ora County Zombo NRM 52. Kibaaju Charity Kamuhanda Woman Representative Mbarara City NRM 53. Komol Joseph Miidi Dodoth North County Kaabong NRM 54. Karubanga Jacob Ateenyi Kibanda South County Kiryandongo Independent 55. Mwine Mpaka Rwamirama Mbarara South Division Mbarara City NRM

102. Maganda Julius Wandera Samia Bugwe County South Busia NRM 103. Malende Shamim Woman Representative Kampala NUP 104. Mayanja Moses Busiro County North Wakiso NRM 105. Mbalibulha Christopher K. Taban Bughendera County Bundibugyo Independent 106. Monday Julius Rude (Dr) Bukonzo County East Kasese NRM 107. Lule Eria Erick Kiboga West County Kiboga NRM 108. Meeme Sylvia (Col) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 109. Lwansasula Sarah Woman Representative Jinja City NUP 110. Modoi Isaac Lutseshe County Bududa NRM 111. Mpaata Salleh Bunya County South Mayuge NRM 112. Mubangizi Dedan Buwekula South County Mubende NRM 113. Luyimbazi Nalukoola Elias Kawempe Division North Kampala NUP 114. Masaba Muhamood Mutenyo Bungokho Central County Mbale NRM 115. Mbabazi Jacqueline Older persons Representative Western NRM 116. Migadde Robert Ndugwa Buvuma Islands County Buvuma NRM 117. Mudukoi Fred Oduchu Butebo County Butebo NRM 118. Namatovu Mastula Kamuli Municipality Kamuli NRM 119. Mugenyi Joseph Burahya County Kabarole NRM 120. Mudiobole Abedi Nasser Iganga Municipality Iganga NUP 121. Mugira James (Lt Gen.) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 122. Mugisa Margaret Muhanga Fort Portal North Division Fort Portal City NRM 123. Malinga Isaac Maikut Soi County Kween NRM 124. Masiko Henry Moses (Maj. Gen.) UPDF Representative N/A N/A 125. Mushabe Rujoki Ruth Woman Representative Kiruhura NRM 126. Mpindi Bumali PWD N/A Independent 127. Maseruka Robert Mukono County South Mukono NUP 128. Musinguzi Patrick Kashari North County Mbarara NRM 129. Muhenda Ronald Fort Portal Central Division Fort Portal City Independent 130. Muhooza Desire Woman Representative Kiboga NRM 131. Mujungu Jennifer K. Woman Representative Ntoroko NRM 132. Mujuni Asensio Maari Isingiro County South Isingiro NRM 133. Mukisa Robina Hope Woman Representative Namayingo NRM 134. Mukhaye Miriam Woman Representative Mbale NRM 135. Mulemya Ismail Sowed Busia Municipality Busia NRM 136. Mukiibi Eriasa Sserunjogi Butambala County Butambala Independent 137. Mulindwa David Isimbwa Busongora County South Kasese NRM 138. Mirembe Lydia Daphine Woman Representative Butambala Independent 139. Mugabe Robert Kitagwenda County Kitagwenda NRM 140. Mugabi Muzaale Martin Kisule Buzaaya County Kamuli NRM 141. Musa Noah Koboko North County Koboko NRM 142. Musanje Moses Njeru Municipality Buikwe NUP 143. Musasizi Henry Ariganyira Rubanda County East Rubanda NRM 144. Musila John Bubulo East County Namisindwa NRM 145. Musisi George Kira Municipality Wakiso NUP 146. Mutasingwa Diana Nankunda Woman Representative Buikwe NRM 147. Mutego Ronard Hangujja Bunyole East County Butaleja Independent 148. Nakku Fiona Female Workers Representative N/A Independent 149. Mutekanga Zadock Buhweju County Buhweju NRM 150. Mutonyi Rose Masaaba Woman Representative Manafwa Independent 151. Muyonjo Hussein Jinja North Division Jinja City NUP 152. Mwesigwa Mathias Rubabo County Rukungiri NRM

5 THE TWELFTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 13 MAY 2026 153. Ezama Siraji Brahan Aringa County Yumbe NRM 154. Fungaroo Kaps Hassan Obongi County Obongi FDC 155. Gashaija Shyaka Steven Entebbe Municipality Wakiso NRM 156. Goire Moses Budaka County Budaka NRM 157. Gonyi David Robert UPDF Representative N/A N/A 158. Guma David Gumisiriza Ibanda County North Ibanda NRM 159. Habyara Fortunate Bufumbira County North Kisoro NRM 160. Ibaseret Josephine Nkibs Agule County Pallisa NRM 161. Ibrahim Ibrahim Aisu Pallisa County Pallisa NRM 162. Ikiriza Knight UPDF Representative N/A N/A 163. Drito Martin Andi Upper Madi County Madi-Okollo NRM 164. Ilukol Emmanuel Bokora County Napak Independent 165. Isamat Abraham Kapir County Ngora NRM 166. Isingoma Patrick Mwesigwa Hoima East Division Hoima City Independent 167. Ismail Muhammad Lomwar Kotido Municipality Kotido NRM 168. Itungu Sarah Masereka District Woman Representative Kasese NRM 169. Jalameso Fred Ajuri County Alebtong UPC 170. Joyo Harriet District Woman Representative Obongi Independent 171. Kabaasa Balaba Bruce Rubanda County West Rubanda NRM 172. Kabanda David Kasambya County Mubende NRM 173. Kabasharira Naome Rushenyi County Ntungamo NRM 174. Kabuye Kyofa Nakaseke Central County Nakaseke NRM 175. Kafuuzi Jackson Karugaba Kyaka South County Kyegegwa NRM 176. Kaheeru Vincent Freedom Kyaka North County Kyegegwa NRM 177. Kahima Moses Mugabe Ruhaama East County Ntungamo NRM 178. Kajwengye Twinomugisha Wilson N y a b u s h o z i C o u n t y Kiruhura NRM 179. Kaka Lubega Ismail Uthuman Kakuuto County Kyotera NRM 180. Kakooza Joseph Buwekula County Mubende NRM 181. Kaliisa Jovrine Kyomukama District Woman Representative Ibanda NRM 182. Kambale Ferigo Kasese Municipality Kasese NRM 183. Kampanya Abdu Swaibu Iki-Iki County Budaka NRM 184. Kanaabi Jimmy Buikwe County South Buikwe NUP (The House rose at 4.18 p.m. and adjourned until Thursday, 14 May 2026 at 8.00 a.m.)

Exactly! What I have seen with UNRA is that they have only changed the logo, and yet they used to have very good workshops. What about districts like Ntungamo, Isingiro, Kasese, or Oyam that are too big, in terms of equipment? The President promised that they will be given additional equipment and additional Shs 1 billion for road maintenance.

18628 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 districts that are too big – districts like Isingiro, Kasese, Oyam, Yumbe – there are about six districts. He said they were going to give them additional equipment – that is number one. Secondly, he also said they were going to give them additional Shs 1 billion for road maintenance. When we had a top political meeting on the budget, the President even emphasised to the PS/ST that this money must be provided. The equipment can be in a phased manner, but the money for road maintenance should start this financial year.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. On that issue of the “big districts”, when you look at Ntungamo, Isingiro and Kasese, we consider both the size of the district and the population, which increases the economic activities, of course, because the people are many. When you look at Ntungamo, Isingiro, Kasese and other districts whose population is high, you find that when you work on the road, within just three months, you need to go back. Then, there is the issue of the terrain. Isingiro, Kasese and Ntungamo districts are hilly. So, you find that even working on a bridge is very expensive. We have been finding it very difficult to manage our constituencies, because we manage them as sub-districts. The money we get from here, in allowances, we use it to work on our roads. We even hire private graders from Mbarara. We have people who have private graders. One time, I worked on 40 kilometres. Another time, I worked on 60-something kilometres, because my constituency alone has more than 100 kilometres of district roads. That is the challenge. I thank you, Madam Speaker, for encouraging us to make sure that we give those districts extra money first, and then the equipment can come later – because we borrow from the neighbouring districts.

18648 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 Rugonjo-Nkenda, 132 KV rehabilitation. It is aimed at upgrading the aged 132 KV wooden pole lines to higher-capacity steel pole lines because most of these lines are now breaking down. The locations that will be covered are provided for under the third column, and they include Wakiso, Gomba, Butambala, Bukomansimbi, Sembabule, Masaka, Lwengo, Kyotera, Rakai, Kalungu, Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, Mubende, Kyenjojo, Kibaale, Kagadi, Hoima, and Kasese. Madam Speaker, when we appear before most of the honourable members and in the budget committee, they usually ask this specific committee to report on where power projects, water projects, and mineral beneficiation projects are going to be located. It is the reason the committee laboured this time to report in this format, so that people here know that if Government is placing money, we are placing it for this specific project. I beg to request, Madam Speaker, that we be given time.

Thank you. Madam Speaker, on the project on Industrial Parks Electrification Phase II, the intended project is to construct substations and power lines to supply power to industrial parks. This will include the Sukulu Hills in Tororo, Mbale Industrial Park, Kapeeka Park in Nakaseke, the Wobulenzi Park in Luwero, and Nakasongola-Kaweweta Defense Industrial Park, amongst others. Under the Kampala Metropolitan Transmission System Improvement Project, we intend to have an upgrade of the Kawaala, Mutundwe, Mukono, and Buloba-related infrastructure. Madam Speaker, the planned area of benefit is Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono environs. Madam Speaker, there is the ORIO Mini Hydro and Rural Electrification Project. The ministry intends to undertake construction of the mini hydro infrastructure, 288-kilometre distribution network, and 71,081 last-mile connections, particularly intended for areas in Hoima, Nchweera, Igassa, and Nsongya. Forgive my pronunciation due to cultural challenges. On the Kiba Hydropower Project, the ministry is undertaking a feasibility study, the environmental sustainability impact assessment, and access works and stakeholder engagement for this mini project, which is intended to be constructed in Nwoya and Kiryandongo districts. The Oriang Hydropower Project is still the same, and it is intended to be located in Nwoya and Oyam districts. On the Ayago Hydropower Project, preparatory studies are to be undertaken, as well as stakeholder management activities. The same is in Nwoya and Kiryandongo areas. Under the Buyende Nuclear Power Plant site evaluation is going to be undertaken, including meteorological tower installation, seismic and groundwater monitoring, and a resettlement action plan finalisation. This project will be located in Buyanja Subcounty in Buyende District. Madam Speaker, on the geothermal development, there is an intention to undertake deep exploration and drilling, as well as undertake surface studies. This project will be in Kibiro in Hoima, in Panyimur in Pakwach, in Okidi in Amuru, Karungu in Rubanda, Ihimbo in Rukungiri, and Kabuga in Kasese. The electricity access scale-up project

18649 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 APRIL 2026 This project intends to ensure the connection of 1,073,500 new connections of people to the electricity grid. The distribution is as follows: Central Region, 497,106; Eastern Region, 216,616; Northern, 140,337; and Western Uganda, 219,441 new connections, all amounting to 1,073,500 new connections. Under the mineral exploration and beneficiation projects, there is exploration and support for the mineral value chains. This is to improve the value of the minerals that are being obtained by the various artisanal as well as developed miners. This is planned for in Ssembabule, Buhweju, Iganga, Luweero, Kyenjojo, Ntungamo, Kazo, Kiboga, Kassanda, Mubende, Nakasongola, Mityana, and Nakaseke districts. On the Kilembe redevelopment and mineral value addition, the Government intends to support mining, processing, and mineral value addition under the Kilembe project. This will be located in Kilembe, which is in Kasese. There will also be Busia, Mbarara, Iganga, Jinja, Tororo, Rubanda, Kampala, and other mineral processing points in the country. Observations on Vote 017 The committee welcomes -

18651 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 APRIL 2026 intended for Laropi and Lefori in Moyo, Akoro and Pangila, and Padibe West in Lamwo. The institutional water supply and sanitation project This one is intended to supply the Arocha prison in Apac and the Iceme health centre and surrounding areas in Oyam. The rural growth centre schemes in Ewanga in Madi-Okollo, Edrayo in Terego, Rodo and Nyori in Yumbe. The gravity and piped water schemes are intended for Ambe GFS in Zombo, the Ogili water supply and sanitation scheme in Agago, as well as Pader. The solar-powered schemes for Achukudu solar RGC in Napak. Colleagues, I am sure that the Hon Faith Nakut is now going to give me a bit- Table 12, in the Eastern region. There are rural growth centre piped water projects that are intended for Bulange in Namutumba, Nango in Mayuge, Bubugo- Itanda in Jinja, and Kagumba in Kamuli. Additional rural growth centre schemes, one intended for Oyama RGC in Kaberamaido. The institutional water supply and sanitation schemes in Ivukula prisons and the surrounding areas in Namutumba. The public sanitation facilities are intended for Mulatsi S.S. in Mbale and Lubani SSS in Jinja. The urban and small town water system schemes under the Water and Sanitation Development Facility East. In Manafwa, Bulangira, Bukumi, Kaproron, Kadungulu, Iyolwa, Mukura, Atutur and Mbale Industrial Park. Central region The ministry intends to undertake piped water schemes in Nankondo in Ssembabule, Moone in Nakasongola and Bulera in Mityana. The institutional water and sanitation schemes - Masaka Army Barracks. The solar-powered water schemes in Kyegegwa, Rakai, Namayingo and Buvuma districts. Then the other additional schemes and extensions are intended for Ngoma, Nyanseke, Busaale, Lunya, Kapeeka Industrial Park extension and Kikuube. In Western and Southwestern regions The major towns and cluster water systems. In Nyakashaka and Rubaya in Buhweju and Mbarara, Mabira, Bukiro, and Nyabisirira, Ntungamo Industrial Park, among others. The integrated water management and development schemes Kaliro-Namungalwe and Kyegegwa-Mpara- Ruyonza-Kabagore. This is the learned DAGs area. Isingiro water and sanitation scheme That is for the Isingiro District. Institutional water schemes in Butanda Secondary School in Kabale, Rugazi Health Centre IV in Rubirizi, and Ishekye School of the Handicapped in Sheema. The rural growth schemes Kyampangara and Nyamushojwa in Kazo, Kasaba in Kyenjojo, Rwentuha in Kyegegwa and Buhanda in Mubende. The solar-powered scheme Bikone and Isule-Katebenyangorongo in Kasese; Kagunga Iremera 1, Iremera 2 in Kisoro; and the Rubanda extension scheme.

18652 CONSIDERATION OF THE BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2026/2027 The gravity-piped water schemes are intended for Mbunga-Nyakazinga and Bughema in Kasese, and Mpunga in Kanungu. The climate-span smart wash clusters for Rwere in Kateretere, Bugarama-Karweru and Kagarama-Bushura-Kibuzigye in Rubanda, Kabale and Kisoro areas. Karamoja region schemes Under the institutional water schemes, Nadunget SS in Moroto, Amita Prisons in Abim. Public sanitation facilities There shall be two institutions in Karenga and one in Ngora. Additional water schemes in Kalapata, Lorengedwat, Tokora, Kathile listed under the broader solar and service expansion. The committee notes that the ministry’s water for production portfolio is particularly important in the drought-prone and livestock- dependent areas for expanding irrigation agriculture. Colleagues, we have selected water for production projects, which you will all see. I want to allow you to see them by yourselves. Under table 16, in Isingiro, Kanungu, and then those in Karamoja. Another area that will be covered is Agule in Kalaki, Soroti District, Bulusambu in Mbale, Biduku in Nakaseke, Kiryandongo, Masaka, Oyam, Gulu, Nwoya, among others. There will be solar-powered irrigation water systems also cited in the numerous areas across Central, Eastern, Northern, Karamoja, and Southwestern regions. Colleagues, the other aspects are those that I believe we will go through. I just would like to invite you to the aspect of the unfunded priority under Vote 019. Madam Speaker, the committee notes that under the project 2041- this is 7.6 colleagues: 100 per cent Service Coverage Acceleration project, (SCAP 100, Umbrellas Phase II), the Ministry of Water and Environment has identified critical financing gaps for targeted investments in water pipeline extensions, power extensions to pump stations, off-grid solar installations, and pump stations and drilling of production wells in small towns, rural growth centers, and the six umbrella and water and sanitation projects countrywide. Colleagues, in totality, the SCAP 100 project was in response to His Excellency, the President’s promise that every village in Uganda should have at least one clean water source. So, SCAP 100 was intended to ensure that water sources are placed in districts and in administrative units such as sub-counties, so as to distribute water using piped water systems. So SCAP 100 is crucial because it responds to the Government’s undertaking to the citizens. Here, the committee identified a funding gap of Shs 35.85 billion for Financial Year 26/27, which would support the undertaking of rehabilitation of water supply and sanitation skip schemes, as well as extend 5,000 kilometers of pipeline water to provide for 5,000 new water connections in the various communities of the country. The committee further notes an unfunded requirement under the water and sanitation development facilities that are responsible for the design, construction, and setting up of infrastructure for rural water supply. Colleagues, the unfunded priorities under Vote 019 are provided for under table 18. Madam Speaker, permit me to conclude with National Water and Sewerage Corporation. National Water and Sewerage Corporation remains central to urban water service delivery and to several other sectors, most visible investments in towns and municipalities. The committee notes that National Water and Sewerage Corporation medium-term financial and investment plan covers five projects currently supported by government

There are two things that you need to – honourable minister, two things; the PDM, Shs 15 billion, and then the Shs 1 billion to Isingiro, Ntungamo, Kasese and Yumbe; the big districts. They were about five big districts – an additional Shs 1 billion plus additional equipment – and Oyam District.

Somebody disrupted the Speaker at that point. I did make that acknowledgement. Alterations can happen. You plan for A, by the end of the day, you are not able to meet it or maybe you have acquired some more money so you want to do it better. That can happen. I said, we generally shift these financial goalposts a lot. I dwelt a great deal on supplementary. I hope that, honourable minister, in that Shs 84.2 trillion worth of budget, there will not be the kind of supplementaries we see here all the time that are not unforeseeable because the Act talks about unforeseeable. People normally bring supplementary budgets here, including for salaries. That is fiscal indiscipline. Plan for your staff and let the unforeseeable be; a disaster has happened in Bududa, in Kasese, in wherever –

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am the Shadow Minister of Education and Sports. I have been in this Parliament for three terms, and I have never left the Committee on Education and Sports. Kasese, where the honourable member comes from, has a university called Mountains of the Moon, and it is crippling. Our rules – [Hon. Kiiza: “Order.”] They stopped you from -

18005 Wednesday, 17 September 2025 the Diocese and the people of Kasese, for the work and support. Mr Speaker, I rise on a matter of national importance, first of all, thanking the President and the Government of Uganda for the good relationship between the two entities. The Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu Kingdom had an interaction with the President of Uganda relating to rebuilding the Rwenzururu Kingdom and creating an income-generating project. As a matter of fact, the Government agreed to buy for the kingdom the Gen. Kazini Hotel in Kasese, to provide income for it. The third point, Mr Speaker, was to create a Nyabaghole Women and Girl Fund to support the women and girls in the Kasese community and to provide the royal guards’ families with a resettlement package. Lastly, Mr Speaker, was to take care of the medical bills and facilitate a specialised treatment for the King. Mr Speaker, I respectfully ask the Government to work with the Rwenzururu Kingdom, specifically the Prime Minister, and have a clear plan and a roadmap on when some of these things, or all of them, will be actualised. I really appreciate you for the opportunity.

Thank you. Honourable members, I welcome you to today’s sitting. Matters of national importance. (Hon. Luttamaguzi rose_) State the rule under which you are rising and proceed with your submission. (Laughter) Honourable members, there is a polite way of asking me for an opportunity to talk. You can always do it better. Hon. Atkins Katusabe? MR ATKINS KATUSABE (FDC, Bukonzo County West, Kasese); Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. First of all, I thank you for making it to Kasese. The bishop asked me to deliver his deepest gratitude to you –

17941 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 10 SEPTEMBER 2025 Madam Speaker, you raised a couple of pertinent issues, especially those to do with the human-wildlife conflict. I wish to inform this Parliament that we are constructing an electric fence in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls and we intend to add an additional 100 kilometres around the Murchison Falls; and we have done districts of Nwoya and Oyam. We are currently doing Buliisa, Kiryandongo and Masindi. We have done Kasese, Kitagwenda, Kanungu, Rubirizi, and we are currently doing Rukugiri. We intend to add another 50 kilometres. One of the areas that has been the biggest hotspot, is the Karenga or the Kidepo Valley Community Wildlife area. Through a directive from His Excellency, the President, but also with support of this Parliament, we are going to start by doing 128 kilometres of the Karenga, that is Karamoja, Kitgum and the districts around. We believe that in the next three to four years, we should be able to have finished fencing all these protected areas. Madam Speaker, the challenge has been because of the too much demand and pressure we have put as a population on most of these areas, most of the elephant corridors have been occupied by communities. These animals do not forget where they used to go and graze from, even as babies. They usually tend to trace where their parents probably - and it is something that they have in their memory. The only solution is to have them confined and it is something we are dealing with, plus other interventions to do with conversation and the rest. On the issues of the infrastructure - I want to thank the Government. In most of the protected areas, there is some good access and I want to assure the people around Ajai that with the reintroduction of the rhinos, definitely, you will see an improvement in infrastructure, not only by the Government, but even by the private sector. That is why it is important that we have this circuit completed and Ajai is included in the tourism circuit within the country. With those few remarks, thank you, Madam Speaker, for your support in the reintroduction of rhinos and your continued support as Parliament to the tourism sector and the support this country has given, because where there is no peace, there is no tourism. I always tell my brother, Hon. Ssenyonyi, that the only way we can sell this country is speaking good about it and selling the good. Hon. Ssenyonyi, I invite you and the entire Parliament on a one-week tour around the country so that you share, but you have a free invitation so that –(Interjection)– No, on our budget, yes -

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. On Thursday, 4 September 2025, you directed the minister, Hon. Dr Chris Baryomunsi, to follow up on the disaster waiting to happen at the RDC’s compound. As I speak right now, I can see all over the Kasese WhatsApp messaging groups showing the presence of teargas and live bullets. Your fellow citizens are being forcefully evicted out of the camp, yet this very Parliament, from that constitutional chair, Madam Speaker, directed the Government to make an undertaking. I am meant to understand, at least from what our minister, Hon. Dr Baryomunsi committed himself to, to table the same matter and bring it to the attention of Cabinet this Monday. Madam Speaker, I want to know, are we in this very House declaring that the RDC is above the law? We cannot reduce our constitutional powers because everybody, all of us, are under the law. There is nobody above the law, including the RDC. I do not want to believe that this Parliament is ready to cede its constitutional powers.

Hon. Sarah, when you refer to the Constitution, I also want to refer you to the same Constitution under Article 163(5), which states that Parliament shall, within six months after the submission of the report referred to in clause 4 of this Article, debate, consider the report, and take appropriate action. The reports that we have given out have gone beyond six months. It is a constitutional provision, and we swore to uphold this Constitution. Secondly, there is a precedent that was set in this House in August 2020. There was a motion, which was moved in this House, and you were here when Hon. Nandala-Mafabi brought a motion, and the then Speaker - the motion took the day because it was decided that where an accountability committee does not consider the report within the prescribed time of the Constitution, it shall be adopted. It is not a matter of debate. Next item. Honourable members, in the public gallery this afternoon, we have pupils and teachers of Kagando Primary School, Kasese. They are represented by Hon. Kabugo Florence and Hon. Muhindo Tony. Please, join me in welcoming them.

17878 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT the Members and NPA’s guidance, they were pushed from 41 to 55 districts benefiting from this project. We also looked at the RELIV Implementation Manual, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development’s letter dated 21st on the financial implications of the loan and the RELIV Appraisal documents; the procurement plant, the management structure and the Physical and Financial Progress Report on externally-funded projects. Madam Speaker, the committee went ahead and looked at the performance of previous projects that were under the sector, and more specifically, the one for Uganda’s Climate Smart Agriculture, which is actually not doing very well. The loan was approved on 25 June 2024. The closure is supposed to be 2028 and the loan amount is $325 million. To date, the disbursement is only $26.51 million, translating to 7.6 per cent of the loan amount. We were also looking at loans that are not doing very well in the project. For example, the one for irrigation for climate resilience, which was approved in December 2020. To date, the disbursement is only 21 per cent. We looked at the National Oilseed Project, which was approved in July 2021, which was $99.59 million. The disbursement is only 19 per cent. Madam Speaker, the committee looked at the project’s target population of 200,000 households. That has been stated by the minister. The minister has gone through the objectives and the beneficiaries of the project. Like I said, the project will be allocated in 55 districts. An annexure is attached. Some districts were not part of it, but with the intervention, a few other districts were also included. The annexure has 51 districts, but the districts of Kumi, Kabale, Kasese and Namutumba were added while looking at other parameters – (Interjections) - we shall find out from the minister.

17797 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 4 SEPTEMBER 2025 and Article 24 is also crystal clear in regard to the freedom from torture, inhumane and degrading treatment. Lastly, Article 23 is also clear on the freedom of personal liberty. On 19 August 2025, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kasese summoned a joint committee of security to unleash terror on law-abiding and peace-loving citizens. As a matter of fact, on 22 August, a man or a fellow citizen was brutalised and ended up losing his life at St. Paul Hospital, Kasese. The fact is very simple. The Government –

Yes, Madam Speaker, thank you. I do not know who was tampering with the system. (Laughter) Thank you for your kindness and generosity. The people of Kasese are not asking for too much. They are asking for timely justice, and as fellow citizens, they deserve the right to live. You cannot walk into a camp and deprive somebody of their right to live. All lives matter, including the lives of the Kasese people and elsewhere - including - I can say, citizens of the world. My prayers are: 1. Government, please fast-track this. We want this predicament and matter solved comprehensively. 2. Additionally, compensation be made to the family that lost a fellow citizen in the name of Mr Stephen Muhindo Esenge, now deceased. Madam Speaker, you will allow me, if this is not handled, I will continue coming back to this House, raising the same matter until this is comprehensively solved by the Government. Thank you.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I also thank Hon. Katusabe for raising an issue that affects the people of Kasese. I know there are people in Kasese who have been living in a camp and the Government has been trying

17798 THE VALUATION BILL, 2024 to resettle them. I do not know exactly what triggered what he is describing, but I undertake to get in touch with Hon. Katusabe and the RDC and establish the facts – (Interjections) - Hon. Opendi was helping me – (Laughter) - to get the information. As Parliament sits, I want to get in touch with Hon. Katusabe and the RDC of Kasese to establish the facts on what exactly triggered that action from the RDC. The Government does not condone disturbing the peace of the people and appropriate measures will be taken. Then, we can update the House. If I get full information, I can even update the House before we conclude the sitting.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. My brother, Hon. Ssenyonyi, today is shooting on all cylinders. First, the Leader of the Opposition has made reference to a ruling that he tabled yesterday, which I have not yet had the privilege of looking at. However, be that as it may, yes, the Supreme Court made a decision. I have stood on the Floor of Parliament before and told you that there is a process ongoing. I do understand that they may not have moved at the pace that you require them to, but I did pledge here, when my brother, the Member from Kasese, raised the issue of Col (Rtd) Dr Besigye, I said, these files are moving, give us time. The office of the DPP is working. We pledge as Government and as a ministry because we are bound by the decision of the Supreme Court. We will meet it. Just give us time. On the issue of IPOD, we are working on the regulations. Give us the necessary time. They will come. I beg to submit.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise to present a matter that is more or less a disaster waiting to happen in Kasese.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. The matter I have is related to an incident that occurred on 2 nd August. This was a tragic accident along Mityana road highway where Daystar Junior School children, about 11 of them, were seriously injured, and two died. Madam Speaker, the Ministry of Education and Sports should come to explain how trips are conducted in schools. What we know is the time of driving, the advance planning, and the age restriction. I am still wondering how a school can get nursery school children from Kampala to go for an excursion in Kasese. Nursery children? I am – (Interjections) - kindly, Members, these are facts I have in my head. I have been a professional teacher; I know what I am saying. Whether it is a P.1 to P.3 child, sending them on that journey is unprecedented. How do they determine – (Interjection) - honourable member, I have just started. Let me drive this point home.

Madam Speaker, he is too tall, so for people who are short like me, when you take a photo with him, you look like a dwarf. (Laughter) In brief, he should prepare a stool. Thank you so much. Madam Speaker, I have another question from Hon. Veronica Nanyondo, the District Woman MP of Bukomansimbi. Her prayer is that there is an effect on the implementation of the new lower secondary school curriculum on primary school leavers. Can the Government update us on this matter? My response is that at the moment, primary school leavers transition from the knowledge- based curriculum to competence-based curriculum in secondary school, under the revised lower secondary school curriculum. The process of revising the primary school curriculum to make it competence-based has already commenced to harmonise curriculum designs across primary and secondary level education. Once this is complete, the learners will be introduced to competence-based teaching and learning from primary school and progress with it to secondary education. I got another question from Hon. Ronald Balimwezo Nsubuga, MP for Nakawa Division East. He says that Uganda has very many experienced jua kalis, but they have no industrial parks and have continued to operate in a domestic setting, with very high electricity and water domestic tariffs. This is something that has crippled their businesses, yet they compete with investors who operate in Government industrial parks. These investors in Government industrial parks have always been incentivised in the form of tax exemptions, low electricity and water tariffs. This makes it harder for the jua kalis to compete favourably with them in the same market. His prayer is; When is the Government going to set up jua kali industrial parks? My response is that in this principle, for all Ugandan investors - if they all go through the Uganda Investment Authority, industrial parks have been designed with spaces specifically planned for setting up Small and Medium- sized Enterprises (SMEs), which cater for jua kali artisan activities. SME parks of 20 acres have been planned in all the operational industrial parks of Namanve, Soroti, Kasese, SINO-Mbale, and others. The Uganda Investment Authority also acquired the Mbarara SME Park of 12 acres that has been handed back to Gatsby Group, the SME artisans from Mbarara. The Government’s vision is to develop new industrial parks in phases, depending on the availability of resources in Gulu, Nebbi, Arua, Madi-Okollo, Yumbe, Pader, Paidha, Dokolo, Rukungiri, Isingiro, Oyam, Lira, Hoima, Buliisa, Kisoro, Kakumiro, Nakasongola, Luwero, Nakaseke, Mubende, Mityana, Masaka, Kabale, Bushenyi, Tororo, Rakai, Kamuli, Kween, Busia, Soroti, Gomba, Kayunga, Kyegegwa , and Iganga, where land has been mobilised by districts and already offered to Uganda Investment Authority for industrial development to foster innovation and equitable, sustainable industrial growth. Madam Speaker, the major infrastructure, for example, workplaces with shared common user facilities such as production equipment, showrooms for Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to use as they sell and grow their businesses, will be constructed within the said industrial parks. 10. Hon. Lucy Akello, the District Woman Member of Parliament for Amuru, raised an issue on the lack of radiologists in the regional referral hospitals like Gulu, Soroti, Mbale and others.

…59,901 persons with disabilities. Madam Speaker, I have provided an additional Shs 404.9 billion for social protection next Financial Year 2025/2026. Water, Sanitation, and Environmental Protection To improve the quality of life, the Government continues to invest in the provision of safe water, improve sanitation, and ensure protection of the environment. These include the following: (i) Villages in Uganda with at least one safe water source have remarkably increased to eight out of every 10 villages. Nationwide, 57,951 villages out of 71,225 have been served with a safe water source. (ii) Completed construction of 259 medium and large solar-powered water supply and sanitation systems and gravity flow schemes across the country. (iii) The construction of 42 large solar-powered water supply systems is ongoing in Agago, Yumbe, Amudat, Kaabong, Kasese, Kakumiro, Sembabule, Kisoro, Rubanda, Bulambuli, Kyankwanzi, Mubende, Kyegegwa, Buyende, Nakaseke, Namayingo, Rakai and Buvuma. (iv) With regard to clean water, the construction of piped town water supply systems is ongoing in 32 towns. These include: Namasale, Kakingol, Kamuli, Ngoma Town, Lunya, Karogo Phase II, Ishaka (mobilisation), Nyakashaka, Bukumi, Kanapa, and Odongai. Construction is also ongoing in Palabek-Kal, Rhino Camp, Arra-Dufile, Lubeli Refugee Settlement, Bolori, Nyanseke, Busaale, Kibuzi, and expansion in two towns of Kiboga and Zigoti. Other beneficiary towns are: Lamwo, Lacekocot, Iri-Iri, Lorengecora, Manafwa, Butaleja-Busolwe, Tirinyi-Kibuku-Kadama- Budaka, Kaliro-Namungalwe, Rukungiri and Obongi. (v) The construction of various water supply systems in 26 districts is at varying levels of physical progress. These include: Manafwa Town Council and the installation of solar packages that is ongoing in Losilang, Kasawo (Phase I), Kabura-Mwizi (Phase I), Bukumi, Bulangira and Kyebando-Kasimbi, and Busaale Town. Also, the Government is starting the development of new piped water supply systems in Rubanda, Kabale, Alebtong, Nakasongola, and Kamuli districts, among others. Madam Speaker, I have provided an additional Shs 366.1 billion next financial year for water resource management, climate change mitigation, natural resources and environment. The priority interventions include: the construction of water supply infrastructure to increase service in the underserved communities in rural, urban and refugee settlements; increasing rehabilitation and expansion of existing Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure; and increasing forest and wetland cover. Overall, I have allocated a total of Shs 11.44 trillion in the next financial year towards investing in the people of Uganda through health, education, social protection, and water and sanitation.

17519 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 12 JNUE 2025 Agro-Industrialisation Madam Speaker, the interventions in agro- industrialisation this financial year and next financial year have prioritised research, an increase in productivity, commercialisation, and value addition in agriculture. Madam Speaker, some of the key achievements in this financial year include: 1. Research and genetic development of selected value chains. The National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Databank has introduced superior animal genetic resources for breeding, multiplication and distribution to farming households under PDM. NARO has completed the manufacturing facility for anti-tick vaccines at Nakyesasa in Wakiso District with the capacity to produce over 20 million doses of the anti-tick vaccine per year. NARO has also developed agricultural technologies that increase productivity such as water-saving cultivation technology, drought-resistant varieties, and integrated pest, disease and weed control technologies, among others. Research in coffee by NaCORI has contributed to increased national coffee production, productivity and export earnings. 2. Increasing agricultural production and productivity. The capacity of water for irrigation has increased to 54.76 million cubic metres. This is on account of Government investment in small and large irrigation systems, including solar-powered irrigation. In particular, seven large-scale irrigation schemes have been completed. These include Ngenge in Kween District; Rwengaaju in Kabarole; Tochi in Oyam; Mubuku II in Kasese; Olweny in Lira; Doho II in Butaleja; and Wadelai in Pakwach. Another three irrigation schemes are currently under construction. These are: Acomai in Bukedea District; Atari in Kween/ Bulambuli Districts; and Namatala, covering Budaka, Mbale and Butaleja Districts. Madam Speaker, another 145 solar-powered irrigation and water supply schemes have been completed across the country. In addition, 157 solar-powered irrigation and water supply schemes are under construction. Furthermore, 4,300 micro- scale irrigation facilities were constructed in 135 districts across the country and have benefitted smallholder farmers of less than 2.5 acres. Madam Speaker, in addition, the Government completed Usake Dam in Kaabong, and Ongunga Dam in Katakwi for livestock, irrigation and fish farming. In addition, 5,251 small- and medium- scale irrigation schemes were established in 135 districts. Madam Speaker, the Government established five zonal agricultural mechanisation centres in Namalere, Buwama, Bungokho, Agwata and Sanga to support equipment access and tractor hire services; procured and distributed 260 assorted four-wheeled tractors and implements to farmer groups in 60 districts countrywide, 750 power tillers (single-axle tractors and implements), and two pieces of dredging equipment for water hyacinth and weed control; and trained 2,150 youth and women as operators, artisans and mechanics for tractors and implements. Beginning this financial year, the Government introduced the large-scale commercial farmer interest-free credit facility of Shs 175 billion. This facility will help to increase production and productivity for improved food security and exports. The loan facility can be accessed through Government-owned banks, namely Post Bank, Housing Finance Bank, and Pride Bank Limited. 3. Agricultural value addition and marketing. NARO completed setting up an Aflasafe facility at Namulonge with capacity to eliminate aflatoxin contamination in grains. The facility has capacity to clean five tons of produce per hour. This will save the country an estimated $38 million per year, which is lost in export rejections due to aflatoxins and, most importantly, save the lives of Ugandans. Madam Speaker, to add value to agricultural produce, the Government constructed 11 agro- processing and storage facilities to increase opportunities for value-addition and access to high value markets. These include Rwimi Rice Processing Facility in Bunyangabu; Kasina Maize

17520 BUDGET SPEECH Processing Facility in Kyenjojo; Kigoyera Maize Processing Facility in Kyenjojo; Itojo Maize And Rice Processing Facility in Ntoroko; Nombe Coffee Processing Facility in Ntoroko; Apala Oil Seed Processing Facility in Alebtong; Gatyanga Coffee Processing Facility in Bunyangabu; Ocorimongin Rice Processing Facility in Katakwi; Kajamaka Rice Processing Facility in Kumi; Kikwata Coffee Processing Facility in Nakaseke; and Kiwoko Maize Processing Facility also in Nakaseke. Madam Speaker, the Government is strengthening partnership with the private sector through Uganda Development Corporation (UDC) to support local value-addition and manufacturing in a wide range of agricultural value chains. These investments include Soroti Fruit Factory, Budadiri Arabica coffee, Mabale Growers Tea Factory, Kayonza Growers Tea Factory, Bukona Agro Processors, Atiak Sugar Factory, and Yumbe Fruit Factory. Madam Speaker, as part of the effort to increase access of Uganda’s products to international markets, we dispatched the inaugural exports of coffee and milk to Serbia and Algeria, respectively. The milk exports to Algeria have potential to fetch Uganda export earnings worth $500 million. Madam Speaker, I have allocated a total of Shs 1.86 trillion next financial year towards deepening agro-industrialisation. These funds will support investments in: 1. Agricultural research; 2. Agricultural inputs, including fertilisers; 3. Water for irrigation; 4. Extension services; 5. Agro-processing and value addition; 6. Post-harvest handling and storage facilities; and 7. Inspection, surveillance, certification, enforcement of quality standards and market access. Tourism Development Madam Speaker, Uganda’s tourism sector continued to recover with tourist arrivals increasing by 7.7 per cent to 1.37 million in 2024, from 1.27 million in 2023. Similarly, tourism earnings grew by 26 per cent to $1.28 billion in 2024, up from $1.02 billion in 2023. Madam Speaker, the following achievements were registered: 1. Promoted and marketed Uganda through international “ Explore Uganda” promotional campaigns in high-value market segments in USA, Canada and the United Kingdom. As a result, the year-on-year growth of interest in Uganda by tourists is 33 per cent for the United Kingdom, 19 per cent for Canada and five per cent for the USA. Additionally, through the theme “ Uniquely Ours”, we have promoted domestic tourism. As a result, domestic tourism in national parks increased by 15.7 per cent in 2024, reaching 244,843 visitors. 2. Continued to innovate and modernise tourism products to make them more competitive. This involved maintenance of 1,300 kilometres of trail tracks and roads in tourism protected areas; increasing the cumulative coverage of electric fencing to 177 kilometres in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls national parks; continued construction of the pier and related infrastructure at the Source of the Nile; continuing to upgrade the Uganda Museum and Namugongo Martyrs’ Shrines; construction of 3,521 meters of climbing ladders and boardwalks on the Rwenzori Mountains to make hiking safer and fun; completion and commissioning of Kikorongo Equator Monument in Kasese; and the construction works of Karamoja Museum, which is nearing completion. 3. The Government invested in a world-class convention facility in Munyonyo. This has promoted Uganda as one of the regional destinations for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). Consequently, Uganda now ranks seventh in Africa in MICE tourism.

17524 BUDGET SPEECH iv. The government is revamping the road and drainage infrastructure within the entire Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA), to the extent that the entire city is now a construction site. Banange bebale. A total of Shs 1.4 trillion has been dedicated to improving roads and drainage within GKMA. To deal with traffic congestion arising out of the gridlock generated by roundabouts, all major junctions are being improved and signalled with traffic lights. The Kampala Flyover and Road Upgrading Project has been completed. v. Construction of 10 bridges is ongoing at an average of 74.7 per cent progress. Madam Speaker, next financial year, the Government has significantly increased the budget for road infrastructure development. I have allocated an additional Shs 790 billion, bringing the total budget for roads to Shs 4.28 trillion. The following will be prioritised next financial year: 1. Start construction and complete ongoing works for road projects as highlighted by His Excellency the President in his State-of- the-Nation Address. In addition, the roads which had been left out to be prioritised are: Puranga-Acholibur (65 kilometres); Kampala- Gayaza-Kalagi (33 kilometres); Lugazi- Buikwe-Kiyindi (28 kilometres); Kabwohe- Bwizibwera-Nyakambu-Nsika-Nyakabirizi (92.2 kilometres); Kisubi-Nakawuka-Natete- Kasanje-Mpigi-Mawugulu-Nanziga-Maya- Buwaya (71 kilometres); Busega-Mpigi (10 kilometres); Najjanankumbi-Busabala (11 kilometres); Lusalira-Nkonge-Lumegere- Sembabule (97 kilometres); Karugutu-Ntoroko (50 kilometres); Kabale-Lake Bunyonyi (15.1 kilometres), Kisoro-Nkuringo-Lubugiri-Muko (70 kilometres); Laropi-Moyo-Afoji (39 kilometres), including a bridge at Laropi, Koboko-Yumbe-Moyo (105 kilometres); Namagumba-Budadiri-Nalugugu (33 kilometres); Tororo-Busia (25 kilometres); Katuna-Muko-Kamuganguzi (104 kilometres); Moroto-Lokitanyala (42 kilometres); Hamurwa-Kerere-Kanungu (47 kilometres); Lyantonde-Kashagama-Nyabitanga-Ntusi road (57.7 kilometres); Isingiro-Rugaaga- Mutukula-Ngarama-Kashumba-Kasese on the border with Tanzania (164 kilometres) – I hope my friends who were talking to me yesterday, I have satisfied you. Masindi Bridge; and Karuma Bridge. 2. Start construction and complete ongoing works for bridges as highlighted by His Excellency the President in his State-of- the-Nation Address. 3. Commence implementation of the Kampala- Jinja Expressway through a Public-Private Partnership framework. 4. Prioritise maintenance of the core national road transport network and DUCAR. Railway Transport Madam Speaker, in November 2024, His Excellency the President launched construction of the 272-kilometre Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Malaba to Kampala. The SGR is a strategic investment for our country. It will cut cargo transport cost by half from the current $120 per ton, and reduce transit time from Mombasa to Kampala from seven days to one day, turning Uganda into a land-linked country as opposed to being landlocked. The initial works for the construction of the SGR have started. Madam Speaker, Government has completed the refurbishment and commissioning of the Mukono-Kampala Metre Gauge Railway line. In addition, rehabilitation of the 375 kilometres of the Tororo to Gulu Metre Gauge Railway will be completed by February 2026. Madam Speaker, next financial year, priority interventions will include completing the rehabilitation of the Tororo-Gulu Metre Gauge Railway line; refurbishment of the Mukono-Jinja Metre Gauge Railway line; and construction of the Standard Gauge Railway from Kampala to Malaba.

17526 BUDGET SPEECH ii) Enhance access to electricity through implementation of the $638 million Electricity Access Scale-up Project covering grid expansion, connectivity and clean energy options for one million new electricity connections. Further, the Government will continue investing in priority transmission lines and sub-stations, particularly to the industrial parks, growth centres and other strategic manufacturing facilities like the clinker factory in Moroto, Karamoja; the fertiliser factory in Kampirigisa, Mpigi; Simba Cement Factory in Mbarara, Western Uganda; Dei BioPharma in Matugga, Wakiso District; and; the Coffee Factory in Ntungamo, among others. iii) Commence development of new power generation plants to meet the growing demand. These include new hydropower plants at Ayago and Oriang in Nwoya District, and Kiba in Oyam District, the development of nuclear power in Buyende District, and the rehabilitation of Kiira- Nalubaale Power Plant. Industrial Development and Manufacturing Madam Speaker, with regard to industrial development and manufacturing, the following achievements have been registered: i) The Government has operationalised eight industrial parks, which include Namanve, Luzira, Bweyogerere, Mbale, Soroti, Kasese, Mbarara, and Jinja industrial parks. We have also supported the development of three privately-owned industrial parks, which are Liao Shen Kapeeka in Nakaseke District, MMP in Buikwe District, and Tian Tang in Mukono. ii) To-date, a total of 628 companies/industries have been allocated land within the various industrial parks, 47 per cent of which are in manufacturing. Out of all the companies allocated land, 307 are fully operational, 195 are undertaking construction, and 122 have commenced preparatory activities. The parks have attracted a total capital investment of $4.5 billion and created 181,403 jobs. iii) Madam Speaker, several industrial parks have become centres of innovation, hosting firms that have introduced new technologies and products, such as: a single HIV pill (Quality Chemicals Ltd); GIS transformers (Orion Electricals); plastic-to-fabric recycling (Fei Long Investment Ltd); locally manufactured electric vehicles (Kiira Motors); the first powder-free surgical gloves (East African Medical Vitals); and import substitution products like fridges, transformers, toiletries, textiles, ceramics, televisions, and blankets. iv) The government has supported industrialisation by investing in strategic manufacturing facilities through Uganda Development Corporation with a total investment of Shs 1.2 trillion. Madam Speaker, next financial year, I have provided Shs 308.9 billion to further support infrastructure development in industrial parks, including roads, waste management, drainage, and utilities; and Shs 187 billion for capitalisation of Uganda Development Corporation (UDC). Security, Good Governance, and Rule of Law Madam Speaker, security, good governance and the rule of law are the foundation for socio- economic transformation. Everybody knows that. During this financial year, the following achievements were registered: i) Strengthened and modernised the security infrastructure to protect Ugandans, investors and our visitors from any security threats. We have invested in security apparatus and more sophisticated intelligence network and border control mechanisms. ii) Provided adequate funds to security institutions, including the Military, Police, Prisons, and intelligence agencies for operations, and improving the capacity and welfare of men and women in uniform. iii) Promoted regional and international relations, including playing a strategic role in peace processes in Somalia, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Equatorial Guinea;

17499 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 5 JUNE 2025 schools under the Uganda Inter-Governmental Fiscal Transfers (UgIFT) programme, bringing the cumulative total to 161 seed schools, out of the 259 planned. The majority of the remaining schools are progressing well and are on schedule for completion by June, 2025. The total number of Government-aided primary schools in the country is now 12,550. People normally talk of parishes which do not have Government-aided primary schools. But how many parishes are there in Uganda? It is because some of the parishes have got more than one primary school. Otherwise, 12,000 could have covered every parish because remember, the villages are 72,000 and they are normally about five or 10 villages in a parish. The primary schools, supported by the Government, are now quite many but some of the parishes may have more than one. The total number of Government-aided secondary schools is 1,416. The technical and vocational schools are 189 and Government degree-awarding universities are 12. That is the infrastructure of education in the country now. Clean water and sanitation The proper management of our water and environmental resources is a major contributing factor to public health, agricultural productivity and climate change adaptation. The National Population and Housing Census Report of 2024 showed that at least eight in 10 households now have access to improved water sources, that is, piped water, protected springs, etc. In 1986, only 10 per cent – that is one out of 10 households – had access to a clean and safe water source. Today, 81.1 per cent of the households in Uganda are in the radius of one kilometre from a safe water source. This is on account of the Government’s prioritisation of the construction of piped water systems in both rural and urban areas. Government has constructed a number of solar- powered piped water systems in the districts of Agago, Alebtong, Kayunga, Mityana, Pader, etc. There are ongoing construction works in other districts like Buhweju – for Bisya water supply system; Kasese – for Nyamugasani gravity flow scheme; Ala-Ora water supply system to serve the districts of Terego, Madi- Okollo and Nebbi, among others. Additionally, through the District Water and Sanitation Conditional Grant, the local governments have been able to boost access to improved water sources across the country. The local governments have constructed a total of 2,564 taps, serving 452,000 persons; drilled 709 deep boreholes, serving 212,000 persons and 128 protected springs, serving 43,000 persons. They have also constructed 109 rainwater harvesting tanks, serving 654 persons and 79 production wells. A total of 1,333 boreholes and 28 piped water systems have been rehabilitated across the country, thus restoring service to 417,000 persons. Regional integration The political balkanisation of Africa created small states, many of which have small populations. Uganda, with 46 million people, is one of the bigger states. The solution to this problem is regional integration. The whole of Africa has got a very high population of 1.4 billion people but this population is broken up into small units. Small populations mean small markets. The problem is compounded by a low purchasing power because of low incomes. So you have got small populations with low incomes. How will they support business? There are also problems in the regional market such as lack of roads and lack of communication to enable us to fully exploit the regional market. That is why, for instance, Uganda has undertaken the construction of the Mpondwe to Beni highway to ease connectivity between Congo and Uganda. If we mobilise the whole of Africa to remove all trade barriers, we shall no longer worry about being shut out of markets in Europe or the USA. In the Budget speech, I will speak more about this issue of integration. I think for now, let me finish so that people can survive and go home.

Honourable colleagues, here, we trust each other. I know the Attorney-General is a very obedient Muganda; so I do not want it to look like he has abandoned his people. Again, Toro Kingdom also brought me the same. Fortunately, we, the Bakiga, have nothing to claim. Let us get a way of communicating. We have channels of communication; let us not explode here. Honourable colleagues, I am guiding you - (Hon. Katusabe rose_) I know even in Kasese, the Bakonjo are demanding, and the Attorney- General is looking into this matter. Remember, we stood over item four because we wanted the Government to go and reconcile their position. Today, I consulted with the Attorney-General and the Ministry of Works and Transport, and they have not yet reconciled their position. Therefore, we want to give them a chance since it is a government Bill and there were differing positions from the two ministries. Therefore, Attorney-General, I will give you time to reconcile those positions so that in about two weeks, we can handle this Bill and have it sorted. Next item? MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION OF PARLIAMENT TO AUTHORISE REALLOCATION OF BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2024/2025 AND REVISION OF WORK PLANS FOR INSTITUTIONS AFFECTED UNDER RATIONALISATION OF GOVERNMENT AGENCIES AND PUBLIC EXPENDITURES (RAPEX) REFORM UNDER THE BATCH THREE

17124 BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FY 2025/2026 [Mr Awany] cargo has on the country’s national roads, and consequently recommends that the ministry be allocated additional funding to the tune of Shs 4 billion to enable it to complete the first phase of the project. The committee also urges the Government of Uganda to always honour its commitment to counterpart funding. Rural Bridges Infrastructure Development The committee was informed that the ministry is implementing a Rural Bridges Infrastructure Development project intending to enhance rural connectivity and access to essential services, focusing on trail bridges, for safe passage in areas where traditional bridges were lacking. The committee was further informed that in the Financial Year 2024/25, the ministry had planned to carry out various bridge constructions in the districts of Bundibugyo, that is, Nyahuka-Mirambi Bridge, Bulambuli-/ Bukedea-Taja Bridge, Pallisa-Aleles Bridge, Kasese-Karujumba Bridge, Sironko- Bujibundi-Buna-Dasa Bridge-

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for this opportunity. I would like to seek clarification on the issue regarding delay in payments to the contractors. Time and again, this House appropriates some money, including giving some supplementary budgets. I wonder why the issue of delay in paying contractors arises. Secondly, it is as if some contractors are given more contracts than their capacity. In my area, I have Modest Company Limited. It was contracted in the year 2019 to date. It is as if these contractors have multiple contracts in Bunyangabu, Kasese, and Kabarole etc. It is the reason there are many stranded projects. In conclusion, in my constituency, we have two power plants; one on River Ndugutu and another one on River Nsongya. We have a power outage. We have a challenge that out of 14 administrative units in my constituency, only four are connected to power. I would like to seek clarification why, even when we are producing power, the 10 administrative units are not yet connected. I thank you.

16913 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 10 APRIL 2025 In those districts – for example, instead of travelling to Tororo, we could think about a cooperative to serve people in that community. I hope that when the minister is presenting the other report, the information will be given to members. The other question on jua kali was from Hon. Aogon, about Kumi, but it is a national program. It might not reach everywhere but it is a very good initiative. Those who have benefited – I think Hon. Linda said it is a good programme. How do you get information? Let us not wait for information here. When you pass these things, follow up with us to see whether we are implementing them in the way you gave us money, and see how we run it. Otherwise, this is a very good program because it supports the young people who are out of school, like these young girls who, unfortunately, get pregnant before they are 18 years old. They cannot get the youth fund because when they go there, they are told “No, you are now a mother” and when they come to the women fund, they are equally told “No, you are not yet 18 years”. They are in the middle there. So, we have that category of people who do not have a sense of belonging, which is a critical issue. I would like to say something about the issue of street children. Recently, there has been a growth in street children. This time, they are organised and are becoming gangs. One of my friends from Soroti talked about it. In Soroti, they call them “ owok owok ”. These children can even undress you, get your bag and pour out everything. When you have organised a party, they come and carry away all the food. It is going to be a very critical thing in society. The reason we are asking for money is to see how we can build capacity for the parents, children and the community before we talk about enforcement. So, the ministry needs this money to begin building confidence in the community. Many parents have become - I will not call it carelessness but they are not responsible for their young people, and because they are dropouts, they have been left on their own. The others were proposals, which we are going to take on as a ministry but I think I need to see what other things were brought in. Hon. Kwizera, I think your suggestion was more on what we can generally support and see how we can work on them. I would like to give Hon. Atkins hope that we are working. We are not a white elephant; we might not have reached Kasese, but we will. The money for the old persons is already being disbursed. Sometimes they give them Shs 75,000 per quarter instead of Shs 25,000. but I would like to remind the House that you passed the Parish Development Model (PDM) money, which has percentages. Can we follow up and know whether the percentages are working? Ten per cent is for the old people. Go back to your parish and know whether the Shs 10 million has been given to 10 old people, Shs 10 million to 10 disabled people, and Shs 30 million must be given to the women at the parish level. This is again our responsibility, as members of Parliament, to do the tracking. Where is the money? We have just left this money to go and I hope my brother, Hon. Magyezi, will agree with me - recently, I was with him and he asked: “How many disabled have received?” For me, they have only given 1 per cent. So, I am still asking about my 9 per cent because I am both a minister and a Member of Parliament. When you look at the records and you see only 1 per cent, you wonder about where the other money is, yet it is over. So, Hon. Okot, let us follow up on what the wazees are supposed to receive. What I am reporting here is that they have gone beyond theirs because according to the report from the Local Government, they are at

16946 APPROVAL OF BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR FY 2025/2026 through the Democratic Republic of Congo or Kasese, Uganda, will know where they are. The other one was on the harmonisation of the education system. I entirely agree that in the interest of realising the community we envision, we must have an education system that expresses the same values across borders. We cannot have one area with a different education system from another. Later on, it will impact the freedom of workers to move, who will qualify, who will work where, how to be assessed, how to join the institutions of learning, and all those kinds of things. Therefore, I agree that we must do that. Some consultations are already ongoing, and I am sure the education ministry will be able to discuss them. Then lastly - not lastly. (Laughter) Lastly, let me just read to you what my technical people are telling me. (Laughter)

16977 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 10 APRIL 2025 I will not go into the solid details of the methodology, the basics, and the mandates. They are very clear cut. You will read them. I am sure they have uploaded them on your iPads. Under Vote 001, Office of the President, we have the following observations - That is on page 6. We observe that there is inadequate office accommodation. The committee recommends that an additional Shs 2.8 billion be made available to Vote 001, annually, to enable the Office of the President to construct at least five offices each financial year, so as to mitigate the challenge of office space for Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) in the medium-term. You realise that out of 146 offices of RDCs, only 16 have been constructed, and that is where we have accommodation. The rest are renting. Under the same Vote 001, there is a big issue of Cabinet support and policy development, where we observed a big gap that needs at least, as a recommendation, Shs 1.976 billion to be provided to this vote, to facilitate interventions of Cabinet support and policy development. What they do, you can read above. Another key result area is the development and maintenance of National Leadership Institute (NALI), Kyankwanzi, where all of you have been. It has been under constant refurbishment and improvement to make life easy there for whoever wants to make use of it. They, however, have a shortage or big gaps. They had a budget of Shs 10 billion, and only Shs 2 billion was made available. We, therefore, recommended that an additional Shs 7.5 billion be allocated to vote 001 to facilitate the development of NALI, that is, Kyankwanzi. Under key issue number 274, that is facilitation for Resident District Commissioners, the offices - I have already talked about this. It is almost the same. Office and accommodation are the same. One is for office and one is for residence. We recommend that Shs 12.424 billion be provided for the facilitation of RDCs and that the size and nature of the districts – I am sorry. Can I take you back right, Mr Speaker? I want to go a little bit into greater detail on this one. I am talking about facilitation for the Resident District Commissioners. The committee observes that uniform facilitation to RDCs without consideration of the size and the nature of the districts, among other factors, does not ensure equality and allocation. Such districts include Wakiso - you all know Kasese, Isingiro, Ntungamo, Tororo, Sironko, and a few others. The committee is of the strongest view that providing facilitation to RDCs while considering the size of districts served, the distances covered from Kampala, and those hard-to-reach areas, should improve on their roles and therefore their take-home as far as fuel and other related facilitations are concerned. The committee recommends that at least Shs 12.424 billion be provided to facilitate RDCs and that the size and nature of the district be among the factors considered for allocation of this facilitation. Another issue of concern was support for the Afro-Arab Youth Council headquarters construction. The Afro-Arab Youth Council was formed by the youth of the African and Arab world –

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would like to correct something. When he signed, he told me to take the document to the office of the Clerk and I did that. Let me go straight to the areas of dissent. In accordance with Rule 205 of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament of Uganda, the minority members of the committee dissent from the opinion of the majority committee, on the following grounds; 1. Failure to lay on Table the Ministerial Policy Statement of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Mr Speaker, pursuant to Rule 146 of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament, each minister responsible for a Vote, ministry or head responsible for a Vote shall by the 15 th day of March submit to Parliament a policy statement for the preceding financial year for the ministry or Vote. To that fact, Vote 167 and Vote 110 – Science, Technology and Innovation and Uganda Industrial Research Institute, respectively – failed to lay on Table their Ministerial Policy Statements for the Financial Year 2025/2026. They acknowledged this before the committee, that they were unable to table their Ministerial Policy Statements on time. 2. Concerns regarding the proposed increase in the facilitation budget for RDCs in six districts – as named in the observation of the majority report The majority report, on page 8, recommended that Shs 12.424 billion be provided for facilitation of Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) and that the size and nature of each district be among the key factors considered. The districts are; Kasese, Isingiro, Ntungamo, Wakiso, Tororo and Sironko. Based on the recommendation, each Resident District Commissioner is expected to receive Shs 2.071 billion, annually. This is twice the budget of the district road fund. Each RDC is supposed to receive that – if you compute – annually, which translates to Shs 172 million per month. To put this into perspective, this is an amount equivalent to the annual roads maintenance budget for a typical township. A case in point is that Wakiso District currently has five Deputy RDCs, each assigned to oversee a specific area. Entebbe has a Deputy RDC, Kira has a Deputy RDC, Kasangati has a Deputy RDC, Makindye has a Deputy RDC, Makindye-Ssabagabo has a Deputy RDC and Nansana Municipality also has a Deputy RDC. In addition to these RDCs, there is an overall RDC for the district. Furthermore, the President recently appointed five Assistant RDCs in Wakiso, bringing the total number of appointees in the RDC’s office to 11 individuals. This level of staffing in a single district raises concern of overstaffing, especially at a time when the country faces numerous critical funding needs in essential sectors. The proposed allocations, if implemented without efficiency checks and accountability could divert substantial resources from priority areas such as health, education and infrastructure. What do we propose? We propose that additional funds should not be provided to facilitate the RDCs, based on the size and nature of the districts. In fact, the number of

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the committee for the comprehensive report. My comment is on HIV prevention. It needs funding because prevention is better than cure. HIV/AIDS is a silent killer; it is a chronic dis - ease. Chronic diseases are more dangerous than acute diseases. You would rather get a disease which comes with severe signs, conditions and symptoms that you can know how to handle. However, this is a condition that attacks peo - ple silently and the incidence rate keeps on in - creasing silently. You cannot know if someone is HIV positive or negative, so the way to go is to fund prevention and sensitisation so that at least we can get low new cases and save on the curative part. The less the incidence cases, the less expenditure on HIV/AIDS. The Rwenzori-Luwero Triangle is one of the dockets that have been underfunded for the last three quarters and yet this triangle partly takes the corridor that protects us from being invad - ed by rebels from Congo through Kasese and Bundibugyo. We need improved funding for this docket so that all the programming of this region can go on and we make sure we do not get rebels attacking us from Congo to this side. We have been getting peanuts in this Rwenzo - ri-Luwero Triangle – (Member timed out.)

Thank you, Mr Speaker and the committee chairperson for that very wonderful presentation. I will support the majority report. I wanted to see the accommodation of presidential pledges. The President has been to Kasese multiple times. Amazingly, every time he goes there, he has to give a pledge. A public university, an international airport, tourism roads, a revamp in our industries, water for production, safe and clean drinking water - a lot of those things amazingly. On 19 April 2019, I had the opportunity to host the President and took him to my community. There are some pledges that have been fulfilled and I want to appreciate Government for that. However, if I look at the graph and place it on a pie-chart, I would say probably that five per cent of those presidential directives or pledges have been enforced. Committee chairperson, I do not know whether it is late for us to accommodate some of these longstanding presidential pledges that the President has made to the Kasese community and I really believe, to other communities. For instance, we had COVID-19, Mr Speaker, you remember. The churches, at the Executive Order, had to shut down. Schools, supermarkets, stores; everything literally shut down. If a word of the President can shut down even churches, schools and mosques, why can’t we use the same word that comes from the President to have all of these presidential pledges that he has made to Kasese? That is the reason why we, as a community, will come back to this House with a countless list of presidential pledges we want funded and accommodated in this Budget. I really want to appreciate you for the opportunity. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would like to start from the issue regarding the RDCs. Honourable chairperson, you mentioned some districts including Kasese, Nsingiro, Tororo, Wakiso and others - about six of them but I urge you to have a national lens - Honourable Alex, I am talking to you but you are engaged elsewhere. (Laughter) Why didn’t you have a lens towards the northern part of Uganda? A case in point is a district that I represent; Oyam, which is very big and my RDCs are really suffering because of the big size of the district. Mr Speaker, the number of the RDCs that we have now is enough. For example, we have four who can traverse the entire district if they are fully facilitated. Secondly, I would like to add my voice to the Youth MP’s voice about the Afro-Arab Youth Conference, which our country is about to

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for the opportunity. My concern is also on the Shs 12.424 billion which has been allocated to only six districts. The report was very clear and it mentioned Wakiso, Kasese, Isingiro, Ntungamo, Tororo and Isingiro, meaning others have been left out. I therefore recommend that this Shs 12.424 billion be reallocated to other –

It says, the com - mittee was informed that the Office of the Pres - ident requires Shs 34.604 billion to provide facilitation to the RDCs, but only Shs 24.18 billion is provided for in this financial year, re - sulting in a funding gap of Uganda Shs 10.424 billion. The committee noted that the inadequate fa - cilitation - I can jump that, but it says, “The committee further noted that the uniform facil - itation to the RDCs without consideration of the size and the nature of the districts, among other factors, even beyond size, does not en - sure equality in allocation. Such districts in - clude; Wakiso, Kasese, Isingiro, Tororo, and Sironko.” This is page 8. How do you now say that the money they are asking for is only for these districts? Oh, okay - If that is the interpretation, Hon. Balimwezo has understood it but for the record - I know you are someone who is usually - you do not put too much politics in things. Honourable, this is plain, why don’t you -

Mr Speaker, I appreciate your leadership and guidance. Now that the minister is in the House, I think that the people of Kasese and the international traders owe it to him.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I wish to add my voice to thank the chairperson, but I think the Committee on Local Government needs to get out of this House and move upcountry to know which administrative units are bigger than others. We cannot continue relying on Members of Parliament or local governments coming over – we want to create this. There are some big districts, I can tell you – when you look at the statistics now – like Tororo, Kasese, Ntungamo and Isingiro; there are even more. When you get Shs 1 billion, give it to one of these young districts that have about four or eight subcounties, you will find that there is one which has about 38 or 40 parishes like in Tororo and many others.

16880 BUDGET ESTIMATES FOR THE FY 2025/2026 shame to us as a nation and its leaders. Two days ago, two gentlemen came to my office. They have their arrears under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), and their outcry was so painful. The children have dropped out of school - those who are just finalising their doctorate course, one has cancer with no treatment because of the situation, and all their properties have been taken by the banks. These are citizens of this country, and they worked when the Government advertised. If these activities were budgeted for, where did this money go? As a chairperson of a committee, I know that all Government activities are budgeted for, but I have realised one problem, which is to do with the way releases are made. We budget like this, but finance does not release money, or they release it halfway, and make these ministries and agencies commit these contractors to do their work. I would like to give one reference. Right now, under the Dairy Department, there is already construction going on in Mbale for a milk factory to support the eastern region. It is in its first phase. The contractor has already been committed, but in this current budget, there is nothing. That contractor will sue the Government. In Kasese, there is a construction of a laboratory for coffee. It is now halfway done, but in this current budget, there is nothing. This is how we are making the Government lose a lot of funds – (Interjection) - I will give you space to provide information. The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development should be serious. We are blaming MDAs for nothing. Finance should prioritise its releases. Ongoing projects should be funded in time so that we meet the deadline and even for our domestic - we are rushing to clear other arrears, but we are crippling our citizens yet this money will come back to our economy. These people and their children will be useless in the future, crying out our names. They are dying, crying with our names as Government. We have to take this as a serious matter, and we want the minister for finance to commit himself and also prioritise these allocations of Shs 13.8 trillion for arrears, because you will find that those who are able are the ones going to be paid. Those who are badly off are left out - Information is allowed . (Hon. Balimwezo rose_)

Mr Speaker. I take this opportunity, first of all, to thank you, for raising the concerns on the flooding in Kampala. Regarding the issue that you raised on the work that we have been handling, we were majorly handling the Lugogo flooding and the report is ready. When you avail us time, we shall table it. Mr Speaker, yesterday’s rain was the first or second rain we received, but we can see the extent of the damage. I would like to assure you that for the little time I have been on that committee, almost 60 per cent of the work you see going around in Kampala has no approved plans. Whoever has interested themselves, knows that. Two, the ones that we have attempted to look at are not even supervised by competent engineers. Now it is Kampala, but there is also Kasese, Bududa and many other areas coming up. You can be sure that in this season, we shall be discussing disaster daily. Therefore, it is now very important that the Minister of Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees comes to this House with a plan on how prepared we are for these disasters. Yesterday was just a sample; we are headed for more trouble. Mr Speaker, it is very important that you give timelines to the Prime Minister’s office to prepare the country on what they project and what they are prepared to do, so that we are not caught unprepared because we are aware of what is likely to happen. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I am now back. I asked to raise this procedural issue. When you came into office, constitutionally, all of us, as a membership, are obligated to support you. We support you and we will continue to support you. My procedural issue is the multiple directives that you have given to the ministers. I want to bring to the attention of this House, and by extension, the Executive, three fundamental things: First, the state of our road network. It is extremely appalling. When you are going to Kasese, through the Mubende Road, it is impassable. You may try to use the Mbarara Road but it is also impassable. I do not know whether we are waiting for a situation where your Members will come here and ask for helicopters to fly them to their communities. Is that what we are waiting for? I do not want to believe that because we are here as people’s representatives. If you give me a helicopter —

Much appreciated, Madam Speaker, but the reason why I am bringing that up is because I have seen the Minister of Finance. Madam Speaker, you are familiar that on the 7 th of December, the President of this nation was in Kasese, commissioning the Kikorongo –

Thank you, Mr Speaker. The Rt Hon. Prime Minister, my matter is also about the wildlife attacks in Rukungiri District. Since the beginning of this month, between the 2nd and 5th of March, a herd of elephants has been coming every day, attacking gardens, coffee plantations, banana plantations, animals, cows, and goats. People are not sleeping. I have heard you talk about the districts of Kitugum and northern Uganda that you have called address, but Rukungiri is nowhere. We have Queen Elizabeth National Park, where these elephants come from. The last time I talked to the minister of tourism, he was heading to Kanungu on the side of Bwindi while Rukungiri continues to be neglected. People need a quick response about this matter. You have also talked about the electric fence several times. Kanungu and Kasese have been fenced. Rukungiri is in the middle of these districts, but it has been left out. Can you give us-

16691 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 6 MARCH 2025 it in February 2021, the telephone number had been allocated to another person. Mr Speaker, this is a telephone card you buy with your money. This means, by default, you are the owner. However, the service provider decides to allocate that telephone number to a third party without notifying you. This means the consumer’s rights are being exploited in absolute disregard. This matter can only be resolved through a legal framework like this. Short of that, consumers will be exploited and their rights will be abused. Today, I looked for a friend I had not talked to for about a year. When I called the person, a different person from Kasese picked the phone call. I asked, “Is this Fred?” They replied, “No, I am not Fred”. Again, I asked, “When did you become the owner of this telephone number?” He said, “Six months ago”. That means there is a lot of confusion going on. Mr Speaker, if the telephone number is registered in the names of Feta with MTN and the same with Airtel, it becomes easy to track him if he has abused his rights. You will realise that the people who change telephone numbers and register new ones, left, right, center are actually criminals. They use, abuse and drop because they know next year, MTN will have allocated that number to another person. So, tracing criminality becomes a challenge. Mr Speaker, that is why I support the motion, and I know Hon. Joyce Bagala means well, unlike the other times when Hon. James Baba said other things. In this particular one, I know she means well. (Laughter) Thank you.

Honourable colleagues, I had kept quiet on this; but you talked about quality. If our tea is just used for mixing, how will we even negotiate, with a country to take our tea just mixing? We, who make this kasese waraji , you know, the money for buying my first trouser came from that kind of waragi . There is one we call “juure”, it is for mixing before you get the real waragi, which knocks you out. Those who produce that one from - and now upgraded, in Mitooma; we no longer produce the one you drink. We produce the one we call ‘science.’ This one is watery and not our level. You can see the quality. Oh, there is the Alcohol Bill here – Hon. Sarah Opendi. Anyhow, to emphasise the issue of quality, I have a friend who owns MacDowell Tea. They are the sole suppliers of tea to the royal family in Britain. He sells tea to the royal family and Heralds, from a small garden, but the money he makes - it is all about quality and history. The moment you produce quality; you are on the way to making history. There is even what they call white tea. People who know tea very well - because tea is mainly in the countries that were formerly British colonies - you find a small bag of tea costing US $1,000. Someone gave me a gift of tea, which I will not declare to the Inspector-General of Government, which was 80 years old, fermented in bamboo. However, when you look at the history and you see the cost of it - tea of $1,000 - what we are making is really annoying when country in the neighbourhood earns three times our price. This is not only about negotiating. You will only negotiate if you have good quality. If you do not have it - so, we should never underrate the issue of quality in any way possible. I was going to pick Hon. Kyooma. Then I pick Zombo. Colleagues who have already submitted on other matters, I am sorry. I am not giving you a chance on this.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. First of all, I wish our Muslim brothers and sisters a happy month of Ramadan. Number two, I join you, Madam Speaker, in congratulating the Deputy Speaker upon that coveted position. That position has brought out the real leadership in you. You are the Speaker. Somebody else would have said, “Okay, a position of chairperson? I want that too.” However, you have demonstrated leadership, and that is a challenge for everybody. This world is about bringing our heads together for a common good. Madam Speaker, I do not know whether it would not serve us well to aggregate these compensations that are scattered all over the country, Kasese inclusive. In 1996, the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) attacked Kasese Municipality and burned cars and houses, but people have never been compensated. In the same Kasese District, in Kitholhu Subcounty, 10 LCI leaders were murdered in cold blood, and their internal organs thrown in their faces for what crime; because they were – I would rather - because compensations are all over the country, including Teso - can we have these aggregated, consolidated, and brought here, so that we can find the money for these people? The reason - yesterday, you directed the Attorney-General to come and give us a full account of what exactly happened with the National Unity Platform (NUP) Office raid, the commanders involved in the raid, who sanctioned it, and why the raid would surely occur without the owners of the premises and without a court order. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

16536 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME I have personally written letters to UNRA, Ministry of Works and Transport, Office of the Prime Minister, and the President’s Office, but no valid attention has been paid to my pleas. His prayer is a request that we take interest in this matter and provide an update. Madam Speaker, Bwizibwera-Nsiika- Nyakashaka-Nyakabirizi Road with a spur to Kabwohe, is in the National Development Plan (NDP) III and in the NRM Manifesto of 2021- 2026. The road is being implemented in phases. Even yesterday, the President, while in Bushenyi, talked about the same road and that the road will be implemented in phases; (i) A civil commercial contract for the upgrade of Bwizibwera-Nyakambu-Nsiika with a spur to Kabwohe road was signed in March 2023 and awaits confirmation of financing before physical works can commence. (ii) A detailed design for the upgrade of Nsiika- Nyakashaka-Nyakabirizi Road (48.3km) is currently ongoing and is expected to be completed by May 2025. Thereafter, procurement of civil works contractors will commence. Madam Speaker, upgrading of Nsiika-Ibanda- Kabujogera-Mashooro-Rwenjaza-Kyambura has been considered in National Development Plan IV (NDP IV) and will be prioritised subject to availability of resources. Madam Speaker, I want to thank you on this note because the Members do not give detailed information. That is why I am on question number eight. Hon. Shartsi Musherure, MP, Mawogola County North: Following the dissolution of both the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), and the Uganda Road Fund as part of the rationalisation process, her prayer was: could the Office of the Prime Minister clarify how people of Mawogola North, Ssembabule will ensure the completion of the promised Akagari Bridge, which connects Gomba to Ssembabule District? I wonder how they will do it. Madam Speaker, my response is that the Akagari Bridge on River Katonga is on a district road. Following the request from the area Members of Parliament, the former Uganda National Roads Authority intervened and installed the culverts that made the location motorable. The district will be advised to complete the outstanding works using the Shs 1 billion. Hon. Michael Timuzigu Kamugisha MP, Kajara County, Ntungamo asked that all counties in Uganda be turned into districts except 19, which are in the districts of Ntungamo, Isingiro, Kasese and Tororo. These districts are treated like former counties in provision of all services and staff. Each has one road maintenance unit, one district hospital, gets the same share of Government-sponsored students in public universities, gets the same share of seed schools and construction of primary schools, to mention but a few. According to Hon. Timuzigu, these districts have, therefore, not been able to fairly benefit from the decentralisation policy and are slowly being left behind in development. For example, in Ntungamo, parents have to first build primary school classrooms up to window level for the district local government to come in and do the completion and this is against the Government policy of no-fees payment in Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools. Prayer: When is the Government going to complete the harmonisation of district sizes by giving the remaining 19 counties district status to start developing at the rate of other districts? Madam Speaker, my response is that the Ministry of Local Government issued a moratorium, suspending creation of any new local government units or alteration of boundaries in April 2021, under which we were still operating, until a new position is approved by the Government.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Last Thursday, when the Prime Minister was responding to national issues, Madam Speaker, you are aware that you had granted me permission to raise an issue about the Kikorongo-Mpondwe road. Madam Speaker, on 7 th December, the President went to Kasese -

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. In case there were difficulties in some districts for causes, which we should know, it is not correct to give a sweeping statement that where there are women members of Parliament in opposition who are not allowed. I want to give my testimony that I represented the Prime Minister in Kasese and the function was very colourful and the member of Parliament was present. There were NRMs, there were all parties represented, religious leaders, Bishops, RDCs, and it was one of the best celebrations I witnessed -

Thank you, Madam Speaker. First of all, I welcome you back to the family and to the House. Around September last year, I presented, on the Floor of Parliament, the issues that relate to Kasese as a community. Madam Speaker, as you -

All right. Madam Speaker, to let you know that your uncle, together with the leaders that hail from Kasese as a community, are assembling 18 points. His Majesty the King asked me to deliver his deepest gratitude to you when you ruled in September that the 18-point master plan be assembled by the leaders with the signatures and brought to your office for your endorsement and approval. [Hon. Macho rose_]

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. I will make a submission that is clustered under two categories. Category number one will look at the Kasese community where I come from. Mr Speaker, every financial year, this Government has got a song. The song is about Kasese Airstrip being elevated to an international airport. Another song, during our budgetary time, is reviving the railway line from Kasese up to the end. Then having a university, clean, safe drinking water and also water for production, reviving Kilembe Mines – that is, for copper, and cobalt in Kasese Town, chalk in Mohokya, and salt in Katwe, then the land disputes and the electric wire. Mr Speaker, we got what we call a masterplan. Gen. Saleh was kind enough to listen to the President’s assignment. He went to Kasese and spent six long months there. The leaders interacted with him. Every time we remind the President, he begins singling out each and every one of us. He reminds us that we are Members of Parliament who are in charge of appropriation. Mr Speaker, this is a budgetary season. I ask colleagues in this House; my honourable brothers and sisters that we, Kasese leaders, are going to bring this masterplan that has been endorsed by both the leadership of this House and the President to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to source for funding. This is why the people of Kasese sent me here. Mr Speaker, if I can pick one item; the issues of water are not restricted to Kasese people. It

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for the opportunity. I want to build on Hon. Mujungu’s submission. Earlier, Hon. Fox Odoi had talked of policy and Hon. Mujungu has brought it out – the 2009 policy. He has also raised the issue of cut-offs. In 1979, Mbarara was razed to the ground. Masaka, which is Masaka City now – (Interjections) - Mr Speaker, I beg for your protection. Masaka town was razed to the ground and so was Mbarara town. During the war of 1979, the Western Axis led by His Excellency, Gen. Yoweri Museveni, and then the Axis through Mutukula led by Gen. Oyite-Ojok - Saba Saba razed down those two towns. When you go to - because Kasese was not being talked about as people who suffered, the good thing is it has now been brought out very well by Hon. Mujungu. In 1979, West Nile suffered during the liberation. Then in 1980, during the general elections, West Nile was invaded by the Government forces, and the people were chased to Congo. All the MPs from the UPC political party came unopposed because there were no people to vote; the West Nile area had been razed down. Therefore, when we talk about cut-off points, let us go to Independence and then verify what level of damage was done in each area. Even in Kampala here, some of the buildings were flattened and the owners have not been talked about. I beg that the Attorney-General goes back - we have a cut-off point and then see who lost what during these various wars since Independence.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise on the valley system of “I am my sister’s keeper; I am my brother’s keeper.” Mr Speaker, for those that probably do not know the history of the people that live in Kasese as a community, our great-great fathers were born, migrated and came to Uganda. Naturally, we are, by extension and tradition, Congolese, because that was where our great- great parents came from. Now, under the valley system, “I am my sister’s keeper, I am my brother’s keeper,” now that we have an insecurity condition, and you have wisely guided, can I request you, Mr Speaker, that the fact that Kasese borders DRC, our intelligence - offensive, defensive - and military capabilities be scaled up? COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

15725 THE E L E V E N TH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY , 23 JANUARY 2025 Prayer: What steps has your office taken to fast-track the sustainable resolution of the border conflict between Obongi and Yumbe Districts, among other similar districts border conflicts in West Nile that have resulted in the loss of lives, property, and disruption of service delivery and livelihood of citizens in the affected communities? My response: Rt Hon. Speaker and honourable colleagues, the Government constituted a Task Force comprising of technical officers from the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development to study and resolve all border conflicts in local governments. The Ministry of Local Governments is in the process of mobilising resources to conduct a border survey and the opening exercise of all conflicting Local Governments including the boundary between Obongi and Yumbe District. Mr Speaker and honourable colleagues, this exercise is planned to be implemented by the end of this Quarter. 4. Hon. Kamuntu Moses (MP, Rubanda County West, Rubanda District). The Batwa group of people were evicted from their ancestral land in the forests in 1991 for wildlife conservation. Since then, they have suffered severe socio-economic challenges, including displacement, poverty, malnutrition, lack of access to education and healthcare. According to the 2022 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS), 40 per cent of the children suffer from malnutrition, and only 20 per cent of the population have access to healthcare services. The report indicates that 70 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line, while 60 per cent of the households experience chronic food insecurity and 17 per cent of the women are illiterate. These indicators reflect the urgent need for government intervention. Prayer: Can the Government update this House on when it will bring health facilities closer to Batwa to increase access to health care? My response: Mr Speaker, Uganda has a number of indigenous people (IP). For example, Batwa, Ik, and Benet, among others. The Batwa live in the districts of Kanungu, Kisoro, Ruban, and Kasese, along the forested border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Batwa population is approximately 6,700 as of 2022 according to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics. A study done in Kanungu District shows that the proportion of Batwa with geographic access to the nearest health facility by walking within 30 minutes is 44 per cent increasing to 90.9 per cent within 60 minutes (1 hour) and to 100 per cent within 120 minutes (2 hours). The most geographically accessible Batwa settlements are Buhoma, Byumba, Kitariro and Kahere. Using all modes of transport, the residents of the above four settlements could reach their nearest terraced facilities within less than 10 minutes. This accounted for only 41.7 per cent Batwa’s geographic access coverage. The residents of Batwa settlement of Rulangara, Bikuto, Kebiremu, Mukongoro and Kihembe could reach their nearest health facility within less than 60 minutes (one hour) in a scenario combining all modes of transport. The above findings are crucial for health managers, especially at the local level for planning healthcare outreach services and health promotion campaigns notably in Kanungu District and similar regions where populations live in hilly and inaccessible terrain. The table below shows the subcounties where Batwa are residents and health facilities where they can access services. As clearly shown in the tables above, these areas are well-serviced with health facilities.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise here to register and request the Government to intervene in the way Dr Kiiza Besigye is being treated in Luzira Maximum Prison. We have visited him, at least those of us who belong to the same side as him. We talked to him and took food. Now, that right has been taken away by the prison’s authority. When you visit him - last time I was there with Hon. Mwijukye and Hon. Kamara - they have now put a glass, so, he stands behind it, and there is a microphone. You cannot even be sure that you are speaking to him. We do not know why these conditions – because Dr Besigye is the most imprisoned person under this Government. This is the first time that he is being treated like this. Mr Speaker, what is worrying us even more is that when you deny people their choice of food - because food is also medicine. We have had colleagues who leave Luzira Prison, including Dr Besigye’s brother, and as soon as they leave, they die; Dr Kiggundu and others. We do not know whether it is deliberate that when Dr Besigye - if he ever leaves - will leave when his life has been really affected. More worrying, the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, announced that Dr Besigye will be hanged. Mr Speaker, I did not take the statements of Gen. Muhoozi seriously but now I do. Why? He said they will go and attack Kenya; they will be in Nairobi. I actually thought it was a joke. However, Dr Besigye was kidnapped from Nairobi. We had other colleagues - 36 of them - kidnapped from Kisumu. I do not need any further evidence that they actually attacked Nairobi and took over it long ago. The other day he called Gen. Elwelu a buffoon and I kept asking myself, did he ever do something buffoonery for Gen. Muhoozi to begin calling him a buffoon? For the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officers here, you must be very careful with what you do. I kept asking, what has he done? My memory took me to Kasese, where he commanded the attack on Lubiri . I said, is that what Gen. Muhoozi was referring to as buffoonery? I am using that as an illustration to say I take his statements - because our colleague needs protection. He said that his New Year’s resolution includes arresting Gen. Elwelu. I am happy Gen. Elwelu is here and has not yet been arrested. Mr Speaker, I am saying I take his statements - The other day he said he will arrest the Committee on Defence and Veteran Affairs. He said, “Those clowns cannot summon me,” and I saw them seated comfortably. The guy has refused to come. I now take his statements seriously. When he says he wants to hang Dr Kiiza Besigye in May - he said he has actually now shifted it. I do not know whether starving him COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Okay. The industrial courts, LDC interventions that contribute to justice service delivery, court-related forensic analysis interventions, LC courts, DPP interventions that contribute to justice service delivery are more directly related to the administration of justice programme. Therefore, the committee recommends that all the interventions currently under the governance and security programme that relate to the enhancement of equitable access to justice for social economic development and the strengthening of justice service delivery systems should be transferred to the administration of justice programme. It is an issue of alignment of the 18 programmes, as highlighted above. Regionally balanced development The committee observes that although commendable progress has been registered in reducing poverty, regional disparities have, however, remained and increased vulnerabilities across regions. The chairman had mentioned it, so, I will not read it. The committee recommends that the Government prioritises the development and implementation of regional development plans, including comprehensive regional physical plans, to ensure balanced economic growth, equitable service delivery, and equitable resource distribution. I would have asked for an investment map, but the committee did not allow. Promotion of games and sports The committee observes that the National Development Plan (NDP) IV provides for several interventions for promoting games and sports but does not provide interventions relating to physical exercises for health reasons, amateur sports for mass participation and professional sports for commercial benefit. In addition, the committee observes that the NDP IV high-impact projects focuses only on the establishment of four regional sports stadia and 14 district sports grounds in the traditional sub-regions of Uganda. These do include international and national stadia. Further, the committee observes that the desired high-level programme results by the year 2029- 2030 provide insufficient information in regard to niche sports rankings. This hinders the effective monitoring of the high-level program results. Therefore, the committee recommends two interventions. a. That the NDP IV is amended to incorporate interventions for physical exercises for health reasons, amateur sports for mass participation and professional sports for commercial benefit. b. NDP IV high-impact projects should be amended to include three international stadia, Namboole, Hoima, and Akii- Bua, 10 KCCA artificial surface grounds (Rubaga, Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa and Central Divisions) and 15 national stadia (Arua, Moroto, Soroti, Mbale, Tororo, Iganga, Jinja, Lugazi, Luwero, Masaka, Mbarara, Ntungamo, Kabale, Kasese and Fort Portal. Railway master plan The committee observed that the NDP IV mentions that in order to lower the cost of doing business, the focus will be on improving the transport infrastructure. However, the NDP IV is silent on the need to develop a railway

Thank you, Mr Speaker. For over three years, we have had people in Kasese, in Muhokya, who are living in a camp as a result of the disasters. We want to thank the Government for procuring land for these people. However, Rt Hon. Prime Minister, you have been giving directives. May I plead with you to also give a directive for this land to be given to these people who have lived in a camp for the last three years? Thank you.

15323 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 27 NOVEMBER 2024 iii) that it investigates the reasons for delay in handing over the Kilembe Mines site. The terms of reference of the committee In determining the petition, the committee guided itself by the following terms of reference: a) To determine whether the termination of the Concession Agreement was unfair; b) To examine the rights of the parties to the Concession Agreement; c) To examine whether there are any remedies available to the parties; and d) To report any other matters incidental to this petition. The laws that the committee referred to are provided there. I do not wish to go back to them. Methodology a) The committee held meetings and interacted with various stakeholders as they are projected, including meetings with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, the Minister of State for Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, the learned Attorney- General, the Management and Board of Kilembe Mines Limited, the Deputy Attorney-General, the Winding Up Commission of Kilembe Mines, civil and political leaders from Kasese District, among others. b) We also had representatives of the committee visit the headquarters of Tibet and its consortium members in the People’s Republic of China; Kilembe Mines in Kasese, and also interfaced with both the petitioner, their representatives, and senior management of Kilembe Mines Limited. c) They made reference to various laws and other documents, including the Concession Agreement, the winding up commission report and other documents as listed in the report. Limitations The committee visited Kilembe Mines seven years after the termination of the concession and could not ascertain the state of the assets at the time of termination. As a consequence, the investigation was confined to the period during the subsistence of the Concession Agreement, through to its termination. 7.0 Findings, Observations, and Recommenda - tions Under this segment, the committee interrogates the terms of reference as set out above and makes relevant observations and recommendations. 7.1 To investigate whether the termination of the Concession Agreement between the petitioner and the Government of Uganda was unfair The termination of the concession by the Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development in charge of Privatisation and Investment, Hon. Evelyn Anite, was premised on the following grounds. Provision of written undertaking to the satisfaction of the Government that all consortium members shall participate in the project at appropriate stages of the project, as per clause 2.3 of the Concession Agreement. Payment of the annual concession fees as per clause 15.2 of the agreement. Provision of the exploration guarantee as per clause 19.6.1 of the Concession Agreement, despite notices of default. In order to determine whether or not the termination of the concession was unfair or not, the committee interrogated the performance of key obligations as cited by the Minister of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development in charge of Privatisation and Investment, in her notice of termination. 7.1.1, that is the first issue; clause 2.3 of the Concession Agreement obligated the LAYING OF PAPERS

15336 SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT [Mr Ariko] which operates a mechanised copper mine at Kilembe in the Kasese region of Uganda, supported by a hydropower plant known as Mubuku 1 Hydropower Plant. Relying on the above representation, the petitioner entered into the impugned concession with the Government of Uganda. However, after the termination of the concession, the High Court of Uganda in Gilbert Mujogya & Another v. the Attorney-General & others (Supra) declared the concession unlawful for lack of consent by some of the shareholders by Kilembe Mines Limited. vii. The mining business is highly capital- intensive and a very risky venture. The petitioner alleges that they had, at the time of the termination of the Concession Agreement, paid out an aggregate of $56,698,648 out of which the sum of $6,690,000 was directly paid to the Government. The petitioner further alleged that they had suffered a substantial direct loss totalling to $980,000,000. viii. The illegality can arise by the conduct of one or both of the parties and whether they knew about the illegality or not. So, there is no reason why a perfectly valid contract cannot become illegal due to an illegal purpose developing between the parties midstream after the contract was made. Even then, where there is illegality involved, it does not always mean that all the parties are deprived of all the remedies. The common law principles provide that equity shall not suffer a wrong without a remedy. ix. In respect to the impugned Concession Agreement, the petitioner entered into the said concession believing the same to be legal. The Government concealed that there were other shareholders in Kilembe Mines Limited, which prejudiced the petitioner who was at that time an innocent party to the impugned concession agreement. x. The rights of the parties to the Concession Agreement were never determined by the court in the Rukidi case since the single issue handled therein was on shareholding of Kilembe Mines Limited, alienation of the said shares and the effect of the above on the concession. 7.3 Remedies-

Madam Speaker, I appreciate you for prioritising the Ugandans. I do not know who could have served my telephone number but I get a lot of distress calls from parents crying on the phone talking about their sons and daughters populating Arab prisons. We have the Prime Minister and the Minister of Internal Affairs. We cannot continue - these are people that we represent; not only coming from Kasese but all over the country, please. And they follow these proceedings. Madam Speaker, my procedural issue is that wouldn’t it be procedurally right for us, tonight, to get a commitment from the Government that we have a clear plan to go out and rescue our fellow citizens? I do not think that our inaction is just because one of those is not our son,

Honourable members – Kasese you also had something? Okay, you and then Hon. Judith but let us be brief because we have-

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I only want to propose an amendment to the motion because the motion has limited us to crops. I want to move that we amend the motion to include the indigenous animal species and bird species. (Applause) If it is okay, like Members have applauded, then let it be. We want have it all encompassing because, Mr Speaker, you have seen how His Excellency is promoting the Ankole cow. We have just found the cow going to South Africa. If we had patented it, we would be regulating how to control - The indigenous cows in Karamoja and Teso have very tasty meat. How do we preserve this? The chicken from Teso, Lango, Kanungu, Kasese, Sebei, West Nile, all this – That is why I am proposing, Mr Speaker, that we amend the motion to bring that all on board. Failure to do that, other people will take advantage of us. You will find, tomorrow, South Africa patenting the Ankole cow yet it originated from here. Mr Speaker, I move that the motion is amended, if the mover of the motion agrees and Members that we amended to include those. Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Honourable members for Soroti, Kwania, Mukono, Lira, Amolatar, Namayingo, Kasese, Youth and we conclude with – Hon. Chemonges has been here. No, we left that side and we have already finished.

Hon. Gafabusa - (Laughter) - that one. Yesterday, I was here and I noted that one of the long-term interventions, the ministry and the OPM has brought on board other agencies to look at avenues on how we can handle the issues of floods in Bundibugyo, Kasese and Ntoroko. Because, some of these flooding challenges are coming up because of the human settlement and they are bound to happen if we do not address the matter from the cause. So, we are looking at putting up a team and we have brought on board a humanitarian agency. As I speak, the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) is on ground. My team from office - the technical team, are already in the field to engage with the communities and come up with a report on how we can go forward on addressing the cause of these floods. But we will also provide relief and non-food items to the affected communities. Hon. Anifa also whispered to me that she has experienced issues of hailstones in her area. Honourable minister, I have taken note and I will send a team to ensure that we collect data and be able to provide the necessary assistance and that will be in terms of relief food items. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise on a matter of national importance regarding the heavy damage that has been caused by River Nyamwamba in Kasese Town over the years. On the 7 th of September, River Nyamwamba burst its banks and flooded Kasese Town, killing people, destroying houses and sweeping away merchandise, leaving the business community with a lot of suffering. Mr Speaker, it has become common that in May, June and October, this river bursts its banks and leaves many people dead and property destroyed. And this is not happening in Kasese alone but in the whole of the Rwenzori subregion. Districts such as Ntoroko, Bundibugyo, Bunyangabu and Kabarole are also affected. My prayer, Mr Speaker, is that you appoint a team of technocrats from the Ministry of Water and Environment to go and find out what exactly could be the problem in Kasese.

I pray that the minister appoints a team of technocrats to go to Kasese and find out, exactly, what the problem is because every now and then we keep talking about this issue yet it has never got a solution. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

14303 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 18 SEPTEMBER 2024 Number two, I pray that the Government holds accountable every person who has received money meant for desilting River Nyamwamba. We know the Government has released a lot of money to desilt that river, but we are not seeing what the money is being used for, which has caused the people of Kasese to think the Government has neglected them. Finally, I pray that the Government identifies disaster-prone areas and relocates people to safe areas for their safety. Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. Indeed, what the honourable member has raised is now a challenge in Kasese. Mr Speaker, last week I invited the UN agencies, and we had a meeting to look at the long-term plan for handling Kasese, Ntoroko, and Bundibugyo. We invited members of Parliament from Ntoroko, and this is a plan, which is underway that we are organising, and we will be able to have an interface with the community in Kasese as well. The Minister of Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees has also sanctioned relief food items to be taken to Kasese. But I just want the honourable member to note that we are looking at a long-term solution on how the community can be supported, and that includes the relocation that you also requested. I thank you.

14304 SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT Kasese, within this specific period, there will be flooding. In Elegu; in my district, Amuru, where I come from, within this specific time, there will be flooding. And I recall the Minister of Works and Transport promised on the Floor of Parliament that they were working on permanent solutions, almost three years ago. However, up to now, nothing is on the ground. The same problem is occurring every year. It is procedurally okay if the minister could really be very serious and you mark; you put what they are saying into action. Every year we see the same problem and people are suffering.

Yes, Your Excellency. First of all, I want to appreciate the Government for its support. As you are aware, Mubuku Irrigation Scheme serves to facilitate two major crops: maize and cotton. Mubuku has made Kasese to serve as a district basket in as far as food production is concerned. Your Excellency, on 29 April 2009, we were with you in Katoro. Katoro serves as a cotton growing area for cash production. I remember you advising your citizens in Katoro to diversify from cotton to other crops. You promised to give them a large or medium-scale water for production. Your Excellency, your people in Katoro are still waiting for that promise from you to get delivered because it was a presidential pledge – in addition to clean and safe drinking water.

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for affording us this opportunity in Gulu. I am Thembo Gideon Mujungu. I represent the people of Busongora South Kasese, Rwenzori Subregion. I belong to the mighty party.

13958 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME I represent a district that borders the Democratic Republic of Congo. We are aware that we have several rebel activities as a result of the M23 activities there. Several people keep crossing the border points; moving from DRC, and coming into those districts that border DRC. Currently, in my district, we have several people who are coming from DRC to Kagadi before they are moved to Kyangwali Refugee Camp. I don’t know how the minister is ready in mitigating those other issues that may come in, well knowing that the source of the problem for our country together with a number of epidemics, are these border points - Kasese, Bundibugyo, Kagadi, and all those areas. Is there any mechanism the ministry is putting in place to manage this cross-border movement as a result of the M23 and the other rebels? Thank you.

He has given the go-ahead. Allow me, first of all, to start by thanking this Parliament for appreciating the work we do but also for the support that they give to the health sector. Over the years since the year 2000 when we had the first Ebola outbreak, we have been building systems. I would like to allay anxiety; all these things you are worried about are in place. That is the reason we were able to detect the two cases in real-time. Otherwise, if we did not have systems, we would not have detected them. In addition to the quick detection, we have built very strong laboratory, surveillance and risk communication systems; we are moving. One of the issues why we did not come out at that time to declare an outbreak of monkey pox, we said, “We are just out of Ebola and COVID-19, we come and make another declaration-”. So, we just said that we have cases. One most fundamental issue was not to disrupt trade among the population and to cause scare; we do not want you to be scared. We are handling the cases. Actually, during an engagement with Members of Parliament, we wanted to meet the members of Parliament of Kasese, but they were in a hurry. We wanted to bring it to their attention and just allay anxiety because the country and trade must move on. (Applause) Uganda is a signatory to International Health Regulations and whenever there are outbreaks, we do not restrict movements. We have what we call Port Health which is a system where we carry out routine- it is part

13960 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME of our health system- surveillance at the border points of entry. The people of Kasese will testify that there are screens, people, computers and vaccines at the border posts of entry and many others like Malaba; they are all there. Please, let your anxiety cool; the Ministry of Health is in control. (Applause) The issue of availability of vaccines. Once an outbreak is declared a public health emergency of international concern, the entire international community starts mobilising resources, including vaccines. So, even if the production of vaccines goes up, but it may not be adequate to cover everybody. They will start with the most at-risk areas and that is the importance of declaring a fake whenever there is an outbreak because the limited availability of vaccines will be addressed. However, in my statement, I did not say that vaccines are under development, as alluded to by Dr Otaala. I said that they are awaiting licensing. The research and development were concluded long ago. The one in the United States (US) is waiting for approval and then the rest of the vaccines are waiting for licensure. Immediately after that discussion is concluded, the vaccine production will go up. Coordination between African countries- we have the African Centre for Disease Control (CDC) that coordinates us and in my statement, I clearly mentioned that it was the African CDC that first announced a continental emergency. This was referring to the fact that there is an emergency in the African continent and they are coordinating with us. However, specifically within East Africa we also have our East African CDC that is headquartered in Kenya, and it also brings on board the East African countries together. We have our forum where we sit and discuss. In the next week or so, we shall be in Congo Brazzaville to discuss. So, the coordination is ongoing. The border point at Orom and the kidney failure? Mr Speaker, we are sitting on a time bomb of non-communicable diseases. Twenty- five per cent of our population has high blood pressure, and it is not related to the outbreaks or the vaccines. It is related to our lifestyles, and it is something that we must handle urgently. We are preparing documentation on that, including on burning unsaturated fats. You see this business of people eating Blue Band and fried things on the roadside: chips – those things? They use the same oil over and over. We are at risk. The young people are now most at risk. That is why he is seeing cases, but thinking it is due to the outbreaks. No, it is our lifestyle. We need to address it – including other non-communicable diseases. Mr Speaker, I do not want us to worry about village health teams and information. It is already with them and they are doing what is needed. Hastening approval of the vaccines? It is ongoing by the World Health Organisation. The issue of eating monkeys and so on? Mr Speaker, I do not know the communities that eat them. We have talked about these things. I think we need to continue to educate our people. How long does the virus stay on contaminated surfaces? For Mpox, the period is longer. The virus can survive for up to 15 days, under optimal conditions. That is why in my statement I emphasised avoiding the sharing of clothes and so on. However, on hard surfaces, it is between 24 and 48 hours. That is why we must encourage cleaning with sanitisers and making sure that we wash our hands. The Ministry of Health works through what we call One Health approach – for the purpose of the veterinary doctor. The One Health approach brings on board the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Ministry Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and Ministry of Water and Environment. That is how we handle outbreaks, through a One Health approach. [Dr Aceng] MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS

13972 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME Mr Speaker, we request the leaders to harmonise on the land so that the Government can support this initiative. The Government will grant and build, after the issues of land are addressed. The construction of the school will commence when the money is provided for in the budget. Mr Speaker, the Government is engaging the local leadership on the matter, for availability of land for the construction. Grant-aiding is a cheaper alternative, as you all know, compared to the construction of a fully-fledged secondary school, which requires approximately Shs 3.3 billion. The second question, Mr Speaker, came from Hon. Patience Kinshaba Nkunda, Kanungu District. She said that there is guidance from the Ministry of Education and Sports, about Government schools not to have boarding students and pupils. Many schools do not know about that policy because they have not received formal communication. Additionally, ministers and other top government officials have attended fundraising functions to build dormitories. Her prayers are: 1. Are there special schools and districts with exemptions to have boarding facilities? 2. Are these government officials attending such fundraisings aware of the policy? My response, Mr Speaker, is that the spirit of universal education is to increase access to education, especially for the disadvantaged children. Hence, these schools are expected to operate as day schools. In the event that a school would like to operate a boarding section, it must follow the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Education and Sports. It is entirely under the management of the school and its governance to ensure that the school meets the requirements for the operation of the boarding section. Therefore, the boarding of learners should be optional, not a must. Additionally, schools are allowed to operate a boarding section after they have been given permission by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education and Sports. Mr Speaker, they are expected to write to the permanent secretary using the provided application forms, which are forwarded by the respective local governments. The permanent secretary then requests the Directorate of Education Standards to carry out a compliance inspection, and depending on the findings, the Directorate of Education Standards submits the application forms to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education and Sports. If the school meets the requirements, then, the permanent secretary issues a certificate of authority to operate a boarding facility. It is only after the acquisition of this permission that the school is allowed to operate a boarding section. Mr Speaker, all this is meant to secure the safety, security and health of our learners. Therefore, schools which operate such unauthorised boarding sections, and conduct fundraisings, do it against the ministry’s position, and they are aware of it. Question number three came from Hon. Acrobert Kiiza, Bughendera Constituency. He said that “on several occasions, you have met Members of Parliament from the disaster- prone districts, especially the districts at high risk such as Bududa, Bundibugyo, Kasese, Ntoroko, Namusindwa, Buhweju, Bulambuli, etc and it has always been resolved that the Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Works and Transport would urgently fix the washed away bridges and work on the damaged road infrastructure beyond the capacity of the districts. To date, according to the Member, he has not seen critical intervention, especially in the Bundibugyo District to have the washed away bridges and damaged roads worked on.

13973 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 15 AUGUST 2024 His prayers are: 1. When will the OPM in collaboration with the Ministry of Works and Transport implement the plan to have the damaged bridges and roads in Bundibugyo and other flood-prone districts? 2. Can the Office of the Prime Minister help in finding a permanent solution for River Kirumya in Ntotoro Subcounty in Bundibugyo District which has continuously displaced communities living near the river? Mr Speaker, my response is that it is true my office has been coordinating the interventions funded and supported by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development in Bundibugyo District towards the construction of low bridges where possible. In the Financial Year 2023/2024, the finance ministry through the roads maintenance grant established Shs 1 billion to support the construction of low-cost bridges and so far, two small bridges have been constructed in Bundibugyo. However, there has been a challenge of availability and timely release of funds to implement the necessary activities, an issue that is being addressed. Two arch bridges were constructed using the Shs 1 billion road grant. Additionally, three cable bridges at rivers Tokwe, Sandila and Nyahuka were constructed by a Non-Government Organisation (NGO) called Bridges to Prosperity and it has also supported the district by constructing bridges for pedestrians, cyclists and animal use. 3. On the flood mitigation in Ntoroko, my office, together with the World Food Programme (WFP) and Food and Agriculture Organisation(FAO) have supported the district with technical supervision and funds to implement mitigation interventions in the form of flood embankment construction along the river bank areas of River Ssemiliki. The WFP provided Shs 377 million to the district for works supervised by the department of works and engineering of the district. Mr Speaker, my office, the Ministry of Water and Environment, the World Food Programme, FAO, Uganda Red Cross Society, together with the districts of Bundibugyo, Kasese, Ntoroko, and Kisoro are currently developing a multi- hazard early warning to increase resilience and enhance early and anticipatory actions of communities to disaster incidents. Lastly, in addition to the construction above, my office has constructed a new health facility after the old one in Bundibugyo got flooded in 2020. 4. Hon. Ojok Andrew Oulanyah, Member of Parliament, Omoro County His prayer is that we appeal to the Government to take an interest in prioritising the setting up of seed secondary schools in war-affected areas in addition to technical vocational institutions and coding and aid-granting community schools. My response, Mr Speaker, is that Uganda Secondary Education Expansion Project (USEEP) targets refugee-hosting districts, war-affected communities, and those with no Government-aided secondary schools in a subcounty. We have 32 new schools in the refugee hosting districts and 61 schools to be expanded, totalling 93. These are supporting the war-affected populations. 5. Hon. George Didi Bhoka, Member of Parliament of Obongi County. He says the leaders and people of Obongi District appreciate the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries for benefiting from the agro-mechanisation programme. Obongi District, according to him, received one four-wheel tractor and six hand-operated tractors from the agriculture ministry eight

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I understand that we have one minute, in the interest of time. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, the Kasese people were promised clean and safe-drinking water by the President; that was 29 April 2019. The water is still being waited for. They were also promised power by the same President. Since 2019, we are waiting for the power. Finally, they need water for production.

13832 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME [Mr Katusabe] Madam Prime Minister that is the voice and request from the Kasese people. Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Mr Speaker, the water for Kasese will be provided. The President’s commitment stands, and we shall provide the water.

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for the opportunity. I thank the Rt Hon. Prime Minister, for the work that you are doing, especially the care you are giving us in Ntoroko. We are prone to disasters, you know. As we speak now, the entire three subcounties are submerged. We raised the issue of land - you promised to buy land and locate people in the Kanara Subcounty. I raised that issue here with you on the 23 rd and 29 th of November last year, I also wrote to your office. You said you were going to buy land for Kasese and Ntoroko but Kasese land was bought and Ntoroko was left out. Our people are living in a terrible situation. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, when are we getting this land so that our people live as human beings? I 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.

No, Mr Speaker, I am not the one. I have risen because I had also raised a similar issue of a gentleman called Malamungu Rasul, who was arrested and detained in Beni, and it is not among the list of areas that have been read here. Actually, I learnt this issue from a lady who called me from Kasese that she had gone to see her brother in a prison in Congo, in a place called Beni. As they released her brother, one of the prisoners gave her a chit through the brother and said, I am his Member of Parliament. She searched my name and contacts on the website of Parliament. I had raised this issue here, asking the Government to look for this gentleman and, if possible, retrieve him. After I had raised it, officers from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs called me for the details which I gave them. However, since then, and up to now - I expected that just as you have said, if we are talking about prisoners in Congo, we needed comprehensive information on all the Ugandans in Congo. However, the way they have raised it, I expected them to give the details of these prisoners, the districts where they come from, and the villages, and also an update on those who they said are dead and the rest. We need a comprehensive report.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I too add my voice to yours to thank Dr Yonas Woldemariam for the great work that he has done in this country. He came to the country in January 2018 when I was still the Minister of State in the health sector, and we worked closely to ensure that we have in place a strong health system but also, ensured that in looking at the health system, particularly the outbreaks, we strongly took the advice of WHO to improve on the laboratories. In Luo, Woldemariam means - we can change it into wodi Mariam , which means a son of Mariam; that is the Luo name - (Laughter)- and I wanted to state that. Generally, WHO is a key partner of the health sector in the country and supports it, particularly by giving technical support. Dr Yonas, you have not just been a country representative, you have been giving technical guidance to the Ministry of Health and we thank you for walking with them. Whenever we had issues in the health sector, he was always there by the side of the political leaders and also the technical leaders to give guidance and provide necessary support. I remember we were together in parts of Bundibugyo, Kasese and Fort Portal at the time when we had the Ebola outbreak together with the Centre for Disease Control, Executive Director who had visited from the United States. He was present. I pray that the Lord keeps you safe and we wish you the best wherever you will be but please, Uganda remains your second home and I told you this. You cannot be in Uganda and remain the same; it is just a two-hour flight away and there are regular flights from Addis Ababa to this place. Mr Speaker, I pray that the next country director also walks with the Ministry of Health. Some people are in the country and only give technical advice at a distance, but Dr Yonas traversed this country and I do not know whether there is any part of Uganda that he does not know. We thank you for that support and I must say that the health sector achievements that have been attained from the time you were here were partially because of the support that you provided. Thank you. May God bless you.

We got written questions from a number of Members and I want to start with Hon. William Museveni, Member of Parliament for Buwekula South County, Mubende District. “Mityana-Mubende Highway construction, by Energo Construction Company was supposed to be completed this year, that is 2024, but they have not reached even halfway. Why is it that the work is too slow? Since the contractual time has elapsed, what is the way forward for this road?” Mr Speaker and honourable colleagues, his prayer is, Rt Hon. Prime Minister, “can you please update the House on the status of this road?” Here is my response: The Mityana-Mubende 86-kilometre road is a national road in the central subregion. The road connects the capital city of Kampala to the western region towns of Fort Portal, Kasese, Kagadi, among others. The road is an important international route, used to access Uganda’s borders with the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and crucial for agriculture, trade, and security. The Government of Uganda, through the Uganda National Roads Authority, signed a contract on 4 January 2021 for the reconstruction of the Mityana-Mubende road which is 86 kilometres, as I have already told you, including upgrading the 14 kilometres of towns in Mityana Town or Municipality. The construction works will improve rebuilding the road, which had deteriorated, and was affecting the traffic flow along the major route, including repairing the drainage facilities, installing new road signs and road markings. The project is fully funded by the Government of Uganda. The project was originally intended to be completed by 15 April this year. However, the progress of works has been affected by limited resources in the last financial years. This lack of resources forced the contractor to slow down the implementation of the project. The contractor had implemented 40 per cent of the works when the financial challenges were encountered. Currently, the contractor has completed work worth Shs 32 billion and the project is expected to be completed by the end of this financial year. Government is working

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.

13516 RECONSIDERATION OF THE APPROPRIATION BILL, 2024 Under the Directorate of Ethics and Integrity, Vote 112, on a sub-programme called Ethics and Integrity, General Administration and Support, Shs 5 billion was taken away and our justification for returning it was that the funds were allocated to strengthen the adjudication of the Leadership Code Act. In addition, the funds are needed to publish the National Anti-Corruption Survey report on the perception and prevalence of corruption. The report affects the country’s credit rating score internationally, which is a benchmark for our multilateral partners. Vote 130, Treasury Operations - Under commitment fees, Shs 25 billion was taken away, and our justification to return it or reinstate it is that these are contractual obligations for the loans we have acquired for the implementation of key projects where we have not fully absorbed the funds. Therefore, the projections for the Financial Year 2024/2025 are based on existing loan stock plus agreements that will be entered in, in the Financial Year 2024/2025. Under Code 242003, an item called “Others”, Shs 300 billion was taken away, and these are funds for the Government obligations under the share subscription agreement in servicing Roko bills of exchange and payment of Electronic Financial Transfer (EFT) bank charges to Bank of Uganda, among others. Under item 242002, Interest on Treasury Bonds, an amount of Shs 100 billion was taken away, and the justification for reinstatement was that we increased Government borrowing to cater for the priorities in the corrigenda and an increase in domestic debt refinancing, which led to the increase in the interest on Treasury bond issuances. In the Financial Year 2024/2025 budget interest costs increased due to the increase in debt refinancing from Shs 8.36 trillion in Financial Year 2023/2024 to Shs 12.02 trillion in Financial Year 2024/2025, and an increase in net domestic borrowing from Shs 6.67 trillion in Financial Year 2023/2024 to Shs 8.97 trillion in Financial Year 2024/2025. Under the item of Contingency Transfers, an amount of Shs 22.74 billion was taken away and our justification for reinstatement is that Section 26 of the Public Finance Management Act (Amended), 2015, requires the Contingency Fund to be allocated an amount equivalent to 0.5 per cent of the appropriated annual budget of Government of the previous financial year. As such, Shs 169 billion was provided for the Financial Year 2024/2025 reducing the provision by Shs 22.74 billion, implying a breach of the above PFMA requirement. Under Vote 019, Ministry of Water and Environment, on a project called Integrated Water Resources, Shs 4 billion was reallocated and our justification to return it was the Government of Uganda’s counterpart funding for World Bank to finance various urban water supply and sanitation systems in the towns of Busia, Mbale and surrounding towns, Butaleja, Busolwe, Budaka, Kadama, Tirinyi, Kibuku, Namungalwe, Kaliro, Namasale, Koboko, Rukungiri, Kyegegwa, Mpara, Ruyonza, Kumi, among others. On a project called “Support to Rural Water Supply and Sanitation”, Shs 10 billion was taken away and the justification for returning it is that this is funding for the Government interventions to increase access to safe and clean water through “a source per village” in rural areas. The specific interventions include the construction and rehabilitation of point water sources in the communities, expansion of dilapidated piped water supply systems, motorising and upgrading of high-yield boreholes and solar-powered systems to expand and improve service coverage in various districts of Yumbe, Kyankwanzi, Kakumiro, Mubende, Mityana, Isingiro, Buliisa, Kasese, Amudat, Agago, Kaabong, among others. Under a project called “Building Resilient Communities, Wetlands, Ecosystems and Associated Catchments in Uganda ” , an amount of Shs 2 billion was reallocated.

13456 PRESENTATION OF THE BUDGET SPEECH FY 2024/2025 Water, sanitation and environment protection As a result of Government intervention, more Ugandans now have access to safe, clean water. Coverage in rural areas is now estimated at 67 per cent and 70 per cent in urban areas. Out of the 71,225 villages, 56,617 villages have been served with at least one safe water source. In the Financial Year 2024/2025, clean water coverage will increase to 70 per cent and 85 per cent in rural and urban areas respectively. In the rural areas, the target is to reduce the distance to the nearest source of clean and safe water for human and animal consumption to less than one kilometre while in urban areas to less than 500 metres. The following are among the priorities we have budgeted for the next financial year: v. Construction of 52 large solar-powered water supply systems in 19 districts that are currently at less than 50 per cent water coverage. These are - let me mention them; Agago, Yumbe, Amudat, Kaabong, Bulambuli, Buvuma, Buyende, Namayingo, Rakai, Nakaseke, Sembabule, Kibaale, Kasese, Kyegegwa, Mubende, Lyantonde, Kakumiro, Kassanda and Kisoro; vi. Construction of another 15 solar-powered water supply systems in the rural growth centres of Lwentulege, Bugwara, Kabamba, Kikoora, Mwitanzige, Lugala, Kitenga, Bukizibu/Bumwena, Igwaya, Kidera, Bugomolwa, Kitonge - Nakasero, Kikonge, Kasese and Lubaali. This will cover a population of over 272,000 persons; vii. Completion of the construction of 31 town water supply systems and sanitation facilities in Bulangira, Kanapa, Aligoi, Opengate Kawo, Karago, Nyakashaka, Buikwe, Bundibugyo, Kapchorwa, Kamuli, Namasale, Kaliro - Namungalwe, Butaleja–Busolwe, Budaka–Kadama- Tirinyi-Kibuku, Kyankwanzi, Butemba, Ngoma, Lunya, Palabek-Kal (Lamwo), Obongo, Lamwo, Rhino Camp, Arra/ Dufile, Amuru, Kole, Alangi, Zeu, Kakingol, Iriiri and Lorengacora; viii. Construction of 17 rural water supply systems in the refugee hosting districts of Adjumani, Lamwo, Madi-Okollo, Moyo, Terego and Yumbe; ix. Progress of the construction of 26 water supply systems at various stages in Manafwa (now at 80 per cent), Mukura (40 per cent), Kidera (40 per cent), Atutur (40 per cent), Kadungulu (10 per cent), Kaproron (10 per cent), Iyolwa (20 per cent), Bukumi (5 per cent), Rubaya (50 per cent), Bethlehem - Nabigasa, Phase 1 (50 per cent), Kabura - Mwizi Phase 1 (50 per cent), Mabira (50 per cent), Bukiro (50 per cent), Nyabisirira (50 per cent), Bugarama - Karweru (50 per cent), Rwere - Kateretere (50 per cent), Kagarama – Bushura - Kibuzigye (50 per cent), Nyanseke (80 per cent), Busaale (95 per cent), Kibuzi (100 per cent), Adilang, Puranga (Pader), Kasawo, Phase 1 (5 per cent), Kyebando - Kasimbi (5 per cent), Nabilatuk and Losilang; and x. Increasing the water for production storage capacity for commercial farmers from 52.6 million cubic metres to 76.8 million cubic metres. To support the restoration of our environment and reverse the effects of climate change, Government shall undertake the restoration of 42,450 hectares of degraded wetlands along the Awoja, Kandekye - Ruhorobero, Nchwera, Chambura, Kiruruma, Naigombwa, Kibimba, Tochi, Aswa, Sezibwa, Mayanja, Muzizi, Mpanga and Lumbuye water systems. In addition, Government shall demarcate a 720-kilometre boundary with concrete pillars along the following wetlands; Kibimba, Tochi, Sezibwa, Mayanja, Muzizi,Awoja, Mpologoma, Ishasha, Kandekye, Ruhorobero, Nchwera, Chambura, Kiruruma and Naigombwa. A total of 15 million seedlings of assorted tree species shall be procured and distributed to individual farmers in several districts as well as to refugee-

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);

13466 PRESENTATION OF THE BUDGET SPEECH FY 2024/2025 iii. Improving the quality of power supply through the systematic operation and maintenance of existing power infrastructure; iv. Increasing access to clean energy by supporting clean cooking technologies; v. The development of five micro-grid power plants using wind and solar hybrids in Karamoja; and vi. Preparatory activities for the 8,400MW Nuclear Power Plant in Buyende District. Industrial development and manufacturing Madam Speaker, in our tenfold growth strategy, the Government is going to step up efforts to accelerate the diversification of the economy, add value to raw materials to boost exports and import substitution to continue reducing our import bill, and also build more basic industries to produce items that Ugandans use daily such as sugar, soap, cooking oil, clothes, medicines, construction materials, et cetera. Our industrialisation efforts are being undertaken mainly through the private sector, but with the State playing a de- risking role. The Government, through the Uganda Development Corporation (UDC), is undertaking targeted investments to increase Uganda’s manufacturing capacity. During the financial year we are ending, the following investments have been undertaken by UDC to increase local manufacturing capacity: i. The Atiak Sugar Factory has acquired modern mechanised equipment for the sugarcane fields in Amuru and Lamwo districts and installed modern irrigation systems; ii. Four tea factories have been supported to expand and process tea for both domestic market and export. These are: Kayonza Growers Tea Factory; Kigezi Highland Tea Factory; Mabale Growers Tea Factory; and Mpanga Growers Tea Factory; iii. Continued support to Mutuma Commercial Agencies (Ltd) in Luuka District to produce intermediary and final products such as surgical cotton, cotton cake, soap stock, and cotton-seed oil; iv. Investment in Bukona Agro-processors Ltd in Nwoya District to process cassava and cereals into ethanol for cooking. It produces 40,000 litres of ethanol per day; v. Investment in Budadiri Arabica Coffee Mills (Ltd) in Sironko District to process coffee for export; vi. Additional investment in Soroti Fruits Factory (Ltd) that is processing six metric tons of fruit (mangoes and oranges) per hour into fruit concentrates and juice; and vii. UDC has also invested in East African Medical Vitals (Ltd), manufacturer of examination and surgical gloves, to increase the company’s production capacity to create jobs and also save the country foreign exchange through import substitution. Madam Speaker, the Government is also continuing to develop industrial parks to provide investors with the required infrastructure and utilities. Work is in progress in Namanve Park (with 190 companies operating); Liao Shen Park in Kapeeka (19 companies); Sino-Uganda Industrial Park in Mbale (18 companies); Luzira Park (11 companies); Bweyogerere Park (eight companies); and MMP in Buikwe (seven companies). Other operational industrial parks include Jinja, Soroti, Kasese, Mbarara, and Tian Tang-Mukono Industrial Park. So far, over $3.5 billion has been invested in these parks in the form of foreign direct investment. Over 266,812 direct and indirect jobs have so far been created. Security, good governance, and rule of law Madam Speaker, peace and security, as well as the rule of law, are the foundation for all other

13475 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 13 JUNE 2024 We need low-cost money for the wealth creators, which is already available in the forms of PDM, Emyooga, and Uganda Development Bank loans(UDB). I really want to render irrelevant these money lenders and all these people who suck our people. We shall continue putting money in PDM, Emyooga , and UDB, so that the people who want wealth creation, have soft money; money that is not very expensive. On labour, we have electricity is going to be cheaper. Money for wealth creation will be cheaper. Labour is still not expensive. However - and those are the crucial factors when you are producing a good or a service; the cost of electricity; the cost of the money you borrow; the labour costs or the wages and the salaries, which are being paid to the workers. However, to further handle the issue of the cost of production that renders products and services competitive, correct this in my speech. This should be uncompetitive, we must reactivate rail and water transport for cargo. This is what is missing now. Electricity is being worked on, money for borrowing or production, not for importing - we are not giving you soft money for importing. If you want to import, you go to the moneylenders. You go to these other fellows, the commercial banks. Otherwise, if you are a wealth creator, we have money for you. The cost of labour is still low. But how about the cost of transport? Transport, not for people who are going to nightclubs. Those can pay whatever cost they are charged; it is up to them. If you do not want to pay, you stay home. So, when I say the cost of transport, I am talking about transport of goods and cargo. That is why the railway is our next big target. Railway for the goods and - especially for the goods, even people, but mainly for cargo. We must reactivate rail and water transport for cargo. We have repaired the old metre gauge from Malaba to Kampala, and also from Tororo to Gulu and Pakwach. We are going to start building the Standard Gauge Railway(SGR) from Malaba to Kampala, and from Kampala to Mpondwe in Kasese. Later we are going to expand the SGR to Gulu-Nimule. The railway will transform our capacity to create wealth. ‘Because once the railway is fully operational, then, the transport of goods from here up to Mombasa will be cheaper. From here up to Dar es Salaam, from here up to South Sudan and from here up to the Democratic Republic of Congo, it will be cheaper. It will also save the roads - because this crowding you see on the roads by the heavy trucks is because the railway is not working. When the railway starts taking off the trucks from the road – then the pipeline. We are also making pipelines for petroleum. Now, the passengers are on the road, the cargo is on the road and you also have the petroleum products on the road. That is why the road is under such pressure. The railway and the pipeline for petroleum will solve that problem. That means that only the passengers or light trucks will remain on the road. It will also cause less pollution and consume less fuel. This is because, on the road, you spend a lot of fuel due to slow movement. We are moving forward on the issue of introducing electric cars and electric boda- bodas – as you saw here. Therefore, these are the two additional strategic interventions: the railway and the pipeline for petroleum products. The other strategic intervention, which we need, to stabilise our economy forever, is irrigation for agriculture. The minister talked a bit about it here, but we need to put more emphasis on it. You know we are lucky that we have rains, but sometimes the rains delay and sometimes we have less rains and then we get a crisis of lack of food. So, to remove that occasional disturbance, we must have supplementary agriculture arrangements. Much of the time, we shall have the rains, but if the rains do not come, there should be standby irrigation. With these, plus what I said in the State-of-the-Nation address and what has been said in the budget, there is nothing that will impede us. Remember that in the State-of- the-Nation Address, I addressed the issue of

Honourable members, before we go further, I have visitors here who would like to leave. In the public gallery this afternoon, I have a delegation from Bukedea District, represented by Hon. Ikojo, Hon. Opolot, and Hon. Anita Among. You are most welcome, thank you very much. And their muko is there (Laughter). They are here to observe the proceedings. Honourable members, we also have a delegation of leaders from Busongora County South, Kasese. Where are you? They are there. They are represented by Hon. Thembo Gideon Mujungu and Hon. Florence Kabugho. They include: 1. Mr John Bosco Kananura – Chairperson LC III; 2. Bald Kacancu – Speaker; 3. Pawel Birungi – Secretary; 4. John Bagonza – Youth Leader; 5. Honey Robert 6. Swaldo Barozi; 7. Bridget Kemitahyo; 8. Frank Asiimwe; 9. Robert Kaheru; and 10. Robert Katengye. You are most welcome. Thank you very much for coming. The certificate of financial implication that we have just gotten out of the library is here, which was raised by Hon. Ssemujju. Hon. Lee, please go ahead.

13390 THE EXCISE DUTY (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2024 feed at the Aquaculture Research and Development Centre in Kajjansi; establish and/or upgrade seed storage, threshing and drying facilities to ensure sustainable supply of quality seed under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries - Shs 134 billion. Transport infrastructure development The Government plans as follows: 1. Start construction of the SGR and continue implementing preparatory activities for SGR; that is update of feasibility studies for the western and eastern routes, and undertaking environment, social, economic impact assessments; acquisition of right of way for SGR (206 acres) of land are already acquired in seven districts. That is Tororo to Mayuge, among others – Shs 2.221 trillion; 2. Maintenance of 13 aerodromes; that is Arua, Gulu, Pakuba, Masindi, Lira, Kidepo, Moroto, Soroti, Tororo, Jinja, Mbarara, Kasese and Kisoro – Shs 3 billion; 3. Construction and upgrade of national roads and bridges – Shs 1.27 trillion. Some of these include – (Interjections) - colleagues, this is on roads. The Government plans to spend Shs 1.27 trillion and I will mention some of the roads: a) Hoima-Wanseko Road – Shs 141.1 billion; b) Kampala Flyover – Shs 69.8 billion; c) Construction of 66 selected bridges – Shs 54.2 billion; d) Rwenkunye-Apac-Lira-Acholibur Road – Shs 238 billion; e) Kisoro-Mgahinga National Park Headquarters Road – Shs 83.26 billion; f) Moyo-Yumbe-Koboko Road – Shs 180.6 billion; g) Upgrading of Kyenjojo-Kiruhura-Bwizi- Rwamwanja-Kahunge, Mpara-Bwizi – Shs 50 billion; and 4. Upgrading of Jinja-Mbulamuti-Kamuli- Bukungu Road from gravel to paved standard – Shs 34.5 billion. Continuation of the rehabilitation of over 450 kilometres of national roads. Some of those roads include: a) Kampala-Jinja Highway – Shs 20 billion; b) Busunju-Kiboga-Hoima – Shs 25.05 billion; c) Mityana-Mubende Road and Mityana Town Roads inclusive – Shs 42.38 billion; d) Alwii-Nebbi road and upgrading of Pakwach and Nebbi Town Council roads in total – Shs 17 billion; e) Rehabilitation of Karuma-Pakwach Road – Shs 20.05 billion; and f) Reconstruction of Matugga-Semuto- Kapeeka Road – Shs 61.12 billion; 5. Rehabilitation of district, urban and community access roads will continue under the Ministry of Works and Transport. There is Shs 142.3 billion; and 6. Shs 1 billion to each district, city and municipality for road grading, murram and compacting. In total, Shs 176 billion has been allocated for this purpose; Colleagues, in the last financial year, they are roads that the Ministry of Works signed contracts for and work has started. Those ones are worth Shs 33 billion, but they are not yet completed and not even paid. There are those where contracts have been signed but work has not commenced. They are worth Shs 33 billion. There is a whole list in the annex. There are also roads where the contracts have been procured but have not been signed, worth about Shs 13 billion. In the last cash release, the Government gave this particular vote Shs 19 billion, whereas the total requirement is Shs 79 billion. So, the budget at base is Shs 26 billion. We must recommend Shs 34 billion to cover those roads. The list of those roads covers the whole country. 7. The following ferries development/ construction will be undertaken. The total for this ferry is Shs 11.8 billion. That is: a) Substantial completion of two Bukungu- Kagwara-Kaberamaido (BKK) ferries and their landing sites; SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT [Mr Achia]

xq. .d +8-- i*- n I I I I +.' ,i ,4 t,- t.. t, . i, -L4ii . *K -i- ,4 ui iri',1.,[,:-:. - I Amount (OOO'I Vote Descriptlon 8,644,O74 709 Council Kamuli Munici 10,801,134 7to Kapchorwa Municipal Council 16,156,203 Kasese Municipal Council 7LL 24,906,066 7t2 Kira Municipal Council 5,469,632 713 Kisoro Municipal Council 8,704,093 Kitzum Municipal Council 7t4 9,574,4O9 Koboko Municipal Council 7t5 a,27t,209 716 Kotido Municipal Council 8,752,t71 717 Kumi Municipal Council 9,2t6,O42 Lugazi Municipal Council 7L8 t6,295,026 Makindye-Ssabagabo Municipal Council 719 t2,060,528 720 Masindi Municipal Council 12,404,Ot6 72t Mityana Municipal Council 6,643,756 Moroto Municipal Council 722 L2,4a7,408 723 Mubende Municipal Council 2t,545,205 Mukono Municipal Council 724 26,304,364 Nansana Municipal Council 725 6,O20,976 726 Nebbi Municipal Council 15,000,089 727 Nieru Municipal Council 6,226,394 Ntungamo Municipal Council 724 12,r32,708 Rukungiri Municipal Council 729 15,643,023 730 Sheema Municipal Council 11,894,459 73r Tororo Municipal Council 20,657,t94 Abim District 801 36,860,992 Adiumani District 802 32,872,323 803 Agago District 25,478,944 Alebtong District 804 ) 23,rO9,607 805 Amolatar District rr,2to,637 806 Amudat District 25,200,826 ao7 Amuria District 20,a92,676 808 Amuru District T 0qA- t2 4r" t-l''.-- H'.+ t t

.+_ lA*' "' - #+- I dI,\ h 24 . - l B l X Amount (OOO'| Descrlption Vote 635 o23 I Munici al Council 707 2,t84 771 Council Kabale Munici 704 2 238 353 709 Kamuli Munici al Council 801 696 Ka chorwa Munici al Council 7ro 3 374 618 7tt Council Kasese Munici 8 4tt 400 Kira Munici al Council 7t2 406 243 713 Council Kisoro Munici 2 331 982 Council Munici Ki 7L4 529 160 Koboko Munici al Council 715 629 284 Kotido Munici al Council 716 807 186 Kumi Munici al Council 717 2 9t4 388 7ta Council Munici 16 o46 686 7t9 Makindye- S sabagabo MuniciPal Council 1 454 635 Council Masindi Munici 720 1 387 188 Council Munici Mi 721 744 299 Moroto Munici al Council 722 5 462,294 Mubende Munici al Council 723 6 401 99t 724 Council Mukono Munici 10 505 394 Nansana Munici al Council J zzs 311 301 \-zzo Nebbi Munici al Council 429 909 N al Council eru Munici 727 I 910 156 728 Council o Munici N 1 o59 681 Council Rukun ri Munici 729 2 851 608 Sheema Munici al Council 730 3 528 439 73t Council Tororo Munici 9 o56 849 Abim District 801 5 061 3a2 Ad umani District 802 5 086 244 District 803 3 62L o37 District AIebto 804 7 t44 543 805 Amolatar District 2 946 471 Amudat District 806 9 513,880 Amuria District 807 3 s99 449 Amuru District --808 2 394 342 District A 809 3 190 840 Arua District 810 5 310 694 Budaka District 811 -_*3-- /{* M 'l-,1.i- t,

13255 THE E LEVENTH P A RLIAMENT OF UGANDA MONDAY , 6 MAY 2024 Dokolo, Nakapiripirit, Nabilatuk, Bukedea, Bulambuli, whereas landslides were reported in Kasese, Kisoro, Bulambuli, Sironko, Bududa, Bunyangabu districts. Some claimed lives; we lost seven people. Recently, Uganda National Meteorological Authority released a 10-day rainfall forecast from 1 st to 10 th of May 2024, which indicates a continuation of wet conditions over most parts of the country. The heavy to very heavy rainfall events were expected over southwestern in some of the areas in Kigezi and greater Bushenyi districts. In the northeastern, in districts of Karamoja and Teso subregions and neighbouring Acholi subregions. Other areas expected to receive enhanced rainfall are in mid-western subregions in the districts of Masindi, Kiryandongo, Kagadi, Kabarole and Elgon Highlands. The 10-day rainfall forecast by Uganda Meteorological Authority indicates that very heavy rainfall events are expected to cause potential hazards, such as flash floods, debris flows, landslides, in addition, water logging, contamination of water sources due to increased surface rain off into such sources. Disruption of traffic flow along transportation routes as some bridges may be washed away or collapse, an example of the bridges you have already mentioned earlier. Moreover, these heavy rainfalls are expected to damage critical infrastructure- like schools-

Thank you, Madam Speaker. First, I thank the Government Chief Whip for being responsive to members’ demands. My pigeonhole is full of the Government Chief Whip’s communication and responses to what I put or submit in this very Parliament. My only challenge is that, despite his multiple responses to my submissions, no action has been taken by the relevant ministries. In the interest of time, I will have to assemble the submissions that I have made on the Floor. One is about the closed Teachers’ Training College; Bwera Teachers’ College, in my community. We have no other teaching institution in Kasese except the one that was closed by the Government. You directed the minister to come and give a response but that has never been done. Two -

13215 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA FRIDAY, 3 MAY 2024 Another thing is clean, safe drinking water. Your in-laws from Kasese continue to draw drinking water from dirty sources. The closed border - Government Chief Whip, all borders in Uganda are open except the Kasese border. The Kasese Airport, the public university that was promised by the President to the people of Kasese, the mortality rates and finally, this Parliament – (Interjection) – Excuse me –

Yes. Hon. Obua and Hon. Jonathan –(Laughter) What Hon. Jonathan said is, when you look at schedule 1, you are looking at the location and land size of the institute and the institute here - You have Kabale located on land in that size. You have Kaliro located at that place, you have Mubende, Muni, Bunyama - Basically, those kinds of things. The issue of why the urgency, the budgetary aspects, the advertisement - If you do not have the documents, I can give you mine and you read from them. Let us first answer one thing at ago. Hon. Ibrahim, you are the one who asked about that issue and we are saying we are answering what you asked for. No, I have not read everything. Why are you talking about Kasese? I have not read everything for you.

13162 SUPPLEMENTARY SCHEDULE NO.2 FOR FY 2023/2024 of interim certificates and completion of construction activities of the Uganda Wildlife Education and Conservation Centre (Entebbe), Uganda Wildlife Research Institute (Kasese) and Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (Jinja). It should be noted that the World Bank has disbursed funds into the Designate Account for financing of the outstanding works. Therefore, the committee recommends approval of Shs 37.36 billion to Vote 008 - Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, for the implementation of the outstanding Competitiveness and Enterprise Development Project activities. Vote 010 - Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries: Shs 9.12 billion. This money is to cater for external financing for the Agriculture Cluster Development Project (ACDP) following the 100 per cent release of the project’s approved budget in quarter one by the World Bank. The funding is meant to facilitate project closure activities across the project districts, including evaluation studies, closeout meetings, infrastructure commissioning and documentation. The details, Madam Speaker, are in the table as outlined in the report, totalling to Shs 9,121,689,812. The committee recommends approval of Shs 9.12 billion to Vote 010 - Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, to cater for external financing for the Agriculture Cluster Development Project following the 100 per cent release of the project’s approved budget in quarter one by the World Bank Vote 012 - Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development: Shs 232.387 billion. It is broken down as follows: i) Shs 66 billion to be transferred from Vote 103 - Treasury Operations, to facilitate part payment of the outstanding compensation obligations under the Ranchers Restructuring Programme. These funds were provided under Supplementary Schedule 1 and approved under Vote 130 - Treasury Operations, for direct payment to the verified beneficiaries and bona fide owners of the ranches. It should be noted that the current, as of April 2024, outstanding compensation award is Shs 372.297 billion. ii) Shs 135.103 billion, which is external financing for clearing contractual obligations under the Competitiveness and Enterprise Development Project (CEDP). It is required to finance the land component. This is required to facilitate the implementation of the land information system under Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development. The annexure is attached as “Annex 2” for the details of the activities. iii) Shs 31.284 billion is external financing for Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID) to meet the contractual obligations. This supplementary is meant to clear contracts and avoid accruing arrears that could arise out of the project closure. The details are in Annex 3. Therefore, the committee recommends the following: 1. Approval of Shs 66 billion to facilitate part payment of the outstanding compensation obligations as per Annex 1 under the Ranches Restructuring Programme. 2. Approval of Shs 135.103 billion under the Competitiveness and Enterprise Development Project to meet the contractual obligations. 3. Approval of that Shs 31.284 billion for Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development Project to meet the contractual obligations. Vote 018 - Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development: Shs 3 billion. It is required to facilitate the commemoration of the Uganda Martyrs’ Day celebrations. Table 4 gives the details: i) Support to the Catholic Diocese of Nebbi, which is leading the celebrations in

12967 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA FRIDAY, 19 APRIL 2024 that increased production of high-value crops has stimulated the establishment of processing facilities. For instance, five foreign investors have established Hass Avocado processing factories in Namanve, Buikwe, Nakaseke, Kasese and Kyenjojo districts. The handling of the avocado produced has improved through these investors who can utilise and add value to all the Avocado produced in Uganda and generate more export earnings under the guidance of NAADS. Madam Speaker, ensuring food security is a key constitutional responsibility of the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries that NAADS is better placed to deliver as a frontline agency of the Ministry. Secondly, this is an ongoing and not a term responsibility that needs to be maintained. NAADS has become the face of the ministry with farmers throughout the country, and a household name in most of families. The committee does not believe that the ministry can substitute NAADS on food security and perform in this endeavour. On whether the NAADs administration costs are so high that they drain the Treasury at the expense of service delivery, the committee notes that the claimed savings are more than the projected budget for the Financial Year 2024/2025 by Shs 67.88 billion. This is unbelievable, as NAADS has been allocated only Shs 35.5 billion in the Financial Year 2024/2025. This is the analysis of the certificate of financial implication for NAADS. The committee also notes that although NAADS does not collect non-tax revenue, it is an important player in the agricultural value chain, which is the mainstay of Uganda’s economy. The current level of GDP export growth and employment creation is majorly based on agricultural production that NAADS has helped to grow and sustain. It would be reckless to mainstream NAADS into the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries and risk this gain. Madam Speaker, in conclusion, the pivotal role played by NAADS in filling the gaps in the agricultural sector and providing demand- driven services, in line with modern agricultural trends and global market demands, cannot be overemphasised. This calls for strengthening of the institution, rather than mainstreaming it into the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries. The committee, therefore, recommends that the National Agricultural Advisory Services (Amendment) Bill, 2024, for purposes of food security and value addition, should not be passed. (Applause) Madam Speaker, I beg to report. (Applause)

Let me first speak, and we want your guidance, Madam Speaker. The Committee on Health visited Kasese last year on the matter of Kilembe Mines Hospital-

Madam Speaker, I thank you very much for this opportunity. Yesterday, we left this place at 11.00 p.m. and we were comfortable. I can see the honourable minister is rushing to come and react on what Members have submitted but this is one of the most important sectors we need to talk about. We did not debate agriculture. A few Members debated on water, Madam Speaker, I request that you give Members 30 more minutes to talk about this sector. Maybe the Honourable MP from Kasese is comfortable and he has health centres everywhere and his people are happy. However, I request that you allow 30 more minutes so that we contribute to this issue. This will help us to legislate on matters that concern our people. I beg to submit.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the committee for the report and I have a critical passion for that particular sector, especially tourism. When we do not fund research on wildlife, we stop being serious even when we talk about tourism and our destinations because our tourism is mainly made up of wildlife. Knowledge about species, their biology, ecology, the life history and guiding appropriate conservation actions are what would come out of the Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute. Therefore, if this institute is to specifically do for us this research, we would now have the right and reliable data on our species; the big five, and the critical limiting resources on conserving this kind of bio-diversity and also assessing the threats to these species. It would also assist in giving us a business case for our conservation. Mr Speaker, if you went to the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre, what would we give as the worth of the animals sitting there? If we could give the worth of the animals that we present for tourism, this country would long be in the middle-income status. If only we understood the worth of the animals we present, we would be way above others in providing the right destination for tourism. His Excellency has called on attention to research and innovation. I wonder why the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities does not think that research is so critical when we are making tourism one of the pillars of this economy and it is bending towards wildlife conservation. I would like to plead with the honourable members that the institute in Kasese needs a lot of funding. We have researchers who cannot be deployed because the wage bill is very low. We are losing species every day and we cannot even contain their genes in our banks because we do not have the research. We even do not know the gene content of the animals we have. The research department at UWA requires this kind of investment. It has a return on investment and will give our conservation a business case. This is the pillar of the economy of this country. I plead that we get appropriate financing for the Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I add my voice to the voices of those who have thanked the committee for the good report. There is a saying, that difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations, but the difficult roads that we have in Kigezi are appalling yet we have a national park with many mountain gorillas and the roads are impassable. We are losing a lot of revenue because of impassable roads and as such, it is very prudent and important that the Ministry of Works and Transport together with other agencies like UNRA prioritise these tourism roads. Some roads like Muhanga-Kisiizi-Kebishoni and Kisoro-Nkuringo-Mgahinga have been removed from the Project Implementation Plan (PIP), in the next financial year. Instead of starting the roads, those roads have been removed from the PIP. As Kigezi, Mr Speaker, we think that we are getting a raw deal. First of all, the money that is collected from those mountain gorillas is a lot, but the people of Kigezi are not benefiting from it. The whole of it comes to the central yet the roads are bad. In addition, I would like to add to what Hon. Kateshumbwa has said on the internet in the national parks. Recently, I was in Kanungu travelling all the way to Kasese. There is no internet in the whole of Queen Elizabeth National Park. If you are a tourist and you cannot access the internet or talk to your people wherever they are, it becomes a problem for you to come back and visit that area. Additionally, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities is generating a lot of money. Although Hon. Kateshumbwa was talking about a reduction, my records show that in the year 2022 alone, they collected US$ 736 million, up from around US$ 630 million that was collected in 2021. So, the tourism sector needs to be supported. We need to enable its functionality, we need to ensure that the internet is working, and the tourism roads are done and we need to ensure that advertising is top-notch because, in the end, we are going to benefit from it. Finally, there are low-hanging fruits in the tourism sector like sports. What some people do not understand is that certain sports can promote tourism. For example, in Kigezi, we have high altitude and we can easily train many athletes who can compete on the world stage. So, if the Ministry of Education and Sports can promote that sector, we can get a lot of money from that area. I beg to submit, Mr Speaker.

Thank you. I thought I should say those. Several issues have come up and I will speak to a few. On the issue of advertising, we all agree with what Hon. Kateshumbwa said that the potential of the sector is enormous. Once we invest money in this sector, definitely we will get results and indeed you will not even compare us to oil. Still, the mandate – (Interjections) - yes, this is true and we have said this - is still with you, Members of Parliament. Ours is just to present what we have and within what we can spend. On the issue that has been raised by Members on the access to the road between Masindi to Pakwach, yes, I agree that Members of Parliament, like any other members of the community who pay, are supposed to pay. This road was initially a tourism road different from the one going through Queen Elizabeth in Kasese because through that one would go through without paying. Otherwise, from time immemorial, to access that road, you had to pay a park entry fee and it was specifically built for tourism. That is the reason there is an opposite access route. Sometimes, when there are issues with the main Pakwach Road, we have given clearance and allowed them to go through, but when you say that we stop the collection and let access to this road be like for any other road, it becomes a challenge. The revenues -

12512 SECTORAL C O MMITTEE R E P O R TS I support the position of the Speaker that we should split the committee into two, that is, trade and tourism. Somebody raised the issue of sugar structures; we brought the Bill here and you requested us to go and do more consultations. We are glad to hear that you need it back and we are ready to return it. Hon. Isingoma, on the issue of cooperatives, we have now registered 10,638 primary cooperatives in Uganda and we are working out a strategy to re-establish a cooperative bank. We are now at Cabinet level and we will be coming to inform the Parliament on how far we have gone. I appreciate the committee for creating a separate vote for the Uganda Development Corporation (UDC), but I want to urge Parliament again that creating a vote alone without appropriating money to it, won’t let us achieve much. Honourable colleagues, we have a strategy of value addition, import substitution and export promotion. We have agreed that we should increase our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from currently Shs 55 billion to Shs 500 billion in the next five years. To achieve this, we must add value to the things that we are producing and our contribution to the industrial sector now stands at 27.4 per cent of the national GDP. To achieve this value addition and industrialisation, we must invest in sectors that actually will achieve that objective, and UDC is one of the arms of the Government that can help us achieve industrialisation. We need to process our cocoa in Kasese, starch in Northern Uganda, Irish potatoes in Southern Uganda and fruits across the country. We must end the importation of old clothes to Uganda gradually and to do this, we need resources. Yes, the private sector is moving ahead to do a lot of things that we are seeing, but some sectors are not very attractive to the private sector and some of these sectors can be worked out through investment in UDC. Therefore, while the creation of the Vote is important, appropriating money to it is more important. I urge the Members to do that. The acting Leader of the Opposition raised the issue of the removal of trade barriers. Indeed, we are doing that through the East African Community and African Continental Free Trade Area - (Mr Nsereko rose_)

12554 SECTORAL C O MMITTEE R E P O R TS my district when they are transferred and they do not have where to put their property. You find that someone is transferred maybe from Kasese to Kampala and they have to keep their household items, including beddings like mattresses, on the verandas of the unipots. This is very practical –

(iii) Vote 015 Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (MTIC); (iv) Vote 154 Uganda National Bureau of standards (UNBS); (v) Vote 306 Uganda Export Promotions Board (UEPB); Besides the Ministry of Tourism and its Agencies, the Committee also held meetings with other MDAs that have been allocated funding within the Tourism Development Programme namely; (i) (ii) Vote L22-Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Vote O2O-Ministry of ICT and National Guidance (UBC) The Committee also considered Policy Statements for FY 2024 /25 for tlre following Government Agencies that do not have vote status- (i) Uganda Wildtife Authority (UWA); (ii) Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC); (iii) Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI), Jinja; (iv) Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute (UWRTI), Kasese; (v) Uganda Warehouse Receipt System Authority (UWRSA); (vi) Uganda Development Corporation (UDC); and (vii) Management Training and Advisory Centre (MTAC). (b) reviewed the following documents: (i) The Ministerial Poticy Statement for the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities for the Financial Year 2O2a 125; (ii) The Ministerial Policy Statement for the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives for the Financial Y 2a I 25; I (,- (^ \ 2 D\ (-tIl'L- I 4 F t' # iJr .-E!*

(iii) The Approved National Budget Framework Paper and Medium Term Expenditure Framework for the Financial Years 2024/25- 2028 I 2e; (iv) The Report of the Budget Committee on the National Budget Framework Paper for Financial Years 2O2a/25-2O28/29; (") The Annual Draft Budget Estimates for the Financial Year 2024/25; and (vi) Recommendations of the Sectoral Committees on the Annual Budget Estimates for the Financial Year 2023/24. 3.O THE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME The Tourism Development Prograrnme comprises of the following votes; and affiliate Government Agencies / Institutions : (a) Vote O22 Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities; (b) Vote 1 17 Uganda Tourism Board (UTB); (c) Uganda Wildtife Authority (UWA); (d) Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC); (e) Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute (UWRTI), Kasese; and (0 Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI), Jinja. 3.1 Compliance of the Ministry of Tourism, lllildlife and Antiquities with the Gender and Equity. hrrsuant to Section 13(1 1)(e)(i) of the hrblic Finance Management Act, 2015, The provision requires the Minister responsible for Finance to consult with the Equal Opportunities Commission, to issue a Certificate; (i) certifying that the budget is gender and equity responsive; and (ii) specifying the measures taken to equalize opportunities for men, women, persons with disabitities and other maginalised groups. According to the ficate issued by the Ministry il-' 5 v v & 6 Ad, W

Table 1O: Destination of identilied Resources Reallocated Funds within Tourism Identified Priorities and of Development Program Recurrent Dev't prr€nt of Kalangala Tourism Circuit including docking facilities, information center, Speke Monument and Parking Space. Develo 3.O UWEC - Revamping the Gardens-UGX2biltion Botanical 2.O Welfare and Operations - UGX 2.0 billion. UWEC Animal 2.O rgional Satellite Zoo in Mbarara Re 4.0 , Kasese to fund Constmction of Girls Student Hostel UWRTI 4.O additional wage for the new organizational structure. The current wage bill is insufficient to implement the broadened mandate of UWRTI after res To provide 1.0 o22 Ministry of Wildlife, Tourism and Antiquities and Guruguru Hot springs ment Action plan. The two sites are now at the Development phase, feasibility recommended Resettlement Amuru resettle of PAPs and Com 1.5 of 1SKm of electric fence from Kyambura, Omukiboodi to Omukakoni, Bunyarugutu, Rubirizi Construction Elizabeth National Park District tt7 Uganda Tourism Board (urB) ganda: This Film Project will facilitate more content development about Uganda Tourism Destination Hidden U 0.5 Vote 534 Uganda Consulate in Kenya, Mombasa r hosting of Uganda - Kenya Coast Tourism Conference in This is to cater fo 1.5 -A-- ,i^{\\tt- -ifTt ,\- 4t r N, *t ) t4 ti

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I wish to appreciate the Parish Development Model (PDM). At my age, I had never heard of a trillion going to the villages. It is a very big achievement and what we should do is to nurse this baby. A partnership with the Ministry of Local Government so that the money can reach every person. When he talks of the size of the parishes, I agree, some are bigger than others. That is why; I would think that, much as he wants money to administrate the cities, it is also good to know about our districts. There are bigger districts like Tororo, Kasese, Ntungamo, and Isingiro. If the minister could have his technical people go and see those districts, rather than people coming here on the floor - I am forming this district- And are not very informed. Two, about public service - unfortunately, the committee has said that Shs 76 billion is required for the Rationalisation of Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX). When we met the Minister of Works, he said he wanted Shs 174 billion for only, the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA). So, this thing you are taking in Hon. Muruli-Mukasa -

Mr Speaker, thank you. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, about a month ago, a moving island and hyacinth blocked Kazinga Channel, which we share with Rubirizi. It has hindered fishing and tourist business, inconveniencing the traders and the community. It is now a month and there is no action. We do not know why. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, the Government bought land in Kasese in Muhokya Town Council for the resettlement of people in the camp who have lived in the displaced people’s camp for four years. We are thankful that you give them some support, but when are we resettling them?

I request the Member to tell me who the representative was. This is because what I know is that we, together with you Members of Parliament, agreed that in order to rehabilitate the roads and maintain them, each district was given Shs 1 billion. Then the ministry, for Uganda National Roads Authority roads, or those trunk roads, was also given support. We gave emergency funding. Maybe they heard the emergency funding which we proposed to give the Ministry of Works and Transport, to work on the bridges that were washed away by floods in Mbale, Kigezi, Kasese, and other areas in the country. Remember the districts of Pakwach - I remember that place, and Hoima, Kafu River, and many others. Therefore, Mr Speaker, the Shs 200 billion we talked about in the Cabinet was for the Ministry of Works and Transport for the entire country, and not for Mbale.

11885 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 15 FEBRUARY 2024 manufacturers and increase the competitiveness of locally manufactured products within the region and beyond. The National industrial policy 2020 also seeks to build a fully integrated, competitive, high value and productive industrial sector through increased: 1. value addition of the local materials and products with comparative advantage for social economic transformation; 2. export of manufactured products by facilitating industries to increase production and match market demands in terms of both quality and quantity; 3. employment in the industrial sector through establishment and promotion of industries that create large-scale employment opportunities, ensuring inclusive growth and sustainable development; and 4. adoption of environmentally sustainable technologies by manufacturing subsectors. Currently, the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) operates eight public industrial and business parks namely; Kampala, (Namanve), Luzira, Bweyogerere, Jinja, Soroti, Mbale, Kasese, and Mbarara Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Park. The authority also supports three operational private industrial parks namely; Liao Shen Kapeeka, MMP Industrial Park Buikwe and Tian Tang Mukono, thereby making it eleven industrial and business parks across the country. Accordingly, on 4 June 2021, His Excellency the President while addressing Parliament on the State-of-the-Nation promised to supply electricity to industrial parks directly from some of the Government dams in a bid to reduce the end-user cost of electricity for manufacturers and increase competitiveness of locally manufactured products. In particular, His Excellency the President stated, and I quote, “The cost of electricity is distorted by mistakes committed by some of the actors without my knowledge… We shall see how to get out of this mistake. One solution that I have already ordered for the industrial parks is to supply power directly from some of the Government dams to them. I will not be deflected from that…” It is on this basis, and in line with the Rules of Procedure of Parliament, 2021, that the committee scrutinised the level of implementation of the aforementioned assurance and now presents this report to the august House. Mr Speaker, I am not going to read everything. The content of the report is uploaded so Members can read. I want to go direct to the scope. This report focuses on the following key areas: 1. implementation of the presidential directive; and 2. the state of power supply to the industrial parks. Methodology Documents were reviewed and they are stipulated in the report. There were meetings with the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development and there were field visits to selected industrial parks namely; 1. Mbale Industrial and Business Park; 2. Soroti Industrial and Business Park; and 3. Jinja Industrial and Business Park. Committee findings Implementation of the presidential directives In June 2021, His Excellency the President directed the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development that the cost of electricity manufactured had been reduced to $0.05 per unit and the industrial parks should get power directly from the Government operating hydro power stations of Karuma, Isimba, Nalubaale, Kira, without going through Umeme distribution network where it is technologically possible.

11736 MINISTERIAL STATEMENT Mr Speaker, you approved a loan here called Climate-Smart. Part of the infrastructure will help us to build what we call permanent border quarantine stations. You bring a cow from Tanzania and the security forces get you, it will be quarantined there to check if it is disease- free. If it is diseased, you take it back or we kill it there. If it is free, there will be diagnostic centres. I think the side of Isingiro, Kyotera, Rakai and those bordering South Sudan; Ntungamo and Kasese will have quarantine stations permanently there. Hon. Aza, on control of animals, I agree with you. The Animal Disease Act, which I think is being considered in the House has stringent measures for illegal animal movement and it will be enforced. Hon. Robina Rwakoojo, just to give you comfort, the 10 million doses we shall get will still be under the same policy arrangement of free distribution for now. The payment will come with the compulsory one, perhaps from July. We are aware of this. Honourable Member for Padyere, I reported by last time 36 districts. I need to check with our dashboard if there are any more that have added on. Actually, this unpopular quarantine is the solution to avoid further spread. I can tell you, if you are disciplined, one kraal can be sick and yours will not be sick if you have biosafety and control. I will check but my prayer is that we do not get more. Hon. Itungo, treatment and disease control sometimes conflict but it is as inevitable as that. However much I plan, if I do not have enough money, this compulsory bi-annual – I am sure when Hon. Ssempijja was a minister, he must have briefed this House that we needed to do it. We never got the budget. You know how there is very much scramble for money in the budget. That is why we now saying that let us enable the farmers to pay for the cost, which is at $5. Hon. Byanyima, there is a problem in Isingiro, the border district - you have a market there called Kamwema. Honourable colleagues, when we finish the issue of mass vaccination, we shall have to discuss the matter of cattle markets. You take a cow there, do not sell it, which in our local dialect is called “ Okudiba ” – meaning it has not been bought, then you return it home. It is one of the leading causes of the spread of animal diseases. Can there be something to replace cattle markets? I know it is something unpopular with the local governments, but let us openly debate it. Therefore, we will prioritise border districts with quarantine infrastructure to test the cows coming across and detect illegal movement. There are no roads to the border of Tanzania, I am not sure, but I hope Hon. Byanyima knows how he will sort that with the Ministry of Works and Transport. Hon. Ilukol, that I confused you by saying “100 per cent cost and 50 per cent.” No, I was explaining the two options I presented to the Cabinet. We were proposing cost sharing but the Cabinet said no, let it be 100 per cent because $5 or $4 in a year, someone with a cow can afford. Government will continue to pay for the cost of administration, fridges, transportation and the veterinary doctors who administer the drug. The worry from Hon. Philip Ilukol is the same worry I picked from Hon. Kajwengye. Do we have enough professionals? I am not worried about that because if we draw the vaccination calendar, every District Veterinary Officer (DVO) will mobilise the veterinary resources in the district to follow a calendar. They will say, “Today we are vaccinating sub-county X”. They will go and vaccinate and eventually recover their district. Where there are gaps – Mr Speaker, every sub-county should have a veterinary doctor. The Ministry of Local Government declared vacancies for extension staff of close to 4,000. The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development was waiting to finish rationalisation to fund them to have more extension staff. Therefore, I am not worried.

Thank you, honourable minister. It is referred to the Committee on Presidential Affairs. V: ON THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF PARLIAMENT IN THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2022/2023 a) On the state of health care service delivery in selected health facilities in Busoga, Elgon, Bukedi, Ankole and Buganda sub- regions; b) On the performance of Euros 10 million from the Government of the Republic of Italy to finance the Karamoja Infrastructure Development Phase II (KIDP II) under the Health Sector Development Plan; c) On the assessment of the impact of COVID-19 on HIV/AIDS services delivery in the country; d) On the report of the Auditor-General for the Financial Year 2020/2021; e) On the magnitude of road traffic injuries reporting to public hospitals in Uganda and the cost of treatment; f) On the petition on salary enhancement discrepancies for nurses and medical interns; g) On the field visits to West Nile and Northern Uganda to assess the scope of works executed by BMK Uganda Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health Services Improvement Project (URMCHIP) – LOT 6; h) On the Ministerial Policy Statement and the Budget Estimates for the Health Sector for Financial Year 2023/2024; i) On the field visit to Kasese to assess the status of Kilembe Mines Hospital; j) On Resolution to urge Government to prioritise investment in Health Centres IV; k) On Resolution to urge Government to prioritise interventions into the nodding disease syndrome in Northern Uganda; and l) On resolution to urge Government to prioritise and improve mental health and psychiatric care in Uganda. VI: THE ACTION-TAKEN REPORTS OF THE HEALTH SUB-SECTOR, FOLLOWING THE RESOLUTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF PARLIAMENT IN THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2022/2023

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. On Tuesday, you directed the minister to come and respond to specific issues that were raised here. Allow me to draw your attention to the closure of Bwera Teachers’ College. The only teaching college in Kasese, serving a population of 1.4 million people. Mr Speaker, you clearly directed him to come on Tuesday and accommodate that in his submission. I did not see him yesterday and I do not see him today. What is the way forward? That is a matter that is restless and pertinent to the people of Kasese.

11582 THE CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY (AMENDMENT) BILL, 2023 Kamwenge, Katakwi, Kasese, Kibaale, Kiboga, Kyenjojo, Mbale, Masindi, Mayuge, Mukono, Namalemba, Nakapiripirit – I am trying to remember Namalemba; my apologies – Pallisa, Rukungiri, Sironko, Wakiso and Soroti. Policy and control measures in place Our policy on FMD is for the Government to avail vaccines to farmers as a public good for reasons explained earlier. For many years, I think since during colonial times, the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries has been providing a budget item for procuring vaccines. This, however, has been insufficient and only covers 1.1 Per cent of the susceptible domestic animal population, contrary to the recommended at-least 80 per cent coverage, leaving the rest of the herd vulnerable. This explains why the country experiences repeated outbreaks. Although the Animal Diseases Act, CAP. 38, empowers the Commissioner of Animal Health to order for the destruction of affected animals under the “test and slaughter” approach, the country cannot afford to implement this provision of the law due to high compensation budget requirements. Mr Speaker, with the budget limitations alluded to above, our ministry adopted the ring vaccination methodology, targeting the locations with animals at high risk. When we buy a few vaccines annually, the budget we get gives us, on average, half a million doses. We distribute them to district veterinary officers of the most prone districts and those with outbreaks to carry out ring vaccination around the infected herds or kraals. We also institute quarantine and other measures in the affected and susceptible districts to prevent spread or disrupt transmission. Mr Speaker, our total susceptible animal herd that requires FMD vaccination, as per current estimates, is 44 million cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. This, therefore, requires an annual vaccine stock of 88 million doses for the bi- annual vaccination requirement at a cost of $2 per dose. The financial implication for this translates into $ 176 million. The Government has been studying this financial implication and notes the financial stress it would impose on the national Budget, if the requirement for the bi-annual mass vaccination is to be achieved. Accordingly, and with the guidance of the President, a Cabinet Paper is scheduled for discussion at the next Cabinet sitting on Monday, 5 February 2024 to consider a number of policy options, including cost-sharing by the farmer, since the cost per dose is affordable by most livestock farmers. I will revert to this House and the country on the final position adopted by Cabinet. In the meantime, my ministry has repurposed some of the budget you gave us, under the development budget, and managed to avail 2.56 million doses to the country through the district veterinary officers of 94 districts last year. The list is attached to this brief. It shows which district veterinary officers took what. Under the same arrangement, we have ordered for 2.3 million doses, expected in a few months to come. Mr Speaker, another challenge associated with procuring FMD vaccines is that they cannot be bought off-shelf, since they are biological; live organisms with a short shelf life. You order and they manufacture for you. This explains the delay in their supply chain. In the circumstances, it becomes inevitable for the Commissioner of Animal Health, who is the commander of the animal disease control chain in the country, to order or impose animal movement restrictions or what you know as quarantine in affected districts. Quarantines are unpopular and an inconvenience to people’s livelihoods yet again, inevitable as temporary measures to control further spread to alarming and uncontrollable epidemic levels. We can lose the whole herd, if we do not become strict. If the stakeholders can be disciplined and comply with the quarantine protocols, the MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS [Mr Tumwebaze]

Yes. Mr Speaker, thank you very much. Globally and this is applied nationally; it can also be applied locally – presidential directives - we have one President and as a country, we can only have one president at a time. However, there is this animal in the room or even in Uganda called “presidential directive”. Presidential directives form executive orders that have the force of law and effect an order of law. Mr Speaker, when our king had the opportunity to meet the President, he asked for an international airport, especially in Kasese and I followed - (Interjections) - yes, it is a procedural issue. The minister is here and he will be on the Floor on Tuesday. The same President gave a directive to the minister to work on the international bridge but as we speak, the minister or his colleagues, have not made it a point to go and check on the business of the bridge, therefore, as a country, we are losing revenue. Wouldn’t it be procedurally right that when the minister shows up on Tuesday, he also updates the nation because as a country, we are losing quite a lot of revenue and livelihood as far as the Kasese population is concerned. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. In September 2022, the Cotton Development Organisation (CDO) set an indicative price for the cotton season of 2023 at about Shs 2,300 as the buying purchasing price for a kilogram of cotton. Unfortunately, in most of our cotton- growing districts like Nebbi and Kasese, and other areas in Eastern and Western Uganda, farmers are crying due to the low purchase price at the selling point. In Nebbi District, for example, farmers are being offered prices as low as Shs 1,300 per kilogram and not being given any other choice. We have also noticed that there are actually few buyers of the cotton this time around in our districts. We do not know what is happening.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. Honourable minister, we have one Primary Teachers’ College (PTC) called Bwera Teachers’ College in the entire country. Kasese does not have a Government University resource. We still continue to urge the Government to consider Kasese. Mr Speaker, the reason why I am rising on this particular matter is that the Government closed the only Primary Teachers’ College in the district; a district with over 1.4 million people. I would like to urge the Minister to reconsider reversing, on affirmative action and dimension, the closure of the Bwera Teachers’ College given the fact that other places like Tooro, Ankole, and greater Bushenyi have PTCs and at the same time Government universities. Honourable minister, I kindly request that you wrap that in when you are making your submission because that is the cry of the entire population of Kasese as it relates to Bwera Teachers’ College. Thank you.

Okay. (Laughter) I need the source. Hon. Sarah Opendi has just reminded me about the directive of the President while he was in Kasese, about all roads linking the border posts. However, let the Minister of Works and Transport respond to this matter on Thursday during the Prime Minister’s Time and we follow it up. I was in Paidha while I was the Government Chief Whip. I reported the matter to the Cabinet and the President, indeed, talked about that area. That is a read that we must give priority. (Applause)

2. Hon. Joseph Ssewungu Gonzaga - Kalungu West County; 3. Hon. Stephen Sserubula - Lugazi Municipality; 4. Hon. Robert Ssekitoleeko - Bamunanika County; 5. Hon. Paul Nsubuga - Busiro County North; 6. Hon. Brenda Nabukenya – Luwero; 7. Hon. Hanifa Nabukeera Hussein – Mukono; 8. Hon. Peter Julius Emigu - Ochero County; 9. Hon. Florence Kabugho – Kasese; and 10. Hon. Nelson Okello - Maruzi North County. I beg to designate.

11240 THE OPPOSITION RESPONSE TO MINISTERIAL STATEMENT For instance, former RPC Enock Abaine, who shot and injured a journalist Ashraf Kasirye, was transferred and promoted to the E nvironmental P olice in Luzira. The same Abaine is known to be lethal, with blood stains on his hands. During the 2017 age limit rally held in Rukungiri, Abaine allegedly shot and killed a 19-year-old man. Instead of being interdicted and apprehended for his deeds, he was in 2018 transferred to Makerere University and promoted to Chief Security Officer. The famous 2011 “Walk to Work” Besigye tormentor, Gilbert Arinaitwe, was promoted from ASP to Superintendent of Police. The commander of the famous Kasese killings, Peter Elwelu was elevated from Brigadier to Major General and he even sits comfortably with us in Parliament. Madam Speaker, CMI Captain Bashir Mango who in January 2022 shot and caused the leg amputation of a traffic police officer, Robert Mukebezi, remains at large and the UPDF is hesitant to have him prosecuted. In fact, Defence Spokesperson, Brig. Gen Felix Kulayigye said that they were unable to track down Capt. Mango. Other examples on how impunity is promoted is that the minister’s claim that the police driver of truck No. UP 4841, constable No. 39975, Mr Atikuru Nasasira was apprehended are baseless as none of the relatives of Rita Nabukenya, whom the minister named “Nabukeera” was informed as required by principles of law and natural justice. The people who witnessed the accident were not interrogated for statements. Police did not go to Mulago Hospital where the deceased’s remains were conveyed. Nabukenya’s death was a matter of public interest that should have attracted ample press coverage, but there is no record of the said arrest of Atikuru Nasasira. Madam Speaker, that family never received information. They remain agitated that the Government neglected their plea to apprehend the killer of their daughter. Pre-trial Detention The norm of lengthy detention has become synonymous with the NRM Government, especially whenever an Opposition political activist or a Muslim terror suspect is arrested. We established that the reason behind these prolonged detentions is to enable the torture victims to have ample time for their physical injuries to heal. This was evidenced in the case of National Unity Platform (NUP) supporter in Kasese - Samuel Masereka - and the exiled Ugandan novelist Kakwenza. When their wounds sustained from torture recover, they are presented in court. Though the Government report attributes pre- trial detention to the limited human resource in the Judiciary, it is illogical and deceitful. We have witnessed situations where high- profile cases involving ministers and Government officials cited in the Karamoja iron sheets saga speedily tried and yet the same criminal justice system has many times tried Opposition activists after spending more than 48 hours in police custody and “safe houses”. For instance, Jamushid Kavuma and his colleagues who were abducted on 6 November 2022, were arraigned in Mwanga II court a month later in December 2022 after a writ of Habeas Corpus was filed; compelling security officers at CMI to panic and drop him at Old Kampala Police station. Relatedly, Sulaiman Jakana Nadduli was detained in September 2022 at Makindye Military Barracks for a prolonged time prior to his arraignment to court in Nakaseke. The detention, according to his family members, deprived him of access to his specialised medication which eventually caused his death. “Our findings established that 12 of the persons who were reported missing were arrested on suspicion of having committed several offences and were either released on

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Happy birthday. I seek some answers from the Rt Hon. Prime Minister. I thank you so much for the help you are giv - ing to Ntoroko due to those floods, especially when you visited us. As I speak, the seven sub - counties are submerged. The other time we gave a report, but the challenge was that we needed land to relocate those people; Kasese and Ntoroko were prioritised and Kasese got their land, but Ntoroko was left out. Rt Prime Minister, we have land in Ntoroko and people are willing to sell. The other time I was in your office and told you about it. When are we getting this land, so that these people are shifted from those areas? As I speak, if you see the pictures, our people are suffering. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

11106 MINISTERIAL STATEMENT Rwampanga, we constructed a school that had submerged in Nakasongola, we constructed a health centre III in Butiaba in Buliisa and we constructed another health centre in Ntoroko. On the same Shs 5 billion, we bought land in Kasese and we are currently constructing and upgrading a hospital there. That money was well spent. We used the army brigade to do these facilities.

Honourable members, can we get a statement on that fund? Can we know the conditions for one to get that money? How much money was put, where was it put and for which youth? There is a tendency of putting money on accounts and you only put it in Kampala and the youth in Kasese cannot access it.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. As you have correctly said, I read the statement on behalf of my senior minister and I correctly quoted the specific words. I would like to report as follows: I would be very happy, Madam Speaker, if you permitted me to bring a statement to highlight where we came from, where we are today, where we will be tomorrow and the need for the support of the honourable Members of Parliament to back up this Pamoja bid, which gave us the hosting rights of the AFCON 2027. Madam Speaker, you have correctly stated - and I would like to put it on record that the Ministry of Education and Sports has a plan to construct regional stadia. The Ministry of Education and Sports is aware of the presidential commitments according to the pledges of constructing stadia in Akii-Bua and Buhinga. I also would like to say that this AFCON is a project. I would be very happy if Parliament supported the ministry’s plan to get resources to have this project implemented to the letter. That helps us as a country to improve the infrastructural development of sports in Uganda. I would like to call upon you, honourable colleagues, that nobody from Government is refusing to have the construction of stadia in the areas that I read here on behalf of my senior minister. All that is lacking are the specific conditions in this bid, which we are meeting as a country, called Uganda, jointly with Kenya and Tanzania. We cannot, at this particular time, attempt to get out of these conditions because we risk losing the hosting rights as a country. My question to you, honourable colleagues, is -the plan to construct regional stadia where we all come from - I come from Teso. For God’s sake, I need Oligoi to be constructed, but I do not have money. I have been to Bushenyi, Kasese and Buhinga; I have been everywhere where there is a need for this infrastructure to be invested. The challenge is that this bid as of now does not permit us to have this done at the same time. Unless you want to tell me that the Government should take away some projects and we specifically concentrate on this. Madam Speaker, as I conclude- I have just come out of a meeting for one project. We are going to construct a state-of-the-art indoor arena in Lugogo. The contractor has just submitted a design project and a structural plan for that state-of-the-art indoor arena in Lugogo. I have just met them. They will be coming back next week in line with what we have agreed with them. As a Government, I need your support for that specific project for the purpose of developing sports infrastructure in the country. Thank you.

Back to your communication, Madam Speaker. I thank you for talking about the patching of roads in Kampala by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). In the same way, in the countryside, there is a lot of patching on the face but the rest of the body is unwashed. When they patch areas in Kampala where the guests are going to pass, they leave behind the other streets and roads untouched. Likewise, the districts which are in corners that are not on highways - from Kampala, Masaka, Mbarara, Bushenyi, Ishaka, and Kasese, there is some attention. For a district in a corner like Buhweju, there is virtually no road to talk about. Be it a Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) road, a district road, a community road, and even the bulungi bwansi , which is done by the natives; there is virtually no road. No one should tell us about the funds released by Uganda Road Fund. They are too meagre to cause any effect in Buhweju. I would like to make an appeal that the districts in corners - not only Buhweju, but those like Buhweju - should get affirmative action. I beg to move.

I think you even bought land for Kasese -

Yes, Kasese and we were also constructing and upgrading Rukoki Health Centre IV in Kasese. That money was also supposed to be used to replace the already flooded area of -

10578 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT rules give you a leeway; I am not the alpha and omega. I know that, as honourable colleagues, you have a duty to deliver to your constituents; for them to see you behaving in a certain manner or to have delivered “ABCD”, but I have a duty to protect the dignity of this House, and I will ensure that is done. However, I request you, honourable colleagues, to accommodate each other, because it is in Parliament where we can accommodate each other. I will give you time to speak, as long as your content is in line with the rules, and to bring your issues here because it is provided for. The day you stop accommodating each other, as a House, we shall have lost it. Thank you. The Leader of the Opposition had requested me to say something. By the way, I forgot about the issue of procedure and all that. Now, whenever you rise up on a point of procedure - I had introduced it, and honourable colleagues said it was too hard and rough - procedure should be about proceedings that are going on at that time. So, whenever you raise a point of procedure, kindly start with the rule that is being affected by the ongoing proceedings. I have said that my communication will not be debated because it is not provided for, and you have requested me to follow the rules - I am still communicating; so you cannot raise a point of procedure. Honourable colleagues, as most of you might have seen, last night, the country experienced a tragedy, whereby some tourists and their guide were attacked in Kasese, around the Katwe area, in Queen Elizabeth National Park. It is a very sad moment, especially for a sector which was recovering after being hit hard by COVID-19. People want to come and see the marvel of our beauty, as a country, but all of a sudden this happened. I know it will affect the tourism sector, but the Government, indeed, will need to reassure the people of the safety of our visitors in the country. We shall give all the necessary support, as a House, and we do hope that with this incident, as a country, we do not lose focus and declare ourselves extremely insecure. I have seen it happening in other countries, but the way we handle it as a country matters most. So, I request, honourable colleagues, that we observe a minute of silence for our visitors, our guide and others who might have died in this incident. (Members rose and observed a moment of silence.)

citizens were getting the expected services. In addition, the Auditor General assessed if the works/services were delivered at reasonable costs. -t ..-- I \- 1 }" c ,(@ N o Activity details Total expenditur e (UGxf Summary of findings Conclusion regarding senrice delivery Management Response \( ,} *. !4 1 UHT Tooro Dairy 346,080,OO 0 (3O% of 1,153,600, 0o0) I undertook inspection of the site on 18th October 2022 and noted the following; The project was supposed to have been completed by 30th September 2022. o The UHT line that was installed was not operational due to lack of power. The existing transformer and the (42I$A) generator provided by the beneficraries could not handle the new UHT line. r The water treatment unit of the beneficiary was of smaller quantity (SOOltrs) and not of good grade, yet the steriliser delivered was of 20o0ltrs These gaps affected the functionality of the UHT hne and have affected service delivery. a . The utilities for this project particularly the power and water were supposed to be handled by the beneficiaries. r The beneficianes had engaged UMEME on the rssue of the transformer which indicated that power was generally unstable during the day and therefore the plant should be run during the night until the issue is resolved. The beneficiaries have however committed to buy a new generator with the required capacity. . The beneficiary was in the process of procuring an appropriate water treatment unit and associated water reservoir of minimum capacity s,000L 2 Civil works for five (5) grain storage buildings -Moto United Farmers (Kasese) -Nyakera Twimuky e Group (I(atigwen da) 799,5O4,96 5 (50% of 1,555,93O, 82s) Inspection of two of the five grain stores that was supposed to be constructed between lSth - 22nd, October 2O22 showed the following; The initial contract completion date was supposed to be 30th Aprrl 2022 which had been extended several times to 30th December 2022. r The anticipated services from the grain storage buildings auill be delayed. a o Three facilities (2 in Kitagwenda & one in Kasese) had reached practical completion and were ready for handover while the remarning two were estimated at 8Oo/o completion level and were expected to be fully completed by 30th December 2022. r In Kasese particularly Motomoto site the Contractor has had to re-construct the \!-s /u/( a

At the time of inspectron October 2022, none of the structures had been completed. At the site in Kasese, the cerling of the office on the grain storage buiiding had been badly damaged by rain due to delays in roofirng. The grain drying slab that was built had been greatly damaged by running water, casting doubt on the quality of works The site had no caretaker and appeared to be abandoned. a a a ceiling and the drying slab that were affected by the heavy rains at the time arising from delay in roofing. r The contractor was rnstructed to ensure mobilization (of personnel, materials and equipment) is done for all sites and expedite the works t'-' - 3 l) CMI works for five (5) malze milling structure s and two feed mill structure S -Moto United Farmers (Kasese) - -{ibr.^.. quality millers (Kasese) Nyakyera Twimuky e group (Kitagwen da) 1,609,548, 558 (94o/o of 1,714,624, s12) Three of the seven structures for the maize and feed mills were inspected and below are the findings; . The contracts were completed on 28ttr Feb 2022 Atl the three structures had been completed but yet to be handed over to the benehciaries There is no transformer available to supply power to the building yet the structure is for milling equipment powered by 3 phase. The torlet fittings were not yet installed. a a a . The utilisation of the structure will be delayed due to absence of the power source (transformer ). This could also delay the delivery and installation of the milling equipment and hence delays in service delivery. a ^,,..\ rilPz r Management had communicated to Mrnistry of Energl and Mineral Development the need for power connection to the milling facilities to leverage on the grant for power extension for agroindustry under the Ministry. r The Contractor was supposed to install the VIP latrine fittings, specifically the hand wash basin, soap and tissue dispensers upon handover. 4 Civil works for 1,L14,749, 221 (54o/o of I inspected two of the seven coffee huller I The utilisation of the I a o Fencing was not part of the scope works for the t.t (((il| \ '-(rP 6 -Tsf O..----Cl -*(, ,./ti i, ;I /\! ' t-'' ,\1, a

Thank you, Mr Speaker. This honourable Parliament, two months back, directed the Minister of Internal Affairs to bring a comprehensive statement without any contradiction about the attacks on the UPDF in Kasese. Up to now, the same has never been brought. Is the minister proceeding well to give priority to the recent issue of human rights, leaving aside the statement, which was earlier asked by Parliament? Is he proceeding right?

Honourable colleagues, if I remember very well that, last Thursday, the Prime Minister said that they have provided for it; so, they will get for the new districts. I remember she also said that after they have given the new districts, they will also look at the big districts. She gave the examples of Wakiso, Ntungamo, Kasese – you know, districts of that size. However, let us, indeed, keep pushing for it and the minister is going to update us.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, all the former counties in Uganda have turned into districts, except 19, which are in Ntungamo, Isingiro, Kasese and elsewhere. At the moment, we have funds because all districts were given an extra Shs 1 billion and these districts have been having difficulty maintaining their roads. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, when are we getting extra road units so we can be able to maintain roads in those bigger districts? Thank you.

Mr Speaker, the President guided that we give all new districts road equipment and thereafter, districts like Ntungamo, Kasese, Wakiso - the big districts will be considered next.

Honourable members, it is true that we lost people due to floods in May this year in Kisoro, Rubanda, Rukungiri and part of Kasese. The President, in his wisdom – As you know, he is a caring President - (Applause) – provided support to the relatives of the people who lost their lives; Shs 5 million and Shs 1 million to those who were injured in the process. So, he chose a number of ministers with my guidance and we delivered that support. Mr Speaker, the number was overwhelming, as you may know. We still have a few whose identity - and the relatives were not yet identified at the time the burial ceremonies of those people were conducted. Therefore, I request the Member to help us with the nitty- gritty of those people who lost their lives and were not assisted. The President is helping and he will definitely care.

When I retire, that is where I am going. So, I need to fight for the sector. (Laughter) Honourable colleagues, many of you will join me. Hon. Oguzu Lee had suggested something to me; that when they appear before the committee, they should appear in the regions so that it is not just a Kampala affair. I will detail that in the terms of reference when I am forwarding the petition. Thank you. Honourable colleagues, in the Public Gallery this afternoon, we have Speakers from some of the western region districts. They include the Speakers of Rwampara, Kiruhura, Kazo, Ntungamo, Sheema, Ibanda, Hoima, Bundibugyo, Buhweju, Kagadi, Kakumiro, Rukiga, Mbarara, Kikuube and Kasese. They have come to observe how we are running the House and they will be advising the Deputy Speaker, later on, on how to run the House better. Thank you for coming, friends.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. It is great to have you back in the House; we have been missing you for a long time. Mr Speaker, tomorrow is a great day for the people of Kasese. Our community is already on the ground to receive the King of the Rwenzururu, His Majesty Omusinga Charles Wesley Mumbere Irema-Ngoma. As a royal guard number one, I am very excited and I cannot wait. Mr Speaker, here is the deal. First of all, on behalf of the Rwenzururu people, allow me express my deepest gratitude to Government, and specifically to the President of the Republic of Uganda, for having facilitated the release of our king. I know, Mr Speaker, your office, including the Rt Hon. Speaker, Anita Among and all the elders including Hon. Muruli Mukasa and a lot of peace-loving and law-abiding citizens have worked all together to make tomorrow happen. Mr Speaker, my prayers: we all know what happened and I do not want to rewind a sad story. Back home in the community, we do not have what we used to call a palace and my prayer this afternoon is to ask the Government and this Parliament that in the next financial year, I ask colleagues to support us in trying to put a voice and a formal request to allow the palace to be constructed by the Government of Uganda. Number two, tomorrow, we are receiving the king, but he is going to be hosted in a subject’s house. That is unfamiliar with kings. Allow me, Mr Speaker, to again put a request before colleagues and to your leadership to ensure that a palatial home is constructed for the king. Everybody is invited to Kasese, and I will be so happy if it pleases you, that many of you join us in a Kasese to give the king a grand reception. Mr Speaker, I want to appreciate you for the opportunity. Thank you very much.

I thank Hon . Atkins for informing Parliament about the release of our king, His Majesty Wesley Mumbele and I congratulate the people of Kasese and the entire region. I thank you for welcoming him back in such a way whereby you are organising a wonderful celebration for him. The kingdom can write to the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development and put their request whereby the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development will put it to the concerned ministry, that is the Ministry of Works –

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank my colleague, Hon. Atkins Katusabe, for raising matters relating to the kingdom and particularly, the king. Hon. Katusabe is a very good man and I find him extremely decent. In his sense of decency, he found it extremely difficult to stand up to the Prime Minister and state that the release of the king, was held incommunicado for more than four years. There were subjects murdered in cold blood, those incarcerated without charge for more than four years, and those who died in incarceration without justice. Now that this matter has come up, with a bit of warmth relating to the return of the king to his people, this Parliament is a House of neutrality. But Parliament is the firewall between the people and an eternally criminal state. States by their nature are criminal, if you understand statecraft. And when you have Parliaments, they must stand between the people and the criminal state. Mr Speaker, will it please you to ask of the Prime Minister to come to the House and make an account to the country how matters of justice have been handled in this community; that the return of the king is not a ritual, but a restoration of the sense of dignity of the people of Kasese; an understanding that when there are misunderstandings in this country, the gun can never be the solution. Will it please you, Mr Speaker, to instruct the Prime Minister, at the return of the King, as a sense of identifying with the people, to make a statement here on the sense of justice? I so pray. (Applause)

Thank you. Now, LOP, you got me scared when you said, Hon. Katusabe is a very decent man, which is why he did not open the wounds. When you started opening the wounds, I said, “Is LOP indecent?” – (Laughter) – yet, I know he is very decent. Please, Hon. Alioni, take your seat. Honourable colleagues, the people of Kasese are celebrating. I do not want us to cause any anxiety in their celebrations. LOP, you can raise this matter any time, but I think let us give them a chance to first celebrate. They went through a court process and all that and whatever they agreed upon - let us first give them a chance to celebrate. Otherwise, these issues can be handled. I know Hon. Atkins Katusabe is among the people who were very tough on these issues. When you see him speaking this way, know that he is raising the voice of his people. So, let Parliament not overshadow their celebrations by directing investigations into what went wrong and all that. But, we can look into that any time. Yes, Hon. Sarah Opendi.

Madam Speaker, the Markets Act was assented to on 22 May this year. We have started with some pilot - Because we are talking about different types of markets. At Bwera in Kasese, we are looking at a cattle market. In Kabale, we are looking at a market where vendors are already in the stalls. In Masaka, we are looking at a fully constructed market. However, we are trying to operate the law looking at how to resettle the vendors. In the next two months, we should be able to come up with regulations that take into account the various pilots we have looked at.

Honourable minister, you will respond on Thursday. Do not just respond to what has been said; come up with a comprehensive report to that effect. MR MOSES ALEPER (MRM, Chekwii County (Kadam), Nakapiripirit): Thank you, Madam Speaker. I just want to react to your communication on security. By its very definition, security is a state of being free from danger and threat. When we heard of the threats on the security within big gatherings in this city, I think everyone stood quite alert and felt what it was. Of course, when you know that someone wants to cause some injury or pain to the other, it definitely makes you think that it can lead to the loss of lives. I just want to react by echoing that, these types of security threats are normally raised in some parts of this country very far from Kampala. I implore every Ugandan that these bomb threats are just like any other security threat. Even if they are mentioned in Kasese, Nebbi or other parts of the country, they should be treated with utmost attention. Therefore, whether it is a bomb threat or whatever threat, as long as it is a threat to the life of an individual, it should be treated quite seriously the way the attention has been given to this particular one. Thank you.

10135 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 5 S EPTEMBER 2023 Most of the speakers have given the impression that the scare is only in Kampala. I would like to report that even in Kasese, as I speak, the border market at Mpondwe has been relocated today because it is a Tuesday and a Friday market. Security has taken precaution to relocate it because there was a bomb scare in the market. I would like to appeal to the security organs and the Government to widen the net. Terrorists may not only be in Kampala; they could be in those areas where we least suspect them to attack. I thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I am going to liaise with the Member of Parliament from Kasese and ensure that we get a report from the Chief Administrative Officer, who is the Chairman of the District Disaster Committee, and we should be able to respond. Thank you.

9951 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 23 AUGUST 2023 the legal issues, gaps and challenges that continue to stifle operations under the Uganda Railways Corporation Act, as well as the issues curtailing the implementation of the Act over the 31-year period since its enactment. Adopt guidelines for the railway sub-sector to cover safety, security, infrastructure financing, qualified staff and quality services. The development of the railway infrastructure: The committee observed that a well-developed railway network contributes to the socio- economic development of a country as it enables connectivity, boosts trade and provides access to workplaces, healthcare services and leisure activities, among others. The development of a dependable railway transport infrastructure facilitates the mobility and accessibility of a country’s factors of production and at the same time reduces environmental degradation. This ultimately would boost and enhance trade, tourism and improve the general standards of living. The committee notes that over the past decades, the Government accorded high priority to road transport over rail transport infrastructure development. Cargoes that would ordinarily be transported on rail lines are now routed on the road network. In essence, this has contributed to high costs of doing business as well as increasing the road maintenance needs and costs. The committee was informed that limited investment in the railway network is attributed to high initial investment costs needed to set up a railway investment and management system. The East African Community undertook to invest and set up the Standard Gauge Railway, which is expected to improve regional connectivity. Whereas, the Standard Gauge Railway is a good investment, member states will still need the Metre Gauge Railway to complement the Standard Gauge Railway for purposes of last mile connectivity. In light of this, the committee noted the need to rehabilitate the existing Metre Gauge Railway lines across the country in places where the Standard Gauge Railway has not been planned to be routed. The committee was informed that it is the wish of the Uganda Railways Corporation to carry out serious development of the railway network so as to reduce the traffic burden on the existing highway roads that are narrow. This, however, requires more funding to be able to refurbish the remaining railway lines of Kampala, Kasese, Tororo-Gulu, Pakwach, which is not available at the moment. The committee was further informed that the Government of Uganda contracted a Spanish contractor to manufacture concrete slippers for part of the railway line under rehabilitation. The same company has established a railway training school located at Nalukolongo to train and equip the Ugandan engineers with railway engineering knowledge. This implies that at the end of the contract period, the company will close the business and go back. The committee recommends that: i. Government fast-tracks the implementation of the Standard Gauge Railway to enable Uganda to move in tandem with the East African partner states. ii. At the end of the contract period of Imathia Construction Company, Government invests in concrete slippers production plant, fully equipped and owned by the Government of Uganda, to facilitate production of concrete slippers for rehabilitation and construction of other railway lines across the country. In conclusion, the proposal by the Government to borrow up to UA 125.16 million equivalent to £150 million from the African Development Fund and UA 54.17 million equivalent to £65 million from the African Development Bank for the refurbishment of the Kampala-Malaba

Honour - able colleagues, I know we have a farm for marijuana in Kasese. So, it is not only Khat ; there are others. So, we specify one plant to be catered for in the transitional clause - we should make it general because we gave all of them a chance to apply for a license. So, the transitional clause should be general. Committee chairperson, did you provide for the transitional clause in the Bill? We need to know that because we have some plants, which are banned but are being planted under licence. So, you need a transitional clause. Hon. Muwanga Kivumbi, the issue is that we need to cover all those already -

Mr Chairperson, I have been to a licensed farm of marijuana in Kasese and it is strictly prohibited from the public unless you have been authorised. It is properly fenced and they grow the marijuana for commercial purposes. I think we should not allow, as you have guided, our cattle keepers to just plant those two, three, four, five plants. That is where the leakage and abuse will be happening and the youth in Bitereko getting drunk. We have the law on the National Drug Authority (NDA), which lists drugs, both human drugs and veterinary drugs, to be used in the country. I do not think these plants are listed on the authorised drugs. I just want to appeal to those from the cattle keeping communities that we should be strict and disallow even those few plants, which people keep in their farms because the animals can still be treated using other drugs, which the law prescribes. Thank you.

9724 SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT Madam Speaker, in a session such as this, as a Parliament, we have to focus on two critical and fundamental concepts. Concept number one is effectiveness. Effectiveness in legislation is doing the right thing. Concept number two in this scale of legislation would be efficiency and efficiency in this kind of environment will be doing the right thing right. We have a crisis on our hands. Everybody here represents a community. I come from Kasese and we have a security situation there. There are young men and women that are below 18 years and do not have national IDs and yet security demands that if you cannot identify yourself, you are supposed to go for questioning before the police or the military. The only administrative unit that can authenticate these individuals in terms of identity are the LC systems yet here we are in a situation where a letter from an LC does not legally have a binding force. I think the country is crying out for leadership and we have to provide that leadership today. As I take my seat, this is about a country and its citizens. In that seat that you are holding, Madam Speaker, your word is the last word. Madam Speaker, generations will hold us accountable: there was a law and a legal framework - did you follow the law? My proposal, as I take my seat, is: can we get a win-win situation? This House has the preserve to appropriate. If the challenge we have on our finger has something to do with resources, this very House can direct the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, who is in the House, that these resources –(Interjections) - can I take the information?

And they were together in Kasese. (Laughter)

9622 PRIME MINISTER’S TIME impairments. His prayer is that I update the House on the matter. Madam Speaker, Section 15(A) of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2020, provides for deployment, training and use of sign language, and tactile sign language interpreters in all public institutions, and this includes the courts of law. The revised National Policy on Persons with Disabilities, 2023, under priority area 2(ii), of the strategies and actions, enhancement of communication in different formats is emphasised, and sign language is explicitly mentioned. The Judiciary has got one sign language interpreter deployed at Buganda Road Court, Kampala. The sign language interpreter was recruited purposely to assist persons with hearing impairments. Since the cases involving persons with hearing impairments are very few, the sign language interpreter is facilitated to go to any other court where there are such cases, to assist as required and there are no complaints. Apart from sign language interpreters, the Judiciary employs more than 348 court interpreters who are deployed in various courts across the country, to assist interpretation of court proceedings. For example, the Family Division Court, Buganda Road Court, Mityana Chief Magistrates Court, Mbarara High Court, Koboko Chief Magistrates Court, Moyo Chief Magistrates Court, Kasese Chief Magistrates Court, etcetera. Number two, Hon. Kevin Kaala, the District Woman Representative, Pallisa, raised a concern on the heavy downpour on Thursday, 28 April 2022 in Pallisa District that led to floods that washed away Kaboloi, Ometai and Otuti Bridges that link Pallisa to Ngora District. She asked: “Can the Prime Minister inform the House on interventions instituted by the Government to remedy the situation?” Madam Speaker, the Government, through the Ministry of Works and Transport, on 4 August 2022 provided Pallisa District with 32 meters of length and 2.1 meters of diameter metal culverts wide and 40 pieces of gabion boxes two by one by one (two meters wide, one- meter-deep and one-meter width). The ministry also advised the district to write to the Uganda Road Fund for emergency funding to allow maintenance works on Kaboloi Bridge. The Ministry on 26 April 2023 held a meeting with the honourable Members of Parliament for Gogonyo and Kibaale Counties after the temporary intervention by the district. As a result, on 4 May 2023, the ministry inspected Kaboloi Bridge with a view of carrying out major works to restore connectivity. Madam Speaker and colleagues, the ministry undertook to install the metal culverts to restore connectivity. The provision of Shs 40 million was made in fourth quota of the Financial Year 2022/2023 under project number 1558 for intervention, particularly, installation of culverts as a means of restoring connectivity. These works are expected to commence in July this year. This financial year, Government has prioritised rural bridges under infrastructure development to enable the ministry to reconstruct dilapidated bridges and construct new bridges that are currently timber-made - temporary bridges in the districts, urban and community access roads network across the country that are estimated to be 1,636 bridges. Hon. Musherure Shartsi Nayebare Kutesa, Member of Parliament Mawogola – (Interruption)

Madam Speaker, Hon. Musherure raised a matter concerning the need for Government to stress its commitment to road safety through implementation of the existing rules and regulations. Her prayer was that she wanted me to update the House on the timelines for approval of Traffic and Road Safety Regulations. I had highlighted a number of regulations and Members have them on Alfresco. The answers are almost similar to what we have just resolved. Therefore, I request that you allow me to go to another question. Hon. Dr Ayume Charles, Member of Parliament for Koboko said that there is a high number of road traffic injuries reporting to public hospitals in Uganda and increasing cost of treatment. His prayer was whether Government can update the House on the intervention to reduce road carnage. It is almost the same; I feel the answers I gave are similar to what we discussed with the Speaker this morning. I, therefore, request that you allow me to go to another question. Honourable members can read on their iPads because we have uploaded this. Hon. Atkins Katusabe, Member of Parliament for Bukonzo County West, Kasese District. He raised a matter of concern about the floods that ravaged parts of Kasese District, submerging houses and sweeping away bridges and the threat of a resultant crack on a massive rock. His prayer was that the Prime Minister gives a status update and interventions made. Madam Speaker, Government is aware of the above concern. Through the Ministry of Works and Transport and the Uganda National Roads Authority, Government undertook short-term, medium and long-term interventions in Kasese. Among the short-term actions, the ministry has to date constructed three cable footbridges. That is Kyabayenze Cable Foot Bridge on Lhubiriha River, of Mihani, Karichadi Cable Foot Bridge and Ruboni-Kyambogho Cable Foot Bridge. Further, the ministry is doing protection of River Nyamugasani eroded banks using force on account. In addition, the ministry rehabilitated Mubuku-Karusandara Prison Road is measuring 12 out of 22.4 kilometres affected by floods. The Ministry of Works and Transport also extended additional support in form of metal culverts and equipment to Kasese District Local Government to enable it to reinstate the damaged infrastructure. Clearing of flood debris on the affected roads, repair of damaged bridges, protection works and desilting of blocked drainage structures, has been done. In terms of medium and long-term actions, the Ministry of Works and Transport designed and is constructing Karujumba Bridge connecting Kyarumba and the Kisinga subcounties. The structures consider the climate effects already experienced in the region. The Government through UNRA is constructing a number of bridges that are climate resilient, including: i) Nyamugasani Bridge (Lower) on Rwentare-Katwe-Katojo Road, ii) Kyanya Bridge on Mobuku-Maliba- Kyanya-Ibanda Road, iii) Isango Bridge on Bwera-Kithoma-Kiraro Road, iv) Rwembyo and Kajwenge Bridges on K i n y a m a s e k e - K i s i n g a - K y a r u m b a - Kibirizi Road, v) Kanyampara Bridge on Kinyamaseke- Kisinga-Kyarumba-Kibirizi Road, all of which are ongoing.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I am sorry for my persistence in asking for this procedural matter. Leadership is the ability to identify a problem and prescribe a solution before the problem translates into a crisis. Madam Speaker, on 12 June 2023, the United States Department issued a travel advisory of a possibility of a terrorist attack in our country. Sadly, on 16 June 2023, Kasese had a tragedy. This very month, on 2 June, the UK Government issued another travel advisory warning the citizens of this country of an imminent serious indiscriminate terrorist attack that could unload in a month; everything else can wait, but not human life. My procedural issue is, is this House in a position to get assurance from Government of Uganda, specifically our security, that yes, we have absorbed this intelligence information and we are doing everything within our reach to scale up our capabilities in terms of rapid response, hardware and software capabilities to avert any terrorist attacks? Personally, as somebody who comes from the Kasese community, I would not want what happened in Kasese to occur anywhere else in our country. That is my procedural issue.

9457 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 6 JULY 2023 On relocating the people, the Office of the Prime Minister, in Financial Year 2021/2022, bought land in Kasese. That land was disputed and they petitioned the IGG’s Office. The IGG has cleared and we can now get some of those people who are distressed to that piece of land.

R.EPORT OF THE COMMITTTE ON PIIBLIC ACCOUNTS (COMMISSIONS, STATUTORY AUTHORITIES & STATE ENTERPRISESI ON THE REPORT OF AUDITOR GENERAL ON THE FINANCIIT STATEMENTS OF NATIONAL MEDICAL STORES FOR FINANCIAL YEAR ENDED 3OTX JUNE, 2022 I s/N I{AME CONSTITUENCY PARTY SIGIiIATURI I Hon. Ssenyonyr Joel - C / Person Nakawa West NUP 7w "-*4\ 2 Hon. Akello Lucy - D/CP DWR Amuru FDC lEmutr 3 Hon. Lagen Davrd Agago County NRM 4 Hon, Mbwatekamwa Gafta Igara West County NRM 5 Hon. Afoyochan Esther DWR Zombo NRM 6 NRM 7 Hon. Anywar Rrcky Rrchard Hon. Acan Joyce Okeny Agago West Countlr PWD Natronal NRM 8 Hon. Achan Judrth Peace DWR Nwoya NRM 9 Hon. Akampulrra Prossy Mbabazr DWR Rubanda NRM 10 11 Hon. Atwijukrre Dan Kimosho Hon. Bakkabulindr Charles Kazoo County Workers Rep NRM NRM 0: t2 Hon. Gafabusa Rrchard Muhumuza Bwer-mba County NRM '-/.- .t' 13 Hon. Mugabi Muzaale Martin Buzaaya Counlv NRM t4 Hon SSekrkuubo Theodore Lwemryaga Counlv NRM Hon Abrgaba Cuthbert Mirembe 15 KrbaLe County NRM Hon, Okumu Cabnel t6 Okoro Countv NRM Kasese Munrcrpalrty NRM t7 Hon Kambale Fengo (New ) -.::'b

9339 THE ELEVENTH P ARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY , 4 J ULY 2023 years, as large part of the population joins the money economy. The industrialisation drives across the country have brought about positive results. There are eight Government-owned industrial parks, which are operational in Namanve, Luzira, Bweyogerere, Soroti, Mbale, Jinja, Mbarara and Kasese. The industrial parks in Karamoja and Koboko will soon commence. In addition, there are three industrial parks operating under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement. The total number of factories is now 4,008, employing 150,685 Ugandans, largely the youth, who form part of the biggest percentage of our population. This is a reflection of socio-economic transformation. The President emphasised the Parish Development Model that will accelerate socio- economic growth, where 39 per cent of the households in the non-money economy will be moved to the money economy. This approach will organise and deliver public and private sector interventions for wealth creation and employment generation. His Excellency the President launched a wealth and jobs creation initiative for those who found it difficult to access financing through banks called “ Emyooga .” This initiative has been successful in mobilising, especially the youths and women in the informal sector into productive self-employment by increasing their skills, acquiring equipment and accessing affordable capital. As at the end of December 2022, seed capital amounting to Shs 258 billion had been disbursed to 6,714 Emyooga SACCOs and Shs 1,000,000 to individual beneficiaries. His Excellency the President indicated that tourism has had a significant potential for the economy. The sector has registered key achievements. For example, it employs 1.5 million Ugandans along the entire tourism value chain and contributes 6.7 per cent of the GDP. In the year 2022, Uganda’s national parks hosted 367,869 visitors; leisure and holiday visitors stayed longer and the wildlife populations have increased. These numbers have grown and increased Uganda’s Government’s focus on infrastructure and marketing. The President stressed that social metamorphosis takes place when societies undergo modernisation. In modernised countries, a small percentage of people are involved in agriculture. A country must be supported to move to value addition and manufacturing. Thus, in order to build a knowledge-based economy using advanced scientific knowledge, the President called upon Members of Parliament support to Kiira Motors to get moving so that the production of automobiles becomes part of the economy. The President commented on the Anti- Homosexuality Bill and commended the Parliament of Uganda for passing it. He raised the substantive points that should be used to explain Uganda’s position. His Excellency the President outlined the economic priorities of the Government in the next financial year, which include peace and security of persons and property, effective implementation of PDM and Emyooga , acquisition of right-of-way for Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), investing in small-scale solar- powered irrigation to address climate change and food security, constructing transmission lines and power substations, maintenance of both tarmac and murram roads, development of industrial parks, support medical schools and scientific-based research, expediting the infrastructure of oil and gas, capitalising UDB and UDC and supporting ICT. In conclusion, let me take this opportunity to thank His Excellency the President, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for steering the NRM government to expand the economic base of the country and a strong foundation that has been built for rapid economic growth and socio-economic transformation. I beg to move.

9339 THE ELEVENTH P ARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY , 4 J ULY 2023 years, as large part of the population joins the money economy. The industrialisation drives across the country have brought about positive results. There are eight Government-owned industrial parks, which are operational in Namanve, Luzira, Bweyogerere, Soroti, Mbale, Jinja, Mbarara and Kasese. The industrial parks in Karamoja and Koboko will soon commence. In addition, there are three industrial parks operating under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement. The total number of factories is now 4,008, employing 150,685 Ugandans, largely the youth, who form part of the biggest percentage of our population. This is a reflection of socio-economic transformation. The President emphasised the Parish Development Model that will accelerate socio- economic growth, where 39 per cent of the households in the non-money economy will be moved to the money economy. This approach will organise and deliver public and private sector interventions for wealth creation and employment generation. His Excellency the President launched a wealth and jobs creation initiative for those who found it difficult to access financing through banks called “ Emyooga .” This initiative has been successful in mobilising, especially the youths and women in the informal sector into productive self-employment by increasing their skills, acquiring equipment and accessing affordable capital. As at the end of December 2022, seed capital amounting to Shs 258 billion had been disbursed to 6,714 Emyooga SACCOs and Shs 1,000,000 to individual beneficiaries. His Excellency the President indicated that tourism has had a significant potential for the economy. The sector has registered key achievements. For example, it employs 1.5 million Ugandans along the entire tourism value chain and contributes 6.7 per cent of the GDP. In the year 2022, Uganda’s national parks hosted 367,869 visitors; leisure and holiday visitors stayed longer and the wildlife populations have increased. These numbers have grown and increased Uganda’s Government’s focus on infrastructure and marketing. The President stressed that social metamorphosis takes place when societies undergo modernisation. In modernised countries, a small percentage of people are involved in agriculture. A country must be supported to move to value addition and manufacturing. Thus, in order to build a knowledge-based economy using advanced scientific knowledge, the President called upon Members of Parliament support to Kiira Motors to get moving so that the production of automobiles becomes part of the economy. The President commented on the Anti- Homosexuality Bill and commended the Parliament of Uganda for passing it. He raised the substantive points that should be used to explain Uganda’s position. His Excellency the President outlined the economic priorities of the Government in the next financial year, which include peace and security of persons and property, effective implementation of PDM and Emyooga , acquisition of right-of-way for Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), investing in small-scale solar- powered irrigation to address climate change and food security, constructing transmission lines and power substations, maintenance of both tarmac and murram roads, development of industrial parks, support medical schools and scientific-based research, expediting the infrastructure of oil and gas, capitalising UDB and UDC and supporting ICT. In conclusion, let me take this opportunity to thank His Excellency the President, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for steering the NRM government to expand the economic base of the country and a strong foundation that has been built for rapid economic growth and socio-economic transformation. I beg to move.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. The last time I was here, in the last sitting, you assigned me to go to Kasese -

And to the hospital - first, Kasese as a community, is grateful for your quick and motherly response. However, the community is still bleeding psychologically. It continues to be crippled emotionally. Madam Speaker, 17 bodies had been sent to Buhinga Hospital for DNA testing, especially the bodies that were burnt beyond recognition. Eleven of those bodies are back and they were received yesterday by the grieving families. For the six remaining bodies, I think the DNA technologists are still trying to figure out how they can match their DNA because the bodies are basically ash and rubble. Madam Speaker, the point I want to bring to your attention is that the Government, out of its generosity, donated Shs 5 million to every family. However, when the honourable minister, Muyingo, went to the community, he did not leave donations for families of the 11 bodies because he had to wait until their identities could be ascertained. When I was in the community yesterday, the families of the 11 bodies, whose DNA had been matched, were waiting for the Government and the minister to, probably, assign somebody to take the Shs 5 million contribution. Madam Speaker, my Woman Member of Parliament asked a lot of questions – and valid questions – but we are yet to get answers to the questions. Madam Speaker, before the tragedy happened, we had a lot of checkpoints everywhere. It is amazing and shocking that now, you drive all the way from Rwimi to Kiraro - the last mountainous area – without a checkpoint. How can you have checkpoints in every junction of the district before the tragedy and, sadly, after the tragedy that disappears? Our people that are living in extreme fear. COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

9281 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 29 JUNE 2023 My request this afternoon is that the security leadership should put checkpoints so that communities can be in their homes and in schools with a restful heart. Lastly, Madam Speaker, there is a lot of miscommunication. The Government pronounced itself and said: “We shall provide security in our school communities.” Unfortunately, the school communities do not have security. Madam Speaker, I am asking you, on behalf of the people of Kasese, to direct the ministers to ensure an adequate manpower is deployed around the schools so that we do not have our sons and daughters breaking off and missing their education. To those in hospitals, Madam Speaker, I think we should continue to offer them prayers. They are responding very well. Doctors are following them up and, by the grace of God, we may have their lives back. I really appreciate you, Madam Speaker.

Thank you, Hon. Atkins. Hon. Ogwang, we would want you to follow up with Hon. Muyingo on the money that was not given to those other families and the issue of security in the schools. On the issue of the checkpoints, I remember one time, you were the same person who raised the issue of checkpoints everywhere – that before you reach Kasese, you would have to go through 20 checkpoints. They were removed because of you. Now, you are the same person who has come complaining that there are no checkpoints. So, what do we do as the Government?

First check the First Schedule. Let us resolve one issue at a time. The First Schedule has Kampala and districts of Uganda. Bundibugyo and Kasese are in Rwenzori; Busia, Butaleja, Pallisa and Tororo in Bukedi and Abim, Kaabong, Kotido and Moroto in Karamoja. Mbale, Sironko and Manafwa are in Bugisu, Bukwo and Kapchorwa in Sebei while Adjumani and Moyo are in Madi - Should I read all?

Honourable members, the other day we heard the information about the attack on the children. We asked the minister to come up with a comprehensive report. I hope it has been uploaded. I thank the Holy Father for having had prayers for those children. There were prayers in the Vatican for the children who were burnt in Kasese. (Applause)

Madam Speaker, I rise on a procedural matter related to the same issue. It is basically on the illegal use of the gun that has become so rampant in the country. As we are talking about the Kasese issue, killings have increased. The other day in Mayuge, they murdered a businessman. Just early morning, they shot and killed him. Every day, there is somebody being killed with an illegal gun that is being misused. That incident happened in Bukatube, and the Prime Minister present here was around. The community overran the small police post and started killing others; they killed everyone they suspected. Wouldn’t it be procedurally right for the minister to come here and also tell us about this gun misuse and the killings that are happening rampantly every day? What is the problem? What is not being done because it is continuous -

Thank you, Madam Speaker. In line with the same, what happened in Mayuge is really very embarrassing. Hajji Hamza, a very prominent businessman, was gunned down and yet he was neighbouring the police. On the right-hand side of his home is the Marine Police and on the left-hand side of his home is a police post, just 50 metres away. However, someone came and fired very many bullets, but there was no response. Madam Speaker, as we talk about the Kasese issues, there are even more issues within our homes, villages and communities that go undetected. Something wrong is actually not being fixed. The Minister of Defence and Internal Affairs should come up with a comprehensive report. Otherwise, our people are not secure, and yet the obligation of Government is to keep people with their property. It is in the hands of the police, which is their cardinal role. I beg that the Minister of Defence and Internal Affairs comes up with a report for us to debate and find out exactly what happened. Is it about money? Corruption? Welfare? Deployment?

We are going to do that. On the second question, we are going to organise it with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and together, we will present a security report to the Parliament – (Interjections) – the one on Kasese is here -

Honourable members, listen to the Kasese report.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. This is a statement by the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs to Parliament regarding the attack on Peter Hunter Secondary School Nyabigando, also known as Lhubiriha Mpondwe Secondary School. At the Third Sitting of the Parliament of Uganda held on Tuesday, 20 June 2023, Parliament directed the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs to issue a statement about the Kasese killings by the ADF yesterday, 2l June 2023, but because of the circumstances entailed here, I am presenting it today, 22 June 2023. I would like to thank you, Madam Speaker, for according the Government this opportunity to make this statement. Allow me to bring up to date all Members about what has been happening, briefly, so that we are together and share knowledge about these terrorist attacks. On l3 November 1996, ADF l200 strong, all armed by President Mobutu of DRC and President Bashir of Sudan attacked Mpondwe and occupied it for four days. The plan of Bashir was, as he was already supporting LRA in Northern Uganda, to be able to flank us from behind by capturing Kasese Airstrip for their groups’ supply of arms/weapons to collapse the NRM Government. We mobilised and in four days, we killed 400 of them. Therefore, we failed their plan as they only managed to just occupy Mpondwe in Kasese for the four days I have mentioned, as they were blocked by a small force there. When we mobilised ourselves, they gave up their mission of capturing Kasese Town and Airstrip and resorted to turning to terrorism by killing people and forcing them into Internally Displaced Camps (IDPs). They also disappeared and occupied the mountain areas of Kasese and Kabarole.

Madam Speaker, I know Hon. Ssempijja is two years old in that ministry. He may know that several statements about Kasese and the ADF have been presented to Parliament with a history that he is repeating. The procedural issue I am raising is whether the minister, who was instructed to present a statement on the attack in Kasese, should lecture this Parliament as if we are in Kyankwanzi about the history that has already been presented by Hon. Kiyonga, Hon. Mbabazi? All subsequent Ministers of Defense and Veteran Affairs have given that information. Instead of giving us knowledge we do not have, he is taking us back and supplying what we already have.

9217 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 22 JUNE 2023 I have organised a small map there, but you can see – (Laughter) We are showing only that part around the Rwenzori from Kibale National Park down up to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Edward and when you enter Congo, we are showing from Bulibo through Virunga National Park, Kasindi, Mpondwe - We had this problem in Mpondwe and I am going to talk about it. You will know about Butembo, Butwe and Beni and those mountains after Rwenzori National Park. Madam Speaker, the ADF is mostly in the northern parts of the road from Kasindi to Beni. You can see Kasindi and Beni on the north- west. Kasindi is in the middle near Mpondwe and then Beni. The northern parts of that road and south of the road are occupied by UPDF and where the UPDF is operating from, life has come back to normal with the population settling back to economic production. For example, they have gone back to cocoa and coffee farming, shops are open and schools are running. All the shops, if I have to volunteer some information, are full of Ugandan goods. When you go to all these towns from Beni, Bunia, Masindi – but that is something else. In the DRC, where Congo allowed us to operate, the ADF could not go to camp there; they only remained in small groups. I used a Luganda word - bukunkumuka – When you have dry cow dung and you remove the lump, what remains is little. These remaining bukunkumuka; small, scattered remnants that cannot attack barracks and police stations - But why do they attack civilians and schools, killing innocent people? We are very sure that they do this: 1. To give themselves publicity. 2. To make the world know that they are still there. 3. To detract us (UPDF) back from attacking them in Congo in their main camps. We have denied them space locally, but we also need to finish them from their perennial hideouts in Congo and this country should not remain in this panic forever. What the ADF is doing is not a sign of strength, but of weakness. Otherwise, why don’t they attack military and police barracks or ambush army vehicles? As you know, Madam Speaker, when you burn a log, even the ash that we call evvu in Luganda, can get into your eyes and cause pain. The bukunkumuka should be wiped out or evvu well swept because all these can cause damage. They tried this in Ntoroko on 13 December 2022 and they were planning to do exactly what they did to this school recently. They were 51 when they attacked; out of the 51, 26 were put out of action. (Interjection) Yes, we counted them. When fighting, you are not blind. We counted them and 26 were put out of action and their bodies remained there. The remaining 25 were captured and we have them in prison. When we capture them, we do not kill them; we put them in prison. This was a bigger and well-armed group than that one of Lhubiriha, the recent Kasese group, which were less than 10 terrorists. We are carrying out investigations to establish and get answers to some pertinent questions, which everyone, including honourable Members, are asking: 1. Why didn’t people, both security and civilians, see them? 2. Why were there no identification or suspicion of new or strange faces? All these will be answered by all the investigations that are going on and the findings will avail these answers. We have already removed the logs, but we now need to remove the ash. Regarding this instant case, on 16 June 2023, at around 2300 hours (11.00 p.m.), suspected ADF rebels, numbering between five to 10, attacked Peter Hunter Secondary School, Nyabigando also known as Lhubiriha Mpondwe Secondary School in Kasese District. Following the attack, 37 students, one security guard who challenged the attackers and four other civilians were killed. That made it 41 lives lost, but we have

9218 MINISTERIAL STATEMENT lost another person who was under medical care. The first information to the nearby UPDF deployment was received at around 2330hrs (11.30 p.m.) from civilians, to the effect that students were on strike and had set the school on fire. This information was quickly shared with police deployed at Bwera and, subsequently, a joint UPDF and police force, on wheels, was dispatched to the scene. Routine foot patrols also joined the dispatched joint force to the scene of crime. Unfortunately, the attackers had retreated towards River Semliki inside the DRC – exactly below Mpondwe – and eventually towards Virunga National Park. This Virunga National Park is an area that is not inhabited by human beings and, therefore, has no security deployment. However, the UPDF forces pursued the attackers southwards to River Lhubiriha because they were expected to cross there, around three kilometres from the scene of crime. Despite that, Madam Speaker, the pursuit continued and on 19 June 2023, at around l4.30hrs (2.30 p.m.), towards the confluence of River Semliki and River Talia in the DRC, the attackers, who had made a hasty defensive position, were attacked by UPDF mobile squad, where three enemies were killed, one submachine gun was captured and one woman and three children were rescued. In the initial planning at the start of Operation Shujaa, such diversionary acts by the ADF enemy were anticipated and taken care of. That is why rear deployments in the entire Rwenzori subregion were maintained. For instance, when the same ADF group attempted to infiltrate Ntoroko District in December last year, even in bigger numbers as mentioned above, the whole group was annihilated, owing to timely information from the civilian population. Unfortunately, in this case of Kasese, the information was late, inaccurate and the small group was able to infiltrate with the assistance of some collaborators. That is why some of them have already been arrested to help in the investigations. Operation Shujaa was initiated, partly, to arrest the ADF terrorism from its source in DRC. The bombings in Kampala, for example, in November 2021, were organised from DRC. Had we not deployed in time, the situation would have been worse. This particular incident was an isolated one and highly regrettable. However, it does not and will not deter our resolve and commitment to execute our constitutional mandate of defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Uganda in general and Kasese and the Rwenzori subregion in particular. The pursuit for these criminals continues by the UPDF in the DRC. We will also continue with deep investigations in order to understand the nitty-gritty aspects of this incident. Our forces, together with other security forces, are going on with the process of investigating these occurrences. Any elements found to have been an accomplice will be arrested and prosecuted as per the laws of the country. We are also doing community sensitisation and mobilisation for vigilance, collaboration with security forces and working with security forces to make sure that the population is more vigilant in this affected area. As I speak now, the general situation has returned to normalcy. We appeal for calmness, vigilance and cooperation from all citizens of good will in Rwenzori subregion and the country at large, as we continue to deliver on our constitutional mandate of preserving peace and security for person and property within this country. The country will be informed on any other developments regarding this incident and the situation in general. I thank you, Madam Speaker. For God and My Country.

Thank you very much, honourable minister. Honourable members, you have heard the statement on what happened in Kasese. It was a very unfortunate incident and, of course, at the end of the day, you cannot blame anybody. It happened and our security forces need to become more vigilant. Let me start with the Members from Kasese District and then we go to the in-laws and relatives. (Laughter) Let us not take a lot of time because we are about to go to Prime Minister’s Time. I wish you could give us a way forward as you discuss: what do we do?

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. To begin with, I thank you, Madam Speaker, because immediately I received the tragic news, I contacted you and everybody in the security system, including the President. I thank you that not only did you receive my call, but you even opened your home for us to have a meeting on a way forward. I am meant to understand that we almost lost you because your pressure went up when you saw innocent citizens – school children; our future engineers, our doctors, our priests and our judges – murdered and had their lives brutally terminated in cold blood. We really appreciate you for the support you gave us. We also appreciate the support of the colleagues in the House. Thank you very much. I appreciate it. I thank the minister for the comprehensive report. Madam Speaker, you have just guided that we should not blame anybody. However, I think it is very important for us to say: “Never again.” Honourable minister, you indicated in your report that out of the 51 attackers in Ntoroko, 26 were put out of action and 25 have been taken captive by our forces. I wish the same really happened in Kasese. My prayers are: 1. We have about five people still in hospital. My estimation, Madam Speaker, is that where a hospital cannot manage their condition. It is no wonder that yesterday, we lost another life that was being managed in the ICU at Bwera Hospital. My prayer right now, because this cannot wait, is that the Government evacuates the five people and they are taken to better equipped hospitals, specifically Mbarara Hospital, which is not really very far from Kasese. We cannot afford to lose another life. It pains me because the woman that died yesterday had lost a husband. So, what are we going to tell these orphaned children? The only hope that they had was maybe the mother surviving to look after them. I think we have gone through enough as a community. Madam Speaker, through your directive, I am asking the Ministry of Health or ministers of health, that these citizens still fighting for their lives in Bwera Hospital should immediately be evacuated to Mbarara Hospital for further and better management. Two, my prayer, as I conclude, is on a way forward. The President responded to our requests as leaders from Kasese. Five million shillings was given to each bereaved family and we are really thankful to the President and the Commander of Defence Forces. However, we are asking for presence and deployment. The entire Kasese is insecure; the lake communities, the mountainous communities, the urban and village communities. We are asking that deployment that relates to the threat should be scaled up, and both soft and hardware capabilities should be scaled up in the community. Lastly, instead of our sons and daughters going back to their homes because that is what the parents ask for - this Parliament should direct the Ministers of Defence, Internal Affairs and Security to ensure that security, specifically in

He is making a confirmation as a doctor; he is not a journalist. (Laughter) He is a doctor; he is just making a professional conformation. So, honourable minister, we need to know where those patients are so that we visit them to see how best they can be supported. Hon. Atkins Katusabe is asking about deployment. The whole of Kasese is not safe. That is not too much for us- Members, you will speak.

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for this opportunity. It is unfortunate that we lost our young ones at such a tender age in cold blood. Kasese being at the border, it is very impossible for one to cross from the Democratic Republic of Congo with a small smuggled item without being detected, followed and arrested. Rebels crossed from Congo to Uganda and killed our young ones without being detected. (Applause) The minister just told us that these people attacked the school at 11.30 p.m. He has not told us what time his security forces reached the school. He is aware and everyone is aware that the rebels came, took their time to kill these

Thank you. They broke into the shops, looted and went away with their stuff without being intercepted. Honestly, where were the security forces? Remember, when they reached the school, they first shot dead the askari. I want to believe they heard the bullets. They heard the sound of the bomb that they used to burn the bodies - about 17 were burnt; you cannot recognise them. The security officers did not respond. When we asked these questions, they were like, “This one is against us”. It is very shameful. If you can respond to issues of smuggled items, why can’t you respond when it comes to issues of human life? (Applause) Is it that money is more important than the lives of the people? We have people who collect information on your behalf. We have the Village Internal Security Officers (VISOs Parish Internal Security Officers (PISOs), Ward Internal Security Officers (WISOs) Gombolola Internal Security Officers (GISOs), but where were they? Where were the DISOs? They are supposed to collect information on your behalf yet you were arresting civilians. The actual culprits have not been arrested. Why are you hiding them? (Applause) I respect the minister, but the report you have presented has made me ask: what is this? We do not need to cover these issues. If you love your country, speak the truth so that your juniors can learn that they have been sleeping on duty. If you lie to the country, what will the juniors think? They will think you are praising what they were doing. You have just said you cannot allow an enemy to cross the border, but how did the enemy cross? Two weeks ago, Kasindi Village, which is next to the Ugandan Border, was attacked by rebels; people were killed and others abducted. It should have been a warning that the border is not safe. When we talked about it, you said, “No, you people in Kasese, there is no need for panic. We are going to boost security at the border”. Yet, just two weeks down the road, we were attacked. Where was the deployment? I would like to thank you for the support you gave for burials; the Shs 5 million helped, but how about those whose children were abducted? People are flooding their homes; they are feeding them. The parents are dishing a lot of money. Everyone who dies at the hands of Government is given Shs 5 million, but what is it for? What does it do? All we need is the protection of our people and not the Shs 5 million you are giving. Thank you.

Madam Speaker, as leaders from Kasese, we are grateful for the sympathies and condolences to our people-

Madam Speaker, I want to agree with the presentation of my colleagues, the Member for Bukonzo West County and the Woman Representative for Kasese District. It is true, we who were at the scene realised there was thin deployment. Why? It is because the Major General who is commanding our forces in Congo informed us that they heard about the attack when they were in Congo. They attempted to come from Congo to rescue our people, but the Congo border could not allow them to quickly cross to the Uganda side. That is what the Major General confessed. Madam Speaker, this meant that we were relying on a force that had already crossed to Congo to come and rescue a situation in Uganda. That confirms there was thin deployment. What happened at the scene was terrible. By the time our students died, they had cried for help. One of the girls who died is my cousin’s daughter. These people cried, but got no help. It was terrible. Our students were butchered; they were slaughtered like goats. It took over an hour as our students were being butchered. It is, therefore, my request that the UPDF considers serious deployment on the ground. This is very serious. Our people died badly. If you reached the scene, you would feel pity. The boys who resisted being stormed into the dormitory were burnt beyond recognition. When we were removing the bodies, we could not recognise any of them until they carried out the DNA tests. The way forward is that the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs should work closely with us, the leaders from Kasese. Let us also use the media to call upon our people who have been diverted into rebel work to come home. We are lucky our king has been released and we are grateful to the President. So, let us work closely with him to mobilise our people to leave this rebel work. We have vigilantes in Kasese who are trained at the village level. I would like to recommend that since we have a thin deployment, let us reinforce deployment by involving our vigilantes on the ground. They should be armed so that in case we are attacked, our local people who are trained participate in defending themselves. If we had such an arrangement, there would have been some prior preliminary self-defence. I conclude by thanking you, Madam Speaker and every Member, for the concern about the killing of our people in the Rwenzori Region. Thank you, for listening to me.

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for giving me this opportunity. I would like to join my colleagues from Kasese to condole with the parents who lost their dear ones. The issue of massacring our children is becoming too much in this country. If I may recall, in Kasese, at St Johns, the same

9223 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 22 JUNE 2023 happened. We had a similar massacre in Kichwamba Technical College, just like the recent one. My plea to the Ministry of Defense and Veteran Affairs, as my friends have alluded to, is that we need serious deployment and combing the entire mountain. Madam Speaker, an attack on Kasese is not only for the people of Kasese, but the entire sub-region and country. Look at the mountain stretch from Kasese through Bunyangabo, Ntoroko up to Bundibugyo. Therefore, when the people of Kasese are in agony, the people across the mountain are all in pain. Madam Speaker, last weekend in Bundibugyo, security personnel arrested three ADF terrorists and it is on record. I would like to make an appeal that the combing should not only be done in Kasese, but also across the whole mountain because you are aware that it is hard to reach. In addition, the roads in that area are impassable. Like the minister alluded, security roads in the Congo have been worked upon. If they have been worked on, why not our roads on the mountain slopes? I so pray. Thank you.

Can we look at what the way forward is to protect the people of Kasese? Honourable minister -

Madam Speaker, I would like to first of all thank the honourable members who have spoken here, especially those from Kasese and Bundibugyo. However, I would like to say that the UPDF, which I oversee, is usually committed. And when you look at how these people are suffering - the UPDF are also suffering to ensure that there is peace. Anyhow, that aside, I would like to assure the Members here that we are doing - even before I came, the President had already given us orders to beef up and add to the numbers as well as the technologies at the border. So, I assure the Members that –

That is why I am thanking you. (Laughter) At the beginning, this Government had sent a junior minister for education and sports to address these complex matters. That is reflective of their response when they received reports the way the Members from Kasese have described. Rule 52, under which the minister has moved this statement, should be utilised to provide Parliament with information so they can seek help, not propaganda. I have known Hon. Ssempijja since his time as Masaka District LC V Chairman. I do not know why, especially ministers from Buganda, allow to carry statements that are a shame. You come to Parliament to lie to us and you want us to –

9139 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 20 JUNE 2023 by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). That was a tragic occurrence. It opens up the scars of the previous tragedies that have happened. In 1998, there was an attack at Kichwamba Technical Institute in Kabarole, where students were burnt. In 1991, there was the abduction of students from Sacred Heart in Gulu. In 1996, there was also an abduction of girls from Aboke in Oyam. We sincerely condole with the bereaved families and management of the school, the people of Kasese and all the people of Uganda. We condemn this loss in the strongest terms. Such actions are very unproductive and should be investigated and the perpetrators brought to book. It is a very bad incident. Just imagine you are killing your kid or grandkid. You wake up thinking your kid is at school and you just get the news that your kid has been killed! It is a bad incident. I call upon the Minister of State for Higher Education, who was at the site, to come and give us a statement on what his findings were and what the Government is planning to do. The Minister of Internal Affairs was also there. I am happy that the Prime Minister is also in the House. They should be able to give us a statement on what happened and what the Government is planning to do. Honourable members, on Saturday, 17 June 2023, we received the tragic news of the demise of Justice Stella Arach-Amoko of the Supreme Court. The deceased had an illustrious career as a judicial officer. We condole with the family, the Judiciary, the people of West Nile and all the people of Uganda. Please, accept our condolences for the loss of this very industrious lady. On behalf of Parliament, we sincerely convey our condolences to the families of the children who died, the Judiciary and all the people of Uganda. Much as the Bible says there is a time to be born and a time to die, one should die in an acceptable way, and not in the way the children were killed. We put all that in God’s hand. May their souls rest in eternal peace. May we rise please and observe a moment of silence in their honour? (Members rose and observed a moment of silence.)

Thank you. Honourable members, in the public gallery, we have very beautiful children from Sir Apollo Kaggwa Primary School. (Applause) You are most welcome and thank you for coming. This is your Parliament. These beautiful kids are from Kampala Central Division. They are represented by Hon. Kazibwe Bashir and Hon. Shamim Malende. You are most welcome. You are very smart. (Applause) Also, in the public gallery this afternoon, we have Muslim leaders from Kagoma County, Jinja District. They are represented by Hon. Walyomu and Hon. Katali. You are most welcome. Thank you for coming. Asaalam Aleikum . (Member rose_) Honourable member, why are you standing? In my communication, I asked the Prime Minister for a brief statement on what happened in Kasese and I know all of you want to talk about Kasese. Let us first know what happened; let us not speak out of the blue. The Prime Minister is in the House. Honourable members, we need to debate from an informed point of view.

Madam Speaker, what happened in Kasese is a regrettable incident. The Government is going to present a statement through the Ministry of Education and Sports since this was a school and the minister is here.

9142 DESIGNATION OF MEMBERS TO SECTORAL COMMITTEES I know our President is a President of advanced age. That is why sometimes he asks other government officials to act, including those who are suspects. The procedural issue I am raising is - the law does not stop the President from delegating, but issues of security and defence are very serious matters. We passed here a budget and policies that are not overseen by the wife of the President. You cannot run this country in that way, where your wife says, “Darling, can I be the one to speak about the attack in Kasese? Okay, baby, go ahead”. (Laughter) On this matter, we need the minister responsible for defence. We passed money here and gave it to the defence ministry to defend Uganda’s borders. Hon. Muyingo is a very obedient and loyal person. Even what he should not do, he wants to do. I do not know what he was doing in Kasese at a crime scene.

Madam Speaker, the procedural issue I am raising relates to rules 160 and 187. These rules provide for how Members are designated to committees. They are designated by whips on behalf of parties and the Speaker, in the case of the Independents. However, they do not provide for the designation of UPDF Representatives. I think the rule assumes that the UPDF should be in Kasese defending the people, and not in Parliament. (Laughter) So, Madam Speaker, can I be advised on the rule under which the UPDF sat and even appointed someone “dean” and that “dean” parades before Parliament to begin reading names? Under rule 160, it is parties through the whips, and the independents, through the Speaker. Under rule 187, it is, again, for parties and independents. Can the UPDF, who are supposed to be in Kasese – by these rules – tell us the rule under which they are going to designate themselves?

9119 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 15 JUNE 2023 Madam Speaker, Shs 2.24 trillion has been allocated for food security, irrigation, climate change mitigation, value chain development, agricultural research and disease/pest control, among others. Supporting private sector growth Madam Speaker, the private sector has been directly supported through industrial parks’ development, promoting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and facilitating tourism. Industrial development and investment Madam Speaker, eight Government-owned industrial parks are currently operational at Namanve, Jinja, Bweyogerere, Mbale, Soroti, Mbarara and Kasese and Luzira. In addition, there are three industrial parks developed under a public-private partnership arrangement at Kapeeka, Mukono and Buikwe. The Uganda Investment Authority has acquired 12 square miles for industrial development, provided by various local governments in 18 zones across the country. Uganda’s global reputation as an investment destination has been boosted significantly in the recent past. Uganda has been named the No. 1 investment destination in East Africa by AIM Global 2023 at Dubai. In addition, our country has been ranked among the top 10 African countries for the best investment destinations in Africa by the African Development Bank. It is now also ranked the first in East Africa for capital market growth by Absa Bank. SME development Madam Speaker, SMEs in the manufacturing and export sectors will be supported with US$ 20 million under the Investment for Industrial Transformation and Employment Trust (INVITE Trust), which will provide grants and concessional credit to qualifying SMEs. These SMEs will access new and innovative financing products with long-term financing of up to 15 years. This intervention aims at increasing Ugandan manufactured export products, generating direct and indirect jobs for more than 200,000 workers and safeguarding existing jobs for 530,000 workers. Madam Speaker, an allocation of Shs 209.28 billion has been provided through the INVITE project next year. Tourism Uganda has increasingly been recognised as a tourism destination and is ranked by CNN as one of the top 10 tourist destinations in the World. We will, therefore, promote domestic and inbound tourism, including the use of digital platforms. Uganda will also be marketed as a global and regional centre for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE). Hospitality standards will be enforced through the licensing, grading and classification of tourism facilities. Shs 249 billion has been allocated for the promotion of tourism. Madam Speaker, all the private sector interventions I have detailed above have been allocated Shs 2.37 trillion. Building human capital Madam Speaker, Uganda has registered visible improvements in healthcare outcomes, access to knowledge and a decent standard of living. On average, a Ugandan now lives longer – at 64 years, up from 53 years just as recently as 2015 – attains more years of schooling and enjoys a higher income per capita than ever before. Let me repeat this because it is interesting, especially to me who is working day and night to make sure that the youth and the sick are helped to recover: Uganda has registered visible improvements in healthcare outcomes, access to knowledge and a decent standard of living. On average, a Ugandan now lives longer

9122 BUDGET SPEECH, 2023 commence next financial year. Forty-nine per cent of the right-of-way for the Kampala- Malaba Standard Gauge railway has been acquired. The construction of the Malaba- Kampala Standard Gauge Railway will commence next financial year, for which Shs 535 billion has been provided. Madam Speaker, in the air transport sector, the redevelopment and expansion of Entebbe International Airport is at 85 per cent complete and due to be completed by July 2024. The construction of Kabalega International Airport now stands at 91.7 per cent and will be completed by September 2023. We shall also rehabilitate and upgrade the following aerodromes that are under feasibility studies: Kidepo, Pakuba, Mbarara, Gulu, Arua, Kisoro and Kasese. Madam Speaker, an allocation of Shs 4.5 trillion, representing 13.3 per cent of the total budget has been budgeted for road maintenance and construction; railway development and rehabilitation; and water and air transport development. Of particular significance, an allocation of Shs 1 billion has been provided to each district, city and municipality for road grading, murram and compacting. In total, Shs 176 billion has been allocated for this purpose. (Applause) We have also secured US$ 608.7 million, equivalent to Shs 2.25 trillion to address flooding, traffic congestion, poor road infrastructure, un- signalised junctions and unemployment in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA) covering Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono and Mpigi districts and their municipalities. This will upgrade 504 kilometres of roads including junction signalisation in eight urban authorities; rehabilitation of 30 storm water drainage points; upgrade 23 markets and construct 25 artisanal parks, and industrial workspaces for small-scale manufacturers. (Applause) In collaboration with the World Bank, the Government is implementing a $360 million Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID) programme to improve infrastructure and address operational challenges in the cities and municipalities. Power infrastructure Power generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure have continued to expand. Generation capacity increased to 1,378.1 Megawatts as at March 2023 from 1,343.9 Megawatts in March 2022, an increase of 34.4 Megawatts, although that is again not enough. With the commissioning of the Karuma Hydropower Project planned for September this year, generation capacity will increase to 1,976 Megawatts. The 6-Megawatt Nyagak III Hydropower project is also due for commissioning by end of this month. In transmission, a total of 417 kilometres of transmission lines were added to the main grid during the year, bringing the total transmission line network now to 4,011 kilometres. To enable evacuation of power from the 600-Megawatt Karuma Hydropower Project the 248-kilometre Karuma-Kawanda, the 55-kilometre Karuma-Olwiyo and the 76-kilometre Karuma-Lira lines have been completed. Twekubireko mu ngalo . (Applause) Next year, 761 kilometres of transmission lines and associated power substations will be constructed to improve the stability and reliability of the networks. We will also build the capacity of the Uganda Electricity Generation and Transmission companies to manage the generation and distribution networks after the expiry of the ESKOM and Umeme concessions. Madam Speaker, next financial year, Shs 1.3 trillion has been allocated for electricity interventions. Digital transformation Turning to digital transformation, 4,717 kilometres of optic fibre have been laid across the country. Geographical coverage of broad Band services stands at 66 per cent and 25

9089 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 24 MAY 2023 7. Mbarara Industrial Park for small-scale enterprises for which 35 workplaces are occupied; and, 8. Kasese Industrial Park where one company is operational and five are at still construction stage. Both Karamoja and Koboko industrial Parks will soon start. In addition, we have three industrial parks, which are operated under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement. These include Liao Shen Kapeeka with 17 factories, MMP Industrial Park, Buikwe, with six companies operational and Tian Tang in Mukono with four companies. The total capital investment within the industrial parks so far, is $2.93 billion and 98,263 direct jobs have been created with many more indirect jobs. In total, 226 factories are operating within the industrial parks while 303 are either under construction or at the planning stage. The development of industrial parks is one of the vehicles for socio-economic transformation with the projected creation of 2.5 million jobs in the next five years. The factories in the industrial parks do not include the standalone factories owned and operated by many different investors. These are factories that belong to Mukwano Group of Companies, Mulwana Group and so on. These are a total of 354 factories and employing an additional 100,000 people. The total number of factories in Uganda is 4,008, employing a total number of 150,000 people. The Parish Development Model We are committed to creating wealth and jobs by moving households from the non-money economy to the money economy. To achieve this goal, the Government launched the Parish Development Model to accelerate socio- economic transformation. Using this approach, 39 per cent of households, which are currently in the non-money economy - the majority of whom are in subsistence agriculture - will move into the money economy. The Parish Development Model will increase incomes, improve quality of life and eradicate poverty at household level through the modernisation of agriculture, industrialisation, improved service delivery and using modern communication technologies. Through the Parish Development Model, agriculture will be transformed from subsistence to commercial. This approach will organise and deliver public and private sector interventions for wealth creation, and employment generation using the parish as the economic unit for planning, budgeting and service delivery. Therefore, the 10,594 parishes in the country will be the growth and service delivery units in the Parish Development Model. Government has committed Shs 1,059 billion this financial year for its rollout countrywide. So far, parishes which established SACCOs have received Shs 50 million each, benefitting 906 SACCOs and more than 21,000 individual beneficiaries. Government will deepen the implementation of the Parish Development Model beyond the financial inclusion pillar by maintaining the disbursement of Shs 100 million to every parish next financial year and in the subsequent years. When I visited some parts of the country, I was told that some of the Parish Development Model money has given to people who were not eligible. This includes politicians and public servants. I was also informed about the delays in accessing the funds released by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to the target beneficiaries. In some cases, a few elite people come together and form SACCOs, and take all the funds released for the entire parish. The State House Anti-Corruption Unit has arrested a number of

9096 ADDRESS ON THE STATE OF THE NATION The rehabilitation works of Mityana - Mubende (86 kilometres); 14 kilometres town roads in Mubende; Olwiyo-Pakwach (62 kilometres); Alwii - Nebbi (33 kilometres) are ongoing. The Government is expediting the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway, starting next Financial Year 2023/2024, starting with Malaba to Kampala. I welcome the decision of His Excellency, President William Ruto of Kenya, agreeing to extend the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to Malaba because that was a problem. In the meantime, the rehabilitation of the Tororo to Gulu Metre Gauge Railway and Kampala Metre Gauge Railway are underway. As regards road transport, priority will be given to the maintenance of existing road networks, especially in the urban areas, continued upgrade of selected strategic roads from gravel to bituminous surface, maintenance of national districts and community roads by facilitating each district in the country, with a minimum of Shs 1 billion to upgrade and compact the dry weather marram roads next financial year. Infrastructure priorities Government has over the years invested heavily in infrastructure. This has helped to narrow the huge infrastructure gap we had in the 1990s. However, there are still critical gaps that Government will continue to prioritise in order to reduce the cost of doing business such as lowering the electricity price. You know, these people use their mysterious language; power tariffs and all that. Mwe ba wanainchi, ekyo mukitegele bulungi, bano byeboogela ebya “power tariffs”. They simply mean electricity prices for manufacturers and other businesses. The critical infrastructure include the railway, upgrading of airports, including completion of Kabaale International Airport, which is at 91 per cent completion and Entebbe International Airport, which is at 71 per cent completion; development of new ports on our lakes; and completing the heavy investment in the energy infrastructure, for example, Karuma Dam and associated transmission lines. We also need to build new airports near the tourism destinations such as Kidepo, Bwindi, Kasese, among others. Tourists, who are the rich people, do not have time to come, land at Entebbe International Airport and drive for 700 kilometres to Kidepo. No, they do not have time. We need to build airports for the rich foreigners to land near the national park, see the animals and go away. Those airports, of course, also help with security. Like now with night operations in Karamoja, we fly very far; from Nakasongola and all those places. It is better to have a good airport which can operate day and night in those areas. Government will prioritise infrastructure that supports industrialisation, production of oil and gas, and promote tourism. These include industrial parks, electricity power substations, extending and upgrading electricity transmission lines, water for industrial use and ICT infrastructure. Energy The total electricity generation capacity is now 1,346.6 megawatts. This is from 60 megawatts in 1986. This will increase to 1,800 megawatts once Karuma is commissioned this year. This means, therefore, that the construction of the transmission lines to evacuate this power must be completed without further delays. These lines include Karuma-Kawanda (400 KV), Karuma-Olwiyo (400 KV), Karuma-Lira (132 KV) and Kole-Gulu-Nebbi-Arua. They did not include the strength here; I think it is 132 KV. The demand for electricity is increasing by 15 per cent per year, although these figures of finance are kasoobo . You heard my figures on the milk; 193 per cent. Bano bali ku 15 per cent. Anyway, we are talking with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and I think we shall eventually agree. They are beginning to wake up because they are the ones who wrote this. Mukawulire kano . Bebawaandika bino ; Katonda yebazibwe .

Thank you, Mr Speaker. About three months ago, Parliament, through you, asked or made a requirement that the Government compensates the Government nurse that was burnt to ashes on 12 May 2022 in Kicucu Village, Kicucu Parish in Kisomoro Subcounty. There was a commitment from the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister that the compensation would be made. Mr Speaker, I have just returned from the community. Children will be reporting back to school on Monday. Sadly, however, I have to report to this House that five children of the deceased are not able to go back to school. Mr Speaker, the reason why I am raising this matter is because the widow is going through a very tough situation and the only rescue available is this House. Lastly, Mr Speaker, in the entire Kasese – I do not know what is really going on – literally, for everybody that walks into a hospital to go and give birth, two things have to occur: the mother who goes to give birth either goes back home in a coffin or the child does not make it. Mr Speaker, my request is that the Ministry of Health, at the level of a permanent secretary or minister, should dispatch a team to undertake a maternal mortality audit. Why should mothers continue to die in hospitals while giving birth? Mr Speaker, I went to the community and on Thursday, I was burying a mother that died while giving birth – Friday, Saturday and Sunday – this is a crisis! Mr Speaker, the people of Kasese are waiting for your leadership. The Government should undertake a maternal mortality audit to find out why mothers are dying while giving birth. Is it a matter of not having enough medical workers, tools or medicines? Really, an investigation has to be undertaken. I appreciate the opportunity, Mr Speaker.

Thank you. We have one item – Item No.5 – on the Business to follow and I think it is an item we need to give serious attention to. The item is the presentation of a petition of the Uganda Women Parliamentarians Association on the escalating cases of maternal mortality. I will give it space tomorrow so that these issues can be handled. However, Clerk, please, draft for me a letter for the minister to visit the area and link up with the Members so that we give attention to the people of Kasese. I have also heard some harrowing tales from there. On the compensation, the only limit is that we could only advise because we are limited by Article 93 of the Constitution. Otherwise, this compensation can only come from the Consolidated Fund and we cannot do much about it in terms of saying, “No.” It must be done. Therefore, we still urge the Government that since they committed to do that, they

Hon . Silas is found of disturbing me. Today in the newspaper, it was reported that a woman from Kasese produced five children. Any woman who produces more than one child, should have different days of maternity leave. Let me give the justification. The demand will be higher than for a woman who has produced one child. Of course, Mr Speaker, you have raised a very good point, which I was going to raise because here, we are almost creating a minimum wage and so, many people may fear to employ women. The minister should prescribe in the law that a third of the employees must be women. Why am I raising this? Instead of 90 days, we should continue with the 60 days, but allow women to work less hours so they can - we are saving on the following – Mr Speaker, my colleague talked about some workplace – let me give an example - Assuming I have a shop which has boxes of

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 mem - bers, none of the Members from Kasese Dis - trict is on the Committee on Budget and Kasese is a very big district. So, we should stop saying, “Members who are on the Committee on Bud - get”. Hon. Atkins is a poor man. (Laughter) He is not a member of the Committee on Budget. 142) Vote 857: Katakwi District - Shs 25,335,675,000 143) Vote 858: Kayunga District - Shs 37,361,049,000 144) Vote 859: Kazo District – Shs 18,099,602,000 145) Vote 860: Kibaale District - Shs 17,514,216,000 146) Vote 861: Kiboga District – Shs 25,621,222,000 147) Vote 862: Kibuku District – Shs 21,510,868,000 148) Vote 863: Kikuube District – Shs 22,027,669,000 149) Vote 864: Kiruhura District – Shs 18,214,354,000 150) Vote 865: Kiryandongo District - Shs 28,181,672,000 151) Vote 866: Kisoro District - Shs 41,251,167,000 152) Vote 867: Kitagwenda District – Shs 19,274,549,000 153) Vote 868: Kitgum District - Shs 28,277,064,000 154) Vote 869: Koboko District - Shs 19,175,066,000 155) Vote 870: Kole District – Shs 24,145,853,000 156) Vote 871: Kotido District – Shs 11,301,208,000 157) Vote 872: Kumi District - Shs 25,388,394,000 158) Vote 873: Kwania District – Shs 22,753,848,000 159) Vote 874: Kween District – Shs 19,391,073,000 160) Vote 875: Kyankwanzi District – Shs 24,244,929,000

Madam Speaker, I will start with the introduction. You guided that a statement be presented by the Government - that was supposed to be yesterday. In response to the incident of Thursday, 27 April, 2023 in Kampala and those before it, in some parts of the country. However, I could not present the Government statement yesterday because of the Cabinet meeting that took place on the same day. I would like to thank you for allowing me to present these statements today. Madam Speaker, let me give the background. In the recent past, we have witnessed confrontations between security personnel and political actors in various parts of the country, including Hoima, Mityana, and Kasese and recently at Parliament and Soroti. These confrontations resulted in the incident of 27 th April in Kampala, which involved 11 Members of Parliament and the police. Madam Speaker, our country is governed by the rule of law. Our rules create rights as well as obligations for all people, including citizens as well as for law and order enforcement officers. Following the incident of last Thursday, investigations into that matter, and all the previous ones were started to establish the circumstances under which they happened. These investigations will enable the Government to gather evidence surrounding these incidents and take appropriate action. In addition, this will help ensure that such incidents do not happen again in the way they did, or in the unlikely event that they do happen, they are managed better by security. A summary of these incidents, which is limited to the extent that will not jeopardise investigations is as follows: Kasese The Forum for Democratic Change, on 3 April 2023, held a leaders’ meeting successfully at Bellevue Equator Guest House in Kasese. Before the meeting started, there was confusion as the organisers had not notified Police about it, resulting in a standoff with the police authorities. However, upon notifying the police, the organisers of the meeting were immediately provided with security and the event took place smoothly. Soroti On 14 th April, Soroti City planned to hold Women’s Day celebrations. However, due to limited resources and other unavoidable circumstances, the event was rescheduled to another date yet to be confirmed. Hon. Joan Alobo, the Woman Member of Parliament for Soroti City, reportedly continued to mobilise people for the function in spite of the resolution of 13 th April in a meeting by Soroti City authorities, which postponed the event. Hon. Joan reportedly declined to attend this meeting. The tension that followed was, however, well managed by the police and the situation returned to normal. Buvuma On 19 April 2023 at around 4.00 p.m., the District Police Commander, Buvuma, briefed police officers at the Central Police Station about the unlawful assembly organised by Hon. Suzan Nakaziba the Woman Member of Parliament for that district.

Mr Speaker, I acknowledge the report of the honourable minister. However, I would like to say that his orders are appreciated but he should understand that orders on actions illegally done really do not matter; an illegality with or without an order is an illegality. We wait for action on the officers that manhandled these honourable Members of Parliament. Mr Speaker, for the record, the Members are 11 and I want this to be on record so that when we are looking for culprits, they know the victims are known: i. Hon. Joan Namutaawe, Woman MP of Masaka District; ii. Hon. Betty Ethel Naluyima, Woman MP of Wakiso District; iii. Hon. Juliet Kakande Nakabuye, Woman MP of Masaka City; iv. Hon. Manjeri Kyebakutika Woman MP of Jinja City and Deputy Opposition Chief Whip; v. Hon. Nyakato Asinansi, Woman MP of Hoima City; vi. Hon. Joyce Bagala Ntwatwa, Woman MP of Mityana District; vii. Hon. Florence Kabugho, Woman MP of Kasese; viii. Hon. Stella Isodo Apolot, Woman MP Ngora District; ix. Hon. Helen Nakimuli, Woman MP of Kalangala District; x. Hon. Hanifa Nabukeera Woman MP of Mukono District; and xi. Hon. Joan Acom Alobo, Woman MP Soroti City. Mr Speaker, this comes against the backdrop of what you explained in your opening statements that honourable members had lodged a petition to the Speaker over this mistreatment. Mr Speaker, they logged the complaint in their own right. That complaint is not a legal battle, but a public demonstration of their dissatisfaction. SUPPLEMENTARY RECURRENT EXPENDITURE FOR FY 2022/2023

Thank you. Honourable Chief Whip, try to get us the minister. In the meantime, let us go to item 8. We shall come back to the matter after getting feedback from the Government Chief Whip. MOTION FOR ADOPTION OF THE REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH ON A FIELD VISIT TO KASESE TO ASSESS THE STATUS OF KILEMBE MINES HOSPITAL

Mr Speaker, I would like to present the report of the Committee on Health on a field visit to Kasese to assess the status of Kilembe Mines Hospital. I beg to lay the original copy of the report with its annexes attached and minutes of the committee meetings. I would like to give a brief background of Kasese District, their health services and then the river in question, before I narrow it down to the committee observations and recommendations I would like to draw your attention to page 5; the background of Kasese District. It has five constituencies, 14 urban councils, three divisions and 27 rural subcounties. There are 133 health facilities, of which, 25 are private- for-profit and 17 are private-not-for-profit. 91 [Mr Mpuuga] SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT

8359 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 26 APRIL 2023 of these facilities are Government-owned and the the 47 facilities have antiretroviral services, meaning they are ART-accredited while a similar number are differentiated service-delivery sites. The table below, that is table 1, is a summary of the health service-delivery points in Kasese. As you can see, there are a total of 133 health facilities, of which 92 are public; in other words, Government health facilities. The table shows that out of the 92 Government-owned health facilities, there is one general hospital - which is Bwera – and two health centres IV; Nyamirami and Rukoki. I want you to take note of Rukoki because we will be making reference to it in the subsequent sections of this report. I would like to draw your attention to page 8. At the top is River Nyamwamba. The 257-Kilometre River Nyamwamba is fed by both rainfall and melting glaciers from the Rwenzori Mountain and it flows downwards through its river basin, and finally into Lake George. The continued melting of the glaciers from the Mt. Rwenzori is because of an increase in temperature. It is causing the river to carry more water downstream. In the morning hours, the river is majorly dry, but during the hot afternoons, when the ice has melted, the water travels downstream in large quantities and causes flooding. This situation is made worse by the evening rainfall. That is a synopsis of the river in question that is causing these floods. Kilembe Mines Hospital The background Kilembe Mines Hospital started operations in –

Well guided, Mr Speaker. Kilembe Mines Hospital started operations in 1954 to provide medical services to workers of the Kilembe Mines. Later, the management of Kilembe Mines Ltd decided to extend provision of medical services to residents of Rwenzori Subregion and Kasese District in general. Prior to the 2020 flooding by River Nyamwamba, the health facility was providing orthopaedic services to patients from Rwenzori Subregion and beyond. The hospital was located in Kilembe Valley, Bulembia Division in Kasese Municipality. Bulembia Division has a population of over 28,000 people and has Kilembe Health Centre Dispensary as the only Government health facility Ownership of this hospital Kilembe Mines Hospital is owned by Kilembe Mines Ltd, a parastatal with 99.996 per cent shareholding. Following plummeting copper prices in the 1970s, Kilembe Mines Ltd could not adequately fund its operations, including the hospital services. This prompted management to source for partners for the hospital. The management of Kilembe Mines Hospital is under a tripartite arrangement. In 1982, Kilembe Mines Ltd entered into a partnership with the Catholic Church through the Diocese of Fort Portal to run Kilembe Mines Hospital. It was agreed that Kilembe Mines Hospital was to continue providing medical services to workers of Kilembe Mines and the surrounding population. Due to its high operational costs, the partnership could not sustain the running of the hospital and they approached the Government, through the Ministry of Health, requesting for support. In 1995, a tripartite agreement was signed between Kilembe Mines Hospital, the registered trustees of the Diocese of Kasese and the Government, represented by the Ministry of Health. It should be noted that the Diocese of Kasese was created out of the Diocese of Fort Portal. According to the tripartite agreement, each of the parties was assigned the following roles:

8360 COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR Kilembe Mines Ltd was to own all assets and liabilities effective the day of execution of the agreement, including newly acquired ones. The Government of Uganda, represented by the Ministry of Health, through Kasese District Local Government, was to recruit and pay salaries for hospital staff. (c) The Diocese of Kasese was to be responsible for the day to day administration of the hospital. The tripartite agreement was reviewed in 2003, 2010 and 2017. The last edition of the tripartite agreement lapsed on 15 March 2022 after a five-year duration. Under the agreement, Kilembe Mines Hospital was managed by a management committee comprising 10 voting members answerable to the Minister of Health in accordance with article 5. Flooding of Kilembe Mines by River Nyamwamba On 1 May 2013, River Nyamwamba burst its banks and flooded its catchment area including Kilembe Mines Hospital. This followed flooding episodes in 2014 and most recently 2020. Prior to 2013, River Nyamwamba had last flooded 50 years ago. Those are the pictures, Mr Speaker. They should have been much clearer in colour. On page 12, there are more pictures there. The water really carried huge boulders and these are responsible for the destruction of the infrastructure of the hospital. The pictures speak louder than words. I will not spend a lot of time there. I would like to draw your attention to page 15. Expiry of the Tripartite Agreement On 15 March 2022, the tripartite agreement expired and was not renewed by the parties. Kilembe Mines Limited, Kasese District Local Government and Kasese Municipal Council informally agreed to continue running Kilembe Mines Hospital at a new site which is about 200 meters from the original Kilembe Mines Hospital. Kilembe Mines Limited in consultation with the district leadership resolved that the health services be housed in Kilembe Mines Limited structures that were safer from the threat of floods. The structures were renovated by Kilembe Mines Limited while the local community offered free labour during renovation, after which health services resumed on 1 April 2022. However, on 2 December 2020, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Diana Atwine wrote to Joint Medical Stores (JMS) to deactivate the credit line for essential medicines and health supplies for Kilembe Mines Hospital and directed that it is redistributed to other health facilities. The names of the health facilities are highlighted in the report, Mr Speaker. It is against this background that the Committee on Health conducted a field visit to Kasese Municipality. The objectives of the visit are clear. In the interest of time, I would like to go to page 20 on committee findings, observations and recommendations. The current status of Kilembe Mines Hospital What is the legal status of Kilembe Mines Hospital? The committee noted that upon expiry of the tripartite agreement on 15 March 2022, the parties did not renew the agreement. Therefore, the legal status of Kilembe Mines Hospital remains uncertain. The committee was informed that the Kilembe Mines Limited wrote to the Chief Administrative Officer of Kasese District Local Government on 24 February 2022, requesting for a continued partnership with Government in managing Kilembe Mines Hospital but no response has been received. That is Annex 5 of the correspondence letter. The same request was transmitted to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health but there is no response to date. On 5 March 2022, the Chief Administrative Officer of Kasese wrote to the Solicitor- General seeking legal interpretation of [Dr Ayume] SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT

8361 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 26 APRIL 2023 the status of Kilembe Mines Hospital but no response has been received to date. The letter is attached in Annex 6. The committee found out that Kilembe Mines Hospital is managed by Kilembe Mines Limited and the Government through Kasese District Local Government and Kasese Municipal Council. However, it has no board, no laboratory accreditation documents and official stamps, among others. Committee observations Kilembe Mines Limited is willing to continue partnering with the Government of Uganda to provide medical services at Kilembe Mines Hospital but the Government has been non- committal. The failure by the Government to provide guidance on the way forward as requested by the district leadership creates a lot of uncertainty and tension among the community. Currently, Kilembe Mines Hospital has no legal status within the Government structure despite offering the much-needed medical services to the people of Kasese, especially those living along the ranges of Mount Rwenzori. Lack of a legal status also erodes the confidence of health development partners and stakeholders in providing support to Kilembe Mines Hospital. Kilembe Mines Hospital, Kasese District Local Government and Kasese Municipal council are operating under an informal arrangement. The committee recommendations In the short-term, the Ministry of Health should engage Kilembe Mines Limited about the possibility of signing a bilateral agreement to offer health services to the community. This should include an evaluation of the repurposed facility opposite the old facility which is currently offering services to be supported as a health centre IV. Government obligations should include staffing, provision of medicines and sundries, primary health care, non-wage and additional services like imaging and dental should be included. The Solicitor-General should provide a legal opinion about the status of Kilembe Mines Hospital within one month of adoption of this report. The opinion of the Solicitor- General will provide a way forward to the Ministry of Health and Kilembe Mines Limited regarding the future of the hospital. The management of Kilembe Mines Limited should explore the option of establishing Kilembe Mines Hospital as a community health facility for eventual recognition and support by the Government. Physical state of Kilembe Mines Hospital Committee observations The original site of Kilembe Mines Hospital was severely destroyed and is prone to future flooding, meaning that we cannot revamp the hospital. Kilembe Mines Hospital provides services to a large catchment area. This includes six subcounties in the mountainous areas with a population of 350,000 and Bulembia Division with a population of 28,000. The current facility across the road is functional and is providing outpatient, inpatient, maternity and surgical services. Partners like Daktari from Belgium are willing to support the facility in terms of setting up infrastructure and provision of medical equipment. Recommendations of the committee The former site of Kilembe Mines Hospital should be condemned; there should be no future attempts to redevelop it. The Ministry of Health should expedite the process of bilateral agreement between Kilembe Mines Hospital and the Government so as not to discourage potential donors from supporting the health facility. Staffing levels of Kilembe Mines Hospital The committee recommends that the staff should be retained but in units where there is excess or might be redundant because of limited scope of services, some can be redistributed to nearby Government facilities.

8362 COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR Availability of essential medicines and health supplies Observations by the committee The Ministry of Health deactivated the credit line for emergency health supplies for Kilembe Mines Hospital and redistributed it to Katadoba HC III and the rest that are mentioned. There is a high patient turnout at the new site of Kilembe Mines Hospital and this is straining the already meagre resources. Currently the procurement of medicines and supplies at Kilembe Mines Hospital is through user fees and a monthly allocation of Shs 7 to 9 million provided by the district. Recommendations by the committee The Ministry of Health should restore the credit line for emergency medicines and health supplies for Kilembe Mines Hospital in the last quarter of this financial year to enable the facility to operate optimally. Availability of equipment at the hospital The committee recommended that the Minister of Health should harmonise opinions of the district leaders and the Diocese of Kasese in relation to the list of equipment ownership and the handover process. Functionality of nearby health centres Rukoki Health Centre IV The committee observations Rukoki is a high-volume health centre IV which operates in a very small space with limited essential medicines and health supplies – above, there is a picture of part of the health centre, which got burnt. Renovation/roofing of the main structure, which got burnt, has not been prioritised, yet the incident happened 18 months ago. Future expansion of the health facility will be hampered by unresolved land conflicts with the other Government facilities – there is a prison nearby. Committee observations The Ministry of Health should carry out a feasibility study on reroofing and renovating the burnt structure, vis-à-vis setting up a new structure. This should be done immediately. The conflict over ownership of the 10 acres of land owned by Rukoki should be resolved immediately, in order to cater for future expansion plans. The Ministry of Health should construct staff houses at Rukoki Health Centre IV, effective next financial year. Suitability of the proposed new site for construction of a hospital The committee was informed that Kilembe Mines Limited has offered Kilembe Mines Hospital six acres of land for the construction of a new hospital. The land is three kilometres from the former hospital and is located on a higher ground. It partly houses senior staff quarters at Kilembe Mines Limited. The committee was informed that the Office of the Prime Minister requested the Ministry of Water and Environment to conduct a geological survey on the new site to establish the level of risk in the event that River Nyamwamba floods again. However, the committee was not able to receive any feedback in regard to this report. Committee observations The proposed new site for the reconstruction of Kilembe Mines Hospital is the farthest from the water flow pathway of River Nyamwamba. There is no reliable early warning system about River Nyamwamba and it is likely to burst its banks again and cause flooding. Committee recommendations The Ministry of Water and Environment should conduct research on the suitability of the land at Kilembe Mines staff quarters for the construction of a health facility in the near future – this should be done before the end of this financial year. [Dr Ayume] SECTORAL COMMITTEE REPORT

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the chairperson of the Committee on Health, Dr Ayume, and the Members on the committee – for the comprehensive report on Kilembe Mines Hospital. Mr Speaker, as a ministry, we do associate with some of the committee’s findings, observations and recommendations. We have had several engagements with the Kasese District leadership – even with Members of Parliament from that area – and we have moved to implement some of the recommendations. For example, we do appreciate and agree that the population of Kilembe Mines is high. Therefore, we are upgrading Rukoki Health Center IV to the status of a hospital. However, in the meantime, we are putting up a health facility within the vicinity of Kilembe Mines, to serve the population. As for the other recommendations, we await the clearance of the legal status of Kilembe Mines. At the same time, we have moved to ask the district leadership to deploy all the workers of Kilembe Mines Hospital within the public facilities, where they are available, to decongest the health facilities around. Mr Speaker, as a ministry, we shall further internalise the committee’s recommendations and see the actions to take to ensure that the people of Kilembe Mines and Kasese get health services as they are entitled, and to ensure that we enhance and strengthen the facilities that are already available there. I thank you.

Mr Speaker, thank you very much for the opportunity. I want to thank the committee for the work they did by coming to Kasese to assess the situation on ground. Mr Speaker, I am the one who brought this to the Floor of Parliament. Why did we bring the matter to the Floor? It is because as the leadership of Kasese, the action by the Ministry of Health to deactivate the credit line for the supply of medicine to Kilembe Mines Hospital shocked all of us because that was really declaring people – almost saying that people should die. We are happy that the committee came but one of the recommendations that has been put in the report is what has made us happy. Personally, I am happy that they should reactivate the credit line for medical supplies. The minister has said that she has been consulting us but to be honest with this House, to date, the credit line for the medical supply has never been activated. And we are saying that building Kilembe Mines Hospital is a long-term project. The short-term intervention is to have the credit line for the medical supplies activated. The people in that area, it was not their option that they should be affected by the floods. After the hospital was affected by the floods, the Ministry of Health decided to deactivate the credit line for the medical supplies and that made the situation for these people even worse. I want to thank the Committee on Health for having recommended – (Member timed out.)

I thank the committee for having recommended, as a short-term intervention, to have the credit line for the medical supplies reactivated. This is where we have a problem; deciding to build Kilembe Mines Hospital at its original site and saying it should not be built, that is not a problem. We can choose any site but the credit line that is helping people receive supplies of medicine is a short-term intervention because when we do not have medicines now – the other area is long- term. What about the medicines now? That is where our point is and it is our position as the leadership of Kasese. The minister is here; he is from Kasese, and they are all here; that is our stand: We need medical supplies as a short- term intervention. Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Thank you. Yes, the Woman MP, Kasese?

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for this opportunity. I also add my voice to appreciate the chairperson of the Committee on Health and the entire committee for the detailed report presented. Mr Speaker, Kilembe Mines Hospital does not only serve the people of Kasese as the report is trying to say. The people of Bundibugyo and in fact, the entire Rwenzori Subregion use Kilembe Mines Hospital, especially in the areas of fractured bones. People who get into accidents across that region are all referred to Kilembe Mines Hospital. So, it is really my prayer that Government expedites the issue of considering giving Kilembe Mines Hospital a vote status so that our people are really helped. The second issue is in line with desilting rivers. In their report, I read here about desilting River Nyamwamba. In fact, we have a serious problem across the entire region. As you are aware, Mr Speaker, we are always affected by floods. If you go to Bundibugyo, there is a river called River Kiunya. There is a town council, which had been approved by the Ministry of Local Government, where people have already been displaced. People are already displaced because of desilting, which has caused a lot of flooding. So, it is my prayer that when River Nyamwamba is – (Member timed out.)

Thank you. Hon. Harold Muhindo? Let me finish with Kasese and Bundibugyo group. Hon. Acrobert Kiiza, for your information, even people from Mitooma District, it is Kilembe Mines Hospital that has been serving us, including people of Buhweju, especially on fractures. They are specialists and people from that region - now, I think people are going to Mbale and Kumi. That is a specialised hospital for the whole of the Western Region. Yes, Hon. Harold Muhindo?

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I also thank the committee for the report. I have three things, Mr Speaker, starting from that point. I personally come from a place closer to Kagando Hospital. Kagando Hospital is a good facility that has given health services to many people. This is, however, not friendly to the common man. I want to say that the local woman of Uganda – because even though we are neighbours – people have moved away from Kagando Hospital to Kilembe Mines Hospital even when they know that in Kilembe Mines Hospital they are not so sure of accommodation, but at least it is budget-friendly. The issue of the tripartite arrangement of ownership has left Kilembe Mines Hospital in balance. From the report here and the submission of the minister, it seems like until the arrangement of ownership is cleared, this is when Government is coming in. But I want to remind the Government that Kilembe Mines Hospital, the Government of Uganda, and Kasese Diocese are the three parties that make ownership. When the agreement expired, it automatically meant that Government takes over its role. These two partners came to complement the Government. Now that their mandate expired, the Government should continue with its role; nobody is going to remind you that you now begin to make- (Interjection) - Before the information, I, therefore, want to implore the Government to continue with its role to provide for the credit line and the other facilities. Mr Speaker, the minister has indicated very well that the staff from the hospital will be serving the population from the nearby facilities. I pray that the staff from the Kilembe Mines go back to the nearby facility that has been established so that they serve the community around Kilembe and all over the country. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I take this opportunity to thank the Committee on Health for a well, informing and elaborate report on Kilembe Mines Hospital; this sends a strong signal to the Government. It has opted in many cases to run away from its responsibilities, for example, what it did by cutting off the credit line without minding about the population that was benefitting from the hospital. This has recently also been witnessed in other ministries and departments. For example, because of high school dropouts during COVID time, they opted to close down all schools that had few students. Instead of creating an awareness campaign for students to go back to school, they opted to close them; this is the same case that is happening here. The issue of waiting for investors - I wonder, as a Member of Parliament - what if the investors do not come; what will happen to the people of Kasese and the western region that has been using that hospital? So Minister of Health who is here, we urgently want you to address that issue; you are not supposed to be waiting for investors. If they do not come, it means the Kilembe people or Kasese and the Western Region will not have the health facilities. Secondly, the issue of silting is very important because it is threatening hospitals; it is going to schools, people’s houses, settlements and everything. So, I think the Government should come up with a comprehensive plan on how to de-silt River Nyamwamba. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I want to add my voice to what my colleague from Bundibugyo raised and you added your voice. I come from Kyenjojo and most of my constituents are along the highway which is prone to accidents. In the previous days when Kilembe mines were still operating, on a weekly basis, I would send there some accident victims because some of us always carried those accident victims to Kilembe Mines Hospital. As we speak now, all our people in all those districts are stuck ranging from Mubende, Kagadi, Kibaale, Kyenjojo, Kyegegwa, Fort Portal, and wherever, because Kasese and Kilembe Mines Hospital specifically, is known for treating bones and fractures.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the committee for the good work. However, I am a little bit disappointed that the ministry decided to deactivate the credit line without consultation. If they did not have courtesy to consult the local leadership, then at least they should have consulted the area Members of Parliament because the appropriation for that money is done here and so, one cannot choose to deny their people. Kilembe Mines Hospital has been serving the whole of this country. You are aware the activities of Kilembe Mines recruit citizens across the country and they have been serving. Right now, I am treating my aunt who failed to get treatment from Kilembe. I had to bring her and treat her from home. I would like to agree with most of the recommendations of the committee but it is important that an alternative is found and established immediately. Secondly, I would like to thank the religious institutions that have continued to intervene where the Government cannot adequately do its work. Kasese and Fort Portal dioceses have been doing a good job. We should continue to thank them because they are very good partners in health services. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I was among Members of Parliament who went with the then Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Betty Aol, to see what happened in Kasese. At that time, there was a cold war between Parliament and the Executive. The then Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, first went to Kasese. Later, we went and the President found us there but we were locked in a hotel and stopped from going to see that hospital because the President was meant to be there at that particular time. Mr Speaker, when we got there, the situation was terrible; it was a catastrophe. If we are to speak facts, it is not easy to restore that hospital but the Government can secure money to restore it. Otherwise, generators and everything was covered by silt, big stones, trees, trailers and everything. The President, while there, gave assurance of putting into place that hospital. Government, how would you feel losing a Catholic Church’s hand or that of the Church of Uganda or Islamic faith giving assistance to a hospital? Visit all your districts – a majority of these hospitals are either Catholic-, Muslim- or Church of Uganda- founded. Government, you have nothing. Mr Speaker, the only answer to Kasese is the Government being fair to itself. The Catholic Church has the willingness. They do not cheat and are ready to give you support. They are pulling out of the hospital and you think that is very easy. The only remedy to Kasese is what the President promised. Let him put in place what he said while he was there so that they get a new hospital that is well furnished.

8371 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 26 APRIL 2023 Mr Speaker, the people of Kasese are still there and so is the hospital. Why is it that the Government went ahead to cut off the credit line? These people are there and need these services. I think we should just tell the Government to come up and give those people the medicine they need so that we save their lives. It is the duty of the Government to protect Ugandans and make them live healthy lives. Thank you.

Honourable minister, I have been interacting with leaders. The quick issue they want is the reactivation of the credit line. (Applause) They need that as soon as yesterday so that they can start surviving. The rest can come later. They are dying. Do you want to respond, specifically to that? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEALTH (GENERAL DUTIES) (Ms Anifa Kawooya: Thank you, Mr Speaker. Honourable colleagues, the pain that you feel for our people is the same that we feel. I want to say a word, as the minister from Kasese comes in. The reactivating of the credit line – the MoU was done between Kilembe Mines, of course, with support from Kasese Catholic Church and Joint Medical Stores. When it expired, the only way the ministry could do it was to have another MoU with Kilembe Mines or the district local council of Kasese. However, as the committee has said, we are still faced with the challenge of the legal status. As a ministry, we still need to sit with Kasese local leadership and work out how we can have an immediate solution by way of an MoU – either with the Joint Medical Stores or the National Medical Stores. However, we take it in good faith and shall expedite it. That is what I can say as of now.

Thank you. Now, I have seen that there are other agencies in between. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, let us assign this to you; that you work with the Minister of Health to bring the Attorney-General on board. I am also going to personally be involved. From here, I am going to call the Solicitor-General to ask why this should take forever. Which excuse can you give for denying people medicine? Hon. Kabbyanga, did you want to say something about this? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY AND NATIONAL GUIDANCE (NATIONAL GUIDANCE) (Mr Godfrey Kabbyanga) : Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. I stand here as a minister from Kasese but also as the former Mayor of Kasese Municipality who supervised that hospital as well as a former employee of Kilembe Mines for 15 years. Therefore, I know the history of that hospital very well. I think as soon as the tripartite agreement collapsed - because the Catholic Church was no longer interested in going ahead with the tripartite - first of all, they did not want to continue operating from Kilembe because of the floods. They wanted to operate from Kasese Town where they have enough land. The three parties; the Government of Uganda, Kilembe Mines Ltd and Kasese Catholic Diocese did not agree on that relocation. Therefore, the Catholic Church pulled out and decided to set up its own hospital. Unfortunately, when they pulled out, the agreement was about to expire so they said that they were no longer interested in the tripartite agreement. Now, what should have been done, and what I have been advising was, since the tripartite had collapsed, we needed to go into a bilateral agreement between Kilembe Mines and the Government of Uganda. That should have been the first thing to be done. Even deactivating it was because there was no relationship; the three entities had gone their separate ways. Therefore, the two, which are both Government and related, should have gone into a bilateral agreement. Before that, the medicine was being purchased from Joint Medical Stores, which is owned by the Catholic Medical Bureau and Protestant Medical Bureau; they serve their hospitals. This would now mean that the medicine would be purchased from National Medical Stores. All those are legal issues, which should have been done, but now, the committee has come

8374 COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR However, I commence with an appreciation to you, Mr Speaker, sir, for the undertaking and the commitment to intervene and have to fast-track the restoration of the credit line for the emergency supplies and the medicines. Mr Speaker, I would request that you go the extra mile because the facility in the new location has no functional ambulance. Moreover, the report is unequivocal, it mentions the equipment. Although there is a discrepancy in the two lists that were handed over to the CAO by the partners, the ambulance that is functional is there, but it has been seen labelled “St. Mary’s” - I do not know whether it is by Kasese Catholic Diocese, or whatever. Mr Speaker, now that you have offered to support, you would rather spare more of your efforts to ensure that this facility that has no functional ambulance gets the services or benefits from the services of this one which is available. But most importantly, in your report, when you say any investor that comes to take up Kilembe Mines, as part of his corporate social responsibility, should construct this Kilembe Mines Hospital in another location, and the good Minister, whom I want to salute, also says that because of the Tripartite, we would rather shift to the bilateral. Honestly, Government that is spending huge sums of taxpayers’ money in the neighbouring country-By the way, Mr Speaker, Kilembe Mines Hospital, I am reliably informed serves even communities that are leaving across the neighbouring country of Congo. As he laughs, he knows that we are talking of a “Yiira Republic” that stretches beyond Uganda. Now, if the Government is talking of bilateral when they have not even secured any investor to enter such a memorandum, are they any serious, Mr Speaker, sir? Let the Government get serious and commit themselves to construction- because they have what it takes to build a fully-fledged hospital to replace the one which has been demolished by River Nyamwamba. However, River Nyamwamba, also in the new 21 st Century, there are mitigation measures that could have been dammed although my colleague mentions rainwater harvesting, including floods, there could be dams, massive planting of trees along it to help control or even nip in the bud the busting of its banks and other mitigation measures. Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Thank you. Honourable colleagues, the Minister has been intervening in these issues. We have agreed on a way forward as far as addressing this matter is concerned. I now put the question that the report of the Committee on Health on the field visit Kasese to assess the status of Kilembe Mines Hospital be to be adopted. (Question put and agreed to.) Report adopted.

Mr Speaker, if you could, give me just a minute before I go to the prayers. The office of the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) worked with the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development and Hon. Dr Sam Mayanja came to Kasese and made directives. Among the directives, he said the cultivators should be given their land. He even sent a team of surveyors to go and help the cultivators regain their land. Unfortunately, the minister in charge of the presidency, Hon. Milly Babalanda Babirye,

Thank you, Mr Speaker. You had, with your indulgence, allowed me to remind the Prime Minister of her earlier response to Hon. Kawalya’s troubles in Kampala - that the Prime Minister’s assurance is not adequate because the torrential rains pounding Kampala and the entire country are still on the horizon. The Prime Minister said that they were doing an assessment but it might rain tonight. If I were the Prime Minister, I would have assessed with a truck of tarpaulins and some food because these residents have no dwelling places. So, when it rains tonight, there will be trouble. Secondly, you need to plan for a cholera outbreak; the red flag is on the horizon. When you hear these torrential rains in Kampala, be sure that the toilets have been equally flooded. I am sure you do not have emergency water; it is not part of your plans. If I were the Prime Minister, I would have emergency water plans in my Government. If I were a Prime Minister, I would have emergency toilets in these situations. Please assure the country; your submission on this matter is not satisfactory, I am afraid. Thirdly, on the matter of Sudan, I am ably represented by the submission of my colleague, Hon. Ssemujju. Mr Speaker, the RSF, as described and as we know them, was an ethnic militia created by Gen. Bashir. Those who have heard of the “Janjaweed militia”; this is the group. They were recruited and they slaughtered the people of South Sudan in Darfur. It was a matter of time that one day, they would turn on their own. So, as long as people who slaughtered your people in Kasese are still masquerading around, one day, they will turn on their recruiters and deployers. And as a nation, we must be on guard. I hope this House took note of the submission of the elder, Hon. Cecilia Ogwal, on some people having rights against others; that while unarmed citizens are unable to go around the country to raise their voices, some armed people are all over the place. That we have a serving military officer all over the place, claiming to be canvassing for the presidency, but we have a law prohibiting active UPDF officers from engaging in partisan politics, then you see Government ministers falling over each other over his promise, and then we have a Prime Minister unable to prevail over her ministers. This is a country out of turn. Therefore, the Prime Minister needs to inform this country and Parliament whether there is somebody in control. Otherwise, if we continue the way we are doing, we shall be compelled to inform the population to stop cooperating with people in uniform because there is no one in charge. So, you rise up and do what you want to do – and unfortunately, at this stage, we would have been hearing the work of the African Union (AU). The AU is an incubator of despotism in Africa; toothless - just a talking shop. They should have seen this coming. They are all over the place incubating and keeping dictators, and despots. Mr Speaker, I encourage the Prime Minister to continue doing what she is doing. She has accounted for 208 plus six. From your account of the registered, 76 are not accounted for. Now that there is no Government in Sudan, make sure you are in touch and report appropriately. [Ms Amero] MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. I thank the committee for the elaborate report presented. However, on the allocation to the transport sector, I saw some money proposed to go towards the rehabilitation of Entebbe Airport, phases I and II put at 80 per cent. Then there is the development of Kasese Airport at 88 per cent. However, Mr Speaker, Arua Airfield, which was supposed to be upgraded to an international airport, has not been mentioned in this budget. That airfield, which is supposed to be upgraded to an airport, will enhance trade in this region. It will create employment opportunities for the youth and the traders in this region, and it will enhance the foreign income for this country. I implore the committee and the Ministry of Works and Transport, to have that considered because works, which had started have stalled. We are wondering what is happening to the upgrading of that airfield to an airport.

8065 THE E LEVENTH P ARLIAMENT OF U GANDA TUESDAY , 18 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. iv) Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute, Kasese. Likewise, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives has got entities with and without a Vote status. They are all clearly stated in the report. The tourism development programme under 3.1; the half-year financial performance for Financial Year 2022/2023 is well elaborated. In brief, I want to say that the tourism programme covers the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and its five subventions, which are clearly named there. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, and the Gender and Equity Compliance details have been clearly stated in the report. In accordance with section 13(11)(e) and (i) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2015, the minister responsible for finance in consultation with the Equal Opportunities Commission, should issue a certificate: a) Certifying that the budget is gender and equity responsive; and b) Specifying measures taken to equalise opportunities for men and women, persons with disabilities and other marginalised groups. The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities registered a huge decline in gender and equity compliance with a performance of 70 per cent, compared to 80.6 per cent performance in the previous financial year. This is a 10.6 per cent point drop from the Financial Year 2022/2023. Mr Speaker, I want to refer Members to Table 1 on the overview of budget allocation to the Tourism Development Programme. At the programme level, the budget is expected to increase effectively by Shs 24.437 billion. Notable increments of Shs 40.793 billion have been made in the development budget of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities. Members can refer to the table above. Table 2 – Half-year financial performance of the Financial Year 2022/2023 for the entire programme, including subventions. The table clearly elaborates in terms of figures. The tourism programme comprised –

8093 THE E LEVENTH P ARLIAMENT OF U GANDA TUESDAY , 18 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. iii) That Shs 2 billion be provided for purchase of hand tractors to open more land for cotton production, especially now that most of the cotton farmers have lost their oxen. Vote 160 - Uganda Coffee Development Authority The committee notes that the Uganda Coffee Development Authority closed the Financial Year 2021 with outstanding coffee seedlings arrears of Shs 15.97 billion. Cabinet took a decision to procure and distribute coffee seedlings to farmers before Season B 2022 - that is September to December - and ends as a one-off intervention. This resulted in additional Shs 26.3 billion. The total comes to Shs 42 billion but no budget has been provided for the settlement of these arrears. The committee recommends that Shs 42 billion be provided in the budget for the Financial Year 2023/2024 to settle all the outstanding areas. On the construction of coffee analytical laboratories, the Uganda Coffee Development Authority plans to contract a central coffee quality certification laboratory in Kampala to handle the bulk of exports by exporters based in Kampala, Wakiso and those other districts. Additional two regional laboratories will be constructed in Kasese and Mbale to support and serve exporters in the areas of Arabica coffee growing. This activity requires Shs 10.2 billion and the committee recommends that this money be provided. On coffee research, the committee observed that there are limited funds for coffee research to develop coffee varieties that are high yielding, disease and drought resistant. This activity requires Shs 4.5 billion. The committee recommends that this money be provided to UCDA for coffee research. Coffee value addition The Committee recommends that Government reallocates Shs 37 billion from Science, Technology and Innovation to UCDA to ensure efficiency and accountability for the utilisation of funds. The next pages, Mr Speaker, are about key unfunded and underfunded priorities for which I will not go into detail. You will study them by yourself. I now go to page 38 on the supply tables for the Financial Year 2023/2024. Based on the aforementioned observations and recommendations, the committee recommends that the House approves the budget of the Votes under its jurisdiction as follows: i) Vote 010: Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries. The total allocation is Shs 583,533,130,878; ii) Vote 121: Dairy Development Authority - Shs 16,676,013,100; iii) Vote 125: National Agriculture Genetic Resource Centre and Data Bank; a total allocation of Shs 64,775,124,684; iv) Vote 142: National Agriculture Research Organisation, total allocation is Shs 181,487,209,273. v) Vote 152: NAADS Secretariat. The total allocation is Shs 41,611,610,000; vi) Vote 155: Uganda Cotton Development Organisation. The total allocation is of Shs 5,370,758,396; vii) Vote 160: Uganda Coffee Development Authority. The total allocation of Shs 44,756,429,653; viii) Votes 601-999: Local Governments. The total allocation is Shs 141,905,532,140, giving a total of Shs 1,080,115, 808,124. Mr Speaker and honourable members, I beg to submit.

1.O INTRODUCTIOIT Rt. Hon. Speaker and Hon, Members; In accordance with Article 155 (4) of the constitution of the Republic of Uganda, Section 12(1) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2O1S and Rule l4g (l) of the Rules of Procedure of Parliament; the Sectoral Committee on Tourism, Trade and Industry scrutinised the Ministerial Poliry Statements and Budget Estimates for the Ministry of rourism, wildlife and Antiquities and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives for the Financial Year 2023 /24 and begs to report. l.1Scopc The committee on Tourism, Trade and Industry considered the Ministerial policy Statements and Budget Estimates for the Financial year 2023 /24 for the Ministry of Tourism, Witdlife & Antiquities and Ministry of Trade, tndustry & Cooperatives. a) The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has Entities with and without a vote status. Those with a vote status include; r Vote 022 - Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities . Vote 117 - Uganda Tourism Board Entities without a vote status include; o Uganda Wildlife Authority o Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre r Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute, Jinja . Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute, Kasese b) Likewise the Ministry of Trade, Industries and Cooperatives has got entities with and without a vote status. Those with a vote status include; r Vote 015 - Ministry of Ttade, Industry a4d Coo peratives 6 F [N

. Vote 154 - Uganda National Bureau of Standards o Vote 306 - Uganda Export Promotion Board Entities without a vote status . Uganda Development Corporation . Uganda Warehouse Receipt Systems Authority r Management Training and Advisory Centre 2.O METIIOIX)LOGY While considering the Ministerial Policy Statements and Budget Estimates for the two Ministries mentioned above; the Committee utilised the following methodolory: 2.l Meetlage Erternal aecttngE The Committee held meetings with the following entities: Minietry of Tourlsrn, Wlldlife & Antiquittea o Vote O22 - Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities o Vote l17 - Uganda Tourism Board . Uganda Wildlife Authority o Uganda Wildlife Education Conservation Centre . Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute, Jinja o Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute, Kasese MtniEtry of Tradc, Iadurtry & Cooperatlvea o Vote O 15 - Ministry of Trade, Industry and Coope . Vote 154 - Uganda National Bureau of Standards ! Vote 306 - Uganda Export Promotions Board (UEPB) r Uganda Development Corporation (UDC ratives 7 \ M t n tNI

3.O THE TOURISM DEVEII)PMEI{T PROGRTJUME The Tourism Development Programme comprises the following votes and affiliated institutions: . Vote 022 - Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities r Vote 117 - Uganda Tourism Board Affiliated institutions : . Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) . Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Cente (UWEC) o Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute, Kasese o Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute, Jinja 3.L Tourtrm Program Half Yeer Perfornaace tA 2t22l2g Tourism program covers Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and its five subventions namely; Uganda Witdlife Authority, Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute, Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre, the Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute and Uganda Tourism Board. 3.2 MTWA'a Gcnder & Equity compllance In accordance with section 13 (11) (e) (i) of the public Finance Management Act, 2015, the Minister responsible for Finance shall in consultation with the Equal Opportunities Commission issue a Certificate: a) Certifying that the Budget is gender and equity responsive; and b) Speciffing measures taken to equalise opportunities for men, women, persons with disabilities and grouPs. r marginalised The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife & Antiquities registered a uge decline in gender & equity compliance with a performance of 7Oo/o compared to 80.60/o 9

1O. I Propoccd Committcc Re.Allocatloas The committee observed that the Tourrsm Development program entities are grossly underfunded the committee was presented several unfunded priorities however, the following are considered very critical and should be provided for within the financral year 2023 /24 through reallocation as follows; Identllted Pr{orltlca ead of Rcalloc.tcd Funds slthln Touriam Developrnc at Progran Recurre nt Dev't UWEC- Construction of Wall fence - 3.2Bn, a Modern Pier - 2.0 and Regional Satellite Educational Center- in Mbale; Eastern region- 7Bn 12.2 UHTTI- Jinja to fully fund implementation of structure 1.5 UWTRI - Kasese to fully fund implementation of structure to conduct Wildlife related research 2 o22 Ministry of Wildlfe, Tourism and Antiquities Provide for Unfunded Priorities of Kafu tourist stop over development Consultations, land valuation and acquisition( 1.Bn) and Amuru Hotspring to conduct Appraisal, land valuation, 4 L- 1.8 39

Thank you, Mr Speaker. The issue that I am raising regards the continued violation of the rights of some Women Members of Parliament by security officials and RDCs - (Interjection) - yes. Just last week, the Minister of General Duties, Hon. Kasule Lumumba, updated us on the progress of the Sustainable Development Goals and one of the 17 SDGs is on gender equality and ensuring that there is peace, and that women are able to exercise their fundamental human rights. The Women Members of Parliament are also elected. Last year, a Woman Member of Parliament organised Women’s Day celebrations and spent her money, but the night before the event, the function was cancelled by the RDC – (Interjection)– yes, it was that bad. I left it to pass thinking that this year would be better. Mr Speaker, you have seen Women MPs continuously being harassed. We had Mityana last week, we had Luweero, Ngora and Kasese. A Member of Parliament is number 17 on the Order of Precedence in this country; an RDC is number 33 together with the district chairperson. Why should the Women Members of Parliament continue being Members of Parliament when they are being harassed and cannot exercise their rights? A Member of Parliament organises a fundraising -

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would like to make some brief comments, as per the rules on the responses by the Prime Minister. On question number one by Hon. Allan Mayanja, I would like to commend the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries for the timely response and to the satisfaction of the honourable member in providing the pesticides and spray pumps that were requested. I also commend the ministry for being on standby to address the same concern. Hon. Paul Omara raised the question that the Government is pressed in terms of the resource envelope and Shs 42.9 billion lies outside as tax arrears, but the Government has not facilitated the process of recovering that amount. I urge the Prime Minister to take this matter seriously because we are going into the budgeting process. The Government is already, as we have been told, pressed to raise more resources. We are aware that new tax proposals are being made. This amount, if recovered, would help. Mr Speaker, the Government has collected only Shs 428.7 million out of the Shs 42.9 billion – that is just under one per cent of what is outside there, yet it is now two or three years. Therefore, the Prime Minister should work closely with the enforcement agencies to recover this amount. On the amount projected for Financial Year 2023/2024, which is Shs 10.6 billion, I feel – basing on the figures that the Prime Minister has presented here, in the two preceding financial years, the tax amounted to Shs 43.4 billion. I do not know the justification the Prime Minister has now used to reduce it from the average of Shs 20 billion per year to 10.6 billion. I think this is a low target in terms of what the Government has been able to establish. The question raised by Hon. Florence Kabugho was more about the timeframe. The Prime Minister has given a roadmap on the elevation of the health centre, but the honourable member required the timeframe. I think the people of Kasese are very much pressed and would like to know when the UPDF Engineering Brigade would begin the elevation of the facility. There was a question raised by Hon. Aisa Agaba on the issue of the cost of getting the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) reports for processing death certificates. I would like to propose, in the alternative, that since the subcounties are now offering the notification of death and they are filling them [Ms Nabbanja] PRIME MINISTER’S TIME

4.5:t 6 there's only 1 mdrcator wrth data and 2 wrthout There is no rndicator whrch rs globally computed for thrs goal According to Office of the Prrme Miruster, the number of deaths, missrng persons and drrectlv aflected persons attrrbuted to drsasters per 100,000 populatron decreased from 148 persons rn 2017 to 103 persons rn 2018 Thrs rmplies that drsasters reduced rn the country. This was due to government rntervenhons hke relocatrng people from dangerous spots on the mountans to safer places and plantrng trees around rlvers hke rrver Nyamwamba in Kasese. Also, the government has rmplemented and formulated a National Chmate Change Pohcy Thrs is a national sectoral pohcy of Uganda Its mam obiective is to ensure that all stakeholders address chmate change rmpacts and therr causes through appropnate measures, whrle promotrng sustainable development and a green economy Goal 14 on life below water. The Oceans, seas and other marrne resources are essentral to human well-berng and social and economrc development worldwide Therr conservatron and sustainable use are central to achrevrng the 2030 Agenda. Thrs goal has only 1 rndicator apphcable to Uganda However, rt has no data points Relatedly, according to the state of envrronment report 2020, it was estabLshed that, Uganda's water resources cover about 16 percent of the country's total area The brggest pressure on the 33

Madam Speaker, it was demolished. They alleged that it carried some ghosts and that some women were suffering miscarriages because of that machine. I do not know. Disaster Risk Management Plan The Disaster Risk Management Plan was approved by Cabinet and presented before Parliament in November 2022. The document was launched in a bid to attain donor support on 21 September 2023 with a letter requesting for support also written. Funds are still being awaited from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to embark on the implementation of the planned activities. Disaster Preparedness and Management Bill The regulatory impact assessment was conducted and the principles are ready to be tabled before Cabinet this April. A tentative roadmap was developed as we await the approval of the principles. Resettlement through physical relocation and cash transfers to vulnerable households Following the completion of the additional 42 houses in Bunambutye Resettlement Area in Bulambuli District, a team is on the ground right now to ensure that 42 households that are highly prone to landslides are relocated and resettled from across five districts in Elgon subregion by the end of this week. This shall bring the total number of houses completed in Bunambutye to 305. An additional 50 houses have been planned for construction during quarter four of Financial Year 2022/2023. Further to the above, we are implementing a cash transfer strategy that was approved by the Cabinet on 12 September 2022 as a suitable option to resettle people at risk of landslides in Elgon sub-region. With the support of Give Direct International, a partner, 4,000 households have been targeted from the high-risk districts of Bududa (2,050), Manafwa (900), Namisindwa (500) and Sironko (550). Identification and registration in Bududa District has been completed for 2,116 households and validation is ongoing. Registration is on-going in Manafwa to be followed by Sironko and Namisindwa districts respectively. Each registered household at high risk of landslides in Elgon sub-region will be supported with around Shs 17 million. Shs 10 million is from the Government of Uganda and the NGO – Give Direct – will give Shs 7 million to each beneficiary. The internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the districts of Kasese, Kayunga and Ntoroko Land was identified and bought to resettle internally-displaced persons from the districts of Kasese and Kayunga. A total of 200 acres has been secured in each of the districts.

7826 MINISTERIAL STATEMENT Additionally, relief food and tarpaulins have been sent to Kasese and Ntoroko for the IDPs in the camps during this month of March. We also sent 20,000 kilogrammes of maize flour and 10,000 kilogrammes of beans to each of these districts, with 164 and 100 pieces of tarpaulins respectively. On food security Basing on the Integrated Phase Classification (IPC) food security bulletin projections of September 2022 to January 2023 and U-NIEWS Bulletin, Karamoja was predicted to face food insecurity. Subsequently, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development released Shs 20 billion for relief food for Karamoja and other areas across the country. A projected amount of 3,348,200 kilogrammes of maize and 1,674,100 kilogrammes of beans is to be procured. Relief interventions will be provided on a case by case basis from the MAM impact on other regions in the country. Assessments and continuous monitoring of the hazard events A food security and nutrition assessment with support from UN agencies and OPM, led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries and the Ministry of Health, is being conducted in Karamoja to inform the food security and nutrition status for the coming period. Continuous monitoring of hazard events in addition to updates from the district disaster management committees, through the National Emergency Coordination and Operation Centre (NECOC), is ongoing. Products from UNMA such as the 10 days forecast shall inform on the progress of the rain. The Government of Uganda is partnering with the Uganda Red Cross Society to strengthen community-based disaster risk reductions and management. Early warning systems/ messages, assessments and community preparedness plans are some of the activities undertaken to build community resilience to hazards and disasters. Reporting through the NECOC toll free line – we all know the number - 0800-177777 – especially for human-induced hazards has been done and is continuously being taken. Madam Speaker, as I conclude, these are some of the key challenges faced by our department. No funding has been advanced to the Disaster Risk Management Plan by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development since it was approved by Cabinet on 11 July 2022. The funding requirement for the short- term period between 2022/2023 to 2024/2025, equivalent to the presidential pledge of US$ 50 million (Shs 185 billion) has not yet been released from a total of Shs 867 billion over the 10 years. Similarly, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development is yet to release the Government of Uganda component under the cash transfer for resettlement in the Elgon subregion. The amount of relief food required vis-a-vis the frequency and magnitude of disasters is high. I thank you, Madam Speaker.

Thank you. I would like to thank the honourable minister and indeed you, Madam Speaker, for guiding that the issue of disaster is supposed to be handled from a multi-sectoral approach. Recently, we had floods along Lake Albert and indeed, many committees were supposed to be relocated, but the ministry did not do anything. Houses were washed down, including those which were beyond the legal 200 meters. In relation to that, you talked about the roads. How I wish the Minister for Works and Transport was here. On the issue of Kasese,

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I begin by thanking Government for identifying land, and procuring the same for the people who are internally displaced. However, for the case of Kasese; last year in March, the Prime Minister in this House told us that land had been procured for the people in the internally displaced camp in Muhokya. However, up to today, people are still in the camp, living in terrible conditions. I want to

Madam Speaker, at least I have got somebody appreciating Government. I remember when we, in the Office of the Prime Minister, decided to use the Shs 5 billion to procure land and to restore the health facilities. Some people were complaining that providing relief items all the time is not the answer. I am happy to see that the honourable member at least appreciated it. We are going to look for money out of the little they have given us to see that we procure those other two pieces of land and also do the same in Kasese. The Kasese land had some problems. The families that sold the land went to the IGG, saying that the individual had not shared the money with the family members. However, the IGG has cleared it now. So, I want to answer the member from Kasese who asked about this; the IGG has cleared that issue and Government bought this land using the resources that you, people, allocated. The people are now going to settle on that land. Thank you. PRIME MINISTER’S TIME [Ms Nabbanja]

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Greetings from the people of Bugangaizi East. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, I have been hearing about compensations in Karamoja, Bugisu and everywhere. However, we have people who were moved from Mpokya since 1992, and they are all over Uganda - Kasese, Kamwenge, Bugangaizi East in Kakumiro District, Kagadi, and Isingiro. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, when do you plan to compensate – okay, while some were compensated, others have not been compensated. When are you compensating the people that were moved from Mpokya? Thank you.

Those are the answers we got. Remember the answer on how Mzee Muhojo of Kasese died. It sounds like the same answer given by the Prime Minister. I think what we need to do - and I am aware the honourable member from Kalangala is ready with her motion and I gave this House notice about it - to investigate the abuse of human rights on landing sites. That motion, Madam Speaker, once carried by the House, will give us an understanding of who is actually killing our people on the lakes. We live with these people; they tell us who is fishing illegally and accusing them of doing so in return. Our people have been rendered slaves. Some of these communities have only known fishing as a source of livelihood. I do PRIME MINISTER’S TIME [Mr Mpuuga]

4.5:t 6 there's only 1 mdrcator wrth data and 2 wrthout There is no rndicator whrch rs globally computed for thrs goal According to Office of the Prrme Miruster, the number of deaths, missrng persons and drrectlv aflected persons attrrbuted to drsasters per 100,000 populatron decreased from 148 persons rn 2017 to 103 persons rn 2018 Thrs rmplies that drsasters reduced rn the country. This was due to government rntervenhons hke relocatrng people from dangerous spots on the mountans to safer places and plantrng trees around rlvers hke rrver Nyamwamba in Kasese. Also, the government has rmplemented and formulated a National Chmate Change Pohcy Thrs is a national sectoral pohcy of Uganda Its mam obiective is to ensure that all stakeholders address chmate change rmpacts and therr causes through appropnate measures, whrle promotrng sustainable development and a green economy Goal 14 on life below water. The Oceans, seas and other marrne resources are essentral to human well-berng and social and economrc development worldwide Therr conservatron and sustainable use are central to achrevrng the 2030 Agenda. Thrs goal has only 1 rndicator apphcable to Uganda However, rt has no data points Relatedly, according to the state of envrronment report 2020, it was estabLshed that, Uganda's water resources cover about 16 percent of the country's total area The brggest pressure on the 33

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I join the rest of my honourable colleagues to pay tribute to our late Speaker. I would describe him as an environmentalist. His love for nature and the environment was so high. He went to Kasese after the floods, and emphasised the need for tree planting and the protection of the environment. He was also an inspiration to the young people and legislators in this House. He would give everyone an opportunity to speak, even when one had not gone to his office to request – (Applause)– just like you have given me this opportunity today. Even when you made a mistake, he would keep encouraging and giving you time to express yourself. I learned a lot of things, especially when it comes to the environment. When I got in contact with him about the famine in Teso, he asked me one thing: “Why don’t you capitalise on encouraging people to plant trees instead of cutting them down?” It gave me an opportunity to go back to the constituency and encourage our people to plant 10 trees on the day they get married, and that if they give birth, ensure that they plant a tree to remember their child’s birthday. I would love to thank him for that. One of the last words – and the last time I spoke to him, he told me three things: Hon. Alobo – (Member timed out.)

Thank you, Madam Speaker. First of all, I want to deliver to you greetings from Kasese. I lost an uncle and I have just returned. Madam Speaker, at the burial of my uncle, they asked me to deliver this appreciation to you in regard to your letter dated 7 February 2023. You gave attention when one of our senior citizens aged 75 years was abducted, illegally detained in an illegal facility, tortured and murdered and his body was dumped in Mulago Hospital. Your letter addressed to the Minister for Internal Affairs generated a response from the minister dated 14 February 2023 and also a letter from the Minister for the Presidency dated 9 February. Finally, there was a letter from the Minister for Internal Affairs addressed to the IGP. Specifically, Madam Speaker, you directed that the murder of the senior citizen be comprehensively investigated and action taken. All these letters are addressed to the IGP. Specifically, the Minister for Internal Affairs – Gen. Kahinda Otafiire - directed the IGP to respond within seven working days and give you a copy. I have just come from your office and this copy of the report from the IGP is not yet in your office. I look at this as something fundamentally wrong and this speaks volumes to our systems. A Minister for Internal Affairs is the main supervisor of the IGP. I do not know under what condition of law the IGP can ignore clear instructions from the Speaker and the minister and not take action. It is now three weeks and the IGP was given only seven working days. The reason I took the Floor is basically to ask a procedural question. Madam Speaker, do we still have a country that is governed by a set of laws, procedures and systems? Is the IGP of Uganda now the supervisor and champion of crime and criminality? The people of Kasese want accountability. The body was buried in a city mortuary. The same office of the police went and exhumed the body without a court order. Who is this IGP or police system that wants to make this country uncomfortable? COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

7611 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 16 MARCH 2023 it back. No, keep it aside until they are ready to use it because once they learn how to use it, even you the leaders, will have less problems; you will be able to tell them, “There is your money; go and use it,” because the money is there. People need patient sensitisation and not bureaucrat kweheneenga . Kweheneenga - you remember the story in the Bible when Jesus visited two sisters; Mary and the other one. I know them in Runyankore; Mariam na Mariza . The other one was okweheneenga; busy cooking and washing dishes while Mariam was sitting listening to the word of Jesus. Jesus said, “This one is blessed because she has been here listening to the message.” The other one was just cooking, washing plates, running up and down but with no value addition. When cooking and washing plates, what value addition are you making? Mariam was adding value to herself by listening to the message of Jesus. It is in the Bible; I am not the one who wrote it. Therefore, we do not want these people running up and down doing nothing; no. Let us take time and convince them. By the way, you should be very careful because some years back, I went to Kasese, to Mubuku Irrigation Scheme where I found a man called Mudusu, growing mangoes. I think he must still be there. He said, “I did this when I heard your speech” - My speech on the radio. I also went to Rwengaaju and our man there told me, “We heard what you said.” Recently, I was in Paicho and a man there who I visited with his wife told me, “I heard what you were saying on the radio.” Just imagine Museveni from Kampala but these people in Paicho heard me and the one of Kasese also heard me - You can go and check with them. Did you hear Museveni? Did you do what you heard him saying? If they can hear me who is so far away, how about the people who are near? Therefore, we are the ones to cause socio- economic transformation and this is principle No. 3 of the NRM principles. You, the Members of Parliament, should take more time with the people. Do not go and just lecture, “Si ndio?” The man is just talking to himself, sibwekityo ? No, talk and let them also talk to you and then try to discern what is holding them back. Do not buy food and all these things. If they do not want to come, let them not come. Tell them, “I don’t have money to buy food and all that,” because you are not a hotel. They are laughing at me because they think I am an idiot. Awo Omusoga wakobera nti, ono omusadha tayidhi kyalikukoba. Nkiidhi . The people who go to church; does the Reverend feed them? It is because you have misled them. In the United States - because I hear many people like the United States - if you want to be President, you declare. You say, “I want to be president and this is what I want to do.” And the people who believe in what you are saying fund you. If they do not bring enough funds, you leave it and say, “I have not got enough funders.” These are the democracies you admire, but here, you have turned it upside down – and it is not correct. I will also be involved because I am going to tour all the zones. I will be touring two zones per month and I am sure some people will listen to what I am saying because they have done it before. I have succeeded in the Cattle Corridor with the dairy. I have succeeded in the Kisozi area with the four-acre model or less. We have succeeded in Rwengaaju – Nyakana is our active person there. We have succeeded in Masaka – there is some little progress with coffee in Masaka. Even in Ibanda, there is some progress with coffee. We have succeeded in Kalangala with palm oil and in Bundibugyo with cocoa and coffee as well as vanilla – although vanilla is very erratic. So, we can succeed. So, please, do not start talking of changing modes. This is their money and we must insist on that – Mukungaanye ekibiina kyamwe ekya SACCO. Somebody wrote to me about the “Bol i Cups ” in Acholi. Bol i Cups are the village-based

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker, for your very kind heart. I have just alerted you, Madam Speaker – As I was walking into the Chamber, I received a call from my community that an international bridge had given way and collapsed. This is the international border between Bwera, Mpondwe and the actual border. First of all, we would like to thank Government, specifically the President, that when it gave way in 2020, I alerted the President and he took action by directing the Minister of Works and Transport. Madam Speaker, I am asking very kindly that in the same spirit, Government undertakes - I have just communicated with the manager, UNRA in Kasese and he is right now on site. The feedback that I have just gotten from the manager is that they do not have capacity to address a challenge of that scale. I am asking you very kindly to direct the Minister of Works and UNRA to ensure that they mobilise and assemble the technological capabilities and structural support that we need to have that challenge addressed as soon as immediately. I really want to appreciate you for your generosity.

Madam Speaker, this is an occurrence that has just happened and has been reported. I request that the district local government of Kasese makes the report available to the relevant ministry - in my humble opinion, the Ministry of Works and Transport - to see if there is something that can be done in the interim or under an emergency arrangement. I beg to submit.

Ministry of Works - Gen. Katumba, you are welcome. While you were away, we got a report here of a bridge in Kasese that has given way.

7223 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 1 MARCH 2023 Road reconstruction When the road condition deteriorates to a very poor state, exhibiting weak and deteriorated pavement layers with a non-functional drainage system, it requires full replacement. Reconstruction is undertaken to rebuild the road pavement and drainage system. In some instances, improvement of the subgrade strength and geometric realignment may be required – I gave examples of Matugga- Kapeeka Road and Mutukula-Kyotera-Masaka Road. The frequency of intervention depends on the state of road deterioration, which often triggers outcry from the road users for intervention. Road upgrading Road upgrading includes works that improve the level of service of the road to beyond that of its original standard. Activities like road widening, lane addition, geometric improvement, pavement works and related auxiliary works are executed – I gave the example of Rwenkunye-Apac Road. On-going national roads projects Periodic maintenance UNRA is currently carrying out periodic maintenance on two paved national roads covering a total of 93 kilometres with a funding commitment of about Shs 13 billion over the next two years. There are a number of tables there and in Table 1, you will find those roads. I request honourable Members to look at those tables as we refer to them. Rehabilitation projects There is ongoing rehabilitation of six paved national roads covering a total distance of 531 kilometres with a funding commitment of about Shs 682 billion over a period of the next three years. The roads are at different levels of implementation, as shown in table two. Further, a total of seven road rehabilitation projects covering a total distance of 324 kilometres were substantially completed in the Financial Year 2021/2022. These projects have outstanding payments such as retention funds in accordance with the contractual terms amounting to approximately Shs 55 billion. The projects which are done include: - Namunsi-Sironko-Muyembe-Kapchorwa road (65KMs), phase one and two; - Masaka Town roads (7.3 KMs); - Nakalama-Tirinyi-Mbale (93KMs) including Iganga, Busembatia and Namutumba Town roads; - Fort Portal-Hima (55KMs); - Kyenjojo-Fort Portal; and - Hima-Katunguru and Kasese Town roads and Hima service roads. Upgrading projects Currently, there are 20 ongoing road upgrading projects. These roads are being moved from gravel to tarmac. They are being upgraded to paved standards across the country covering a total of 1,083Kms with committed funding requirements of approximately Shs 1.8 trillion. The upgrading road projects are at the different levels of implementation and are indicated in table three. Further, a sum of approximately Shs 243 billion shall be required to close projects that were substantially handed over in the Financial Year 2021/2022. Bridge development projects Construction of bridges has continued across the National Road Network and progress is at different levels. The bridges are many and they are in table four. Currently, 14 bridges with a funding requirement of Shs 356 billion are under construction across the country.

7227 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 1 MARCH 2023 iv) Total requirement for critical national roads and small bridges assessed for immediate maintenance intervention is estimated at about Shs 1.2 trillion. Therefore, in light of the budget suppression and inadequate releases, it is our prayer that adequate resources are located to prioritise and clear the following backlog: i) Ongoing national road projects ii) Counterpart funding for externally- financed national road projects and procurement because these attract interest if we do not implement them and already, the contractor is on site. If they are not financed, they will charge for idle equipment. iii) Rehabilitation projects under procurement. Some of these are very critical as you will see in the tables, for example: Mutukula- Kyotera-Masaka, Kikolongo-Bwera- Mpondwe, Nebbi-Goli and Nebbi-Arua. These are very critical roads, which we need to respond to now. iv) National roads and bridges assessed for immediate periodic maintenance and intervention v) There are a number of bridges, which are very critical and we cannot afford to postpone. For example, the Sezibwa Bridge I was talking about on Kayunga Road is over 70 years old and it is really gone. Katungulu Bridge in Kasese needs intervention as well as other bridges on major roads. Madam Speaker, in the document, there is also another set of documents, which give the details about the DUCA Roads (District and Urban Community Access Roads.) In that document, you will find reports about the damage on our national roads, which happened during the rains where regions and districts have submitted for intervention. We visited the sites and costed them. There was a directive that we get money to intervene immediately after the rains but we have never received any money. Therefore, those roads have remained in those bad conditions - that is on the DUCAR network. Also in the document, you will find ongoing projects which we are implementing, including the names of the contractors carrying out those projects. That is so that you can also be able to supervise and check on some of those projects. There are many tables - I do not know if I can comment on some of them or I leave Members to - The Members must have gone through them and they can raise issues on specific ones. Thank you, Madam Speaker. I beg to submit. (Applause)

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to thank the General for the observation he has made. Now that the Speaker has clarified his statement - I will call them observations – I request the General to give us a peek into the road contracts that are awarded on those blue papers so we can know how they are secured. If the Member from Kasese wants their road to come on a contract via the blue paper, what do they do with that signature which the General is accustomed to? What do we do to get those contracts? How do we get to have these roads included? I know the Minister of Finance is also not aware. Remember, Madam Speaker, we classified the challenges with those roads because they constitute borrowing without parliamentary approval. May we know -

I want to thank you very much, Mr Speaker. On 23 December 2022, the President of this country went to Kasese, at the border, to open an international market. He gave a presidential directive to the effect that Shs 10,000 that was being levied as immigration fees from both the Congolese and Ugandan citizens be immediately dropped. Mr Speaker, presidential directives, world over, carry a force of law and effect. We have one President –

Thank you, Mr Speaker, for this opportunity. I rise on a matter of national importance in regard to the various killings of my people by crocodiles and hippopotamuses. On 30 January 2023, a young boy called Yunus Ssenyondo was killed by a crocodile. This happened one and a half years ago, a senior six vacationer was killed by crocodiles. In just two years, 17 people have been killed by crocodiles and hippopotamuses. In two years, 49 people have been injured by these animals on Katunguru, Katwe, Kayanja, Kasenyi and Hamukungu Landing Sites. My prayers are that: 1. Government erects a strong cage to stop these animals from getting out of the water body to the areas where people are. 2. The ministers of Tourism and Fisheries go down to the local community at the landing sites across the district and talk to these people so that they can listen to the plight of the local people. The boy, who died on Monday, died at Katunguru Landing Site. Those are my prayers, Mr Speaker. THE MINISTER OF TOURISM, WILDLIFE AND ANTIQUITIES (Col (Rtd) Tom Butime): Thank you, Mr Speaker. My condolences go to the honourable member and to the community of Kasese and Queen Elizabeth National Park. I agree with the story and the unfortunate information she has given us. However, we have seven well-constructed cages. Two of them, unfortunately, were destroyed by the hippopotamuses; so, five are operational. We shall continue to construct more cages so that the crocodiles have no opportunity of hurting and killing our people. Since 2013, 36 crocodiles have been captured in the areas of Katwe, Kashaka, Hamukungu, Kasenyi and Kayanja on Lake Edward. Twenty nine crocodiles have been translocated to Lake Kibwera in Kyambura Wildlife Reserve. Seven were captured and translocated to Murchison Falls National Park. Awareness campaigns have been going on in that area, which I know very well, and we shall continue -

Honourable minister, I request you, before you leave, to link up with Hon. Acuti Opio and Hon. Amos Okot; they have a very important issue, which they will share with you. Thank you. I appreciate you for the quick action that was taken because, at least, you have arrested our fears and please, keep it up. Next statement? VI) THE PROCEEDINGS OF KASESE MUNICIPAL COUNCIL REGARDING THE PROPOSED BYLAW ON TRANSGENDER AND MINORITIES

Thank you, Mr Speaker. You were applauded a lot by the people of Kasese for your quick reaction and in the interest of time, I carried all the documents - the minutes. Let me read what I did and then, the rest you will allow me to lay on the Table: “Report to Parliament on the attempt by Kasese Municipal Council to pass a bylaw promoting homosexuality –” Mr Speaker, on 25 January 2023, Parliament was informed that Kasese Municipal Council was in the process of passing a bylaw promoting homosexuality. It was also reported that there was an NGO, which had sponsored the formulation and approval of that bylaw.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. This report is on the attempt by Kasese Municipal Council to pass a bylaw promoting homosexuality. On 25 January 2023, Parliament was informed that Kasese Municipal Council was in the process of passing a bylaw promoting homosexuality. It was reported that there was an NGO, which was sponsoring the formulation and approval of the said bylaw. Mr Speaker, I was assigned by you to follow up the matter, establish the clear facts, take action and report back to this Parliament about the same. On 27 and 28 January 2023, the technical team from the Ministry of Local Government legal section and I moved to Kasese and held two

7131 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 1 FEBRUARY 2023 meetings with the senior management team and the leaders of Kasese Municipality about the bylaw on homosexuality that was being processed. The meetings were also attended by the Members of Parliament; Hon. Godfrey Kabbyanga, Minister of State for Information, Communication Technology and National Guidance; Hon. Kitanywa Sowedi, MP Busongora North; Hon. Mujungu Gideon, MP Busongora South; and Hon. Ferigo Kambale, MP Kasese Municipality. The two who missed were in another meeting and missed with apology. Mr Speaker, from the above engagement, we discovered that Kasese Municipal Council was processing a bylaw titled “The Local Government Access to HIV and TB Services for Key Population Bylaws.” By the time of my intervention, the bylaw formulation process was at the stage of second reading in the council, having been approved by the Social Services Committee. The objectives of the bylaw are: 1. To give full effect to the Council of functions, powers, responsibilities and services at all levels of local government. 2. To increase access to HIV/TB prevention and care services among the key populations in Kasese Municipality. 3. To reduce high rate of new infections of HIV/AIDS, TB cases in Kasese Municipality. 4. To regulate health services by health facilities in Kasese Municipality. Mr Speaker, the most contradicting part of the bylaw is the preamble which states that the bylaw provides for enforcement on the human rights freedoms of marginalised population and increasing access to HIV and TB services in Kasese. The interpretation section of the bylaw refers to marginalised population as homosexuals, transgender, sex workers, and drug users. This, therefore, means that the bylaw that was being processed could have had a hidden motive of promoting homosexuality. This is against section 38 of the Local Government Act, Cap 243, that gives legislative powers to local government councils to enact ordinances and bylaws, which are not inconsistent with the Constitution. Mr Speaker, all the formulation processes were supported by an NGO called, Human Rights Promotion Forum, which is operating from Kasese District and headed by a one Bob Kyamanywa. I have already forwarded the name to the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, with his telephone number, for further follow-up. Actions taken I took the following actions: a) I instructed the municipal council leaders to drop the process of the bylaw since it was contradicting the laws of Uganda and the socio-cultural wellbeing of the people of Kasese and Uganda at large, which they agreed to do. b) I instructed Kasese Municipal Council to always seek legal support from the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, specifically the Office of the Attorney-General, whenever they are coming up with bylaws. I further advised them to seek guidance from the Ministry of Health whenever they are coming up with health-related bylaws. c) I requested the Ministry of Internal Affairs to pick interest and internalise the operations of this NGO called the Human Rights Promotion Forum, which was promoting that bylaw. d) I undertook to ensure that the Ministry of Local Government carries out an induction for Kasese Municipal Council leaders by end of February 2023.

7132 MINISTERIAL STATEMENT Mr Speaker, at this momentous epoch, I beg to lay a conglomeration of documents gathered from a fact-finding mission in Kasese as follows: 1. The Local Government (Kasese Municipality) Access to HIV/TB Services for Key Population Bylaws, Bill (Annex A). 2. Minutes of the extraordinary Social Services Committee meeting held on 5 December 2022 in the Mayor’s Council Hall, where the preliminary discussions were held. 3. The recommendations of the Social Services Committee on the Kasese Municipal Council bylaw on Strengthening Access to HIV/TB Services in Health Facilities for the Key Populations, 2022. They were also denying and rejecting the bylaw. 4. The invitation to full council sitting on Friday, 16 December 2022 in the Central Division Hall from 10.00 a.m. and attached are the minutes of the meeting of that day, where they blocked the leader of that NGO from giving opening remarks. 5. Statement from the Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu . They also wish to be counted among the people vehemently rejecting the bylaw, which was in conflict with the laws of the Republic of Uganda and the culture of Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu . Mr Speaker, you instructed the Ministry of Local Government and Ministry of Internal Affairs. We have done ours as the Ministry of Local Government. We have even informed the Attorney-General and passed on all the documents to him, if he so wishes, to take further action. To my colleague from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, I have submitted all those documents, including the number and address of the gentleman heading that NGO. I beg to submit.

6984 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT [The Deputy Speaker] COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR Honourable colleagues, join me in congratulating His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda and the companies in the oil and gas sector, for launching oil drilling in the Hoima Graben. We are all looking forward to this and I want to take this opportunity to thank the Parliament for playing its role. Now, the bigger role we have is oversight on this, to ensure that this oil does not turn into a curse but rather an opportunity for this country. I request the committees responsible to ensure that you do your oversight role effectively. The President launched the activities yesterday in Kikuube District. Let us continue to work together so that we can have our first oil as projected by Government in 2025. Honourable colleagues, as you may all be aware, the NRA Liberation Day will be tomorrow, 26 January. It is the date when the NRA fighters led by His Excellency, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in 1986, won the five-year guerilla bush war that liberated Ugandans from the tyrannical regimes at the time. The theme for this year’s celebrations is, “ Our Resolute Effort to Transform Uganda is a Promise We Shall Fulfill .” The venue for the official celebration will be at Kakeeka Playground, Kakumiro Town Council in Kakumiro District. His Excellency the President, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, will be the chief guest. I implore you, colleagues, to attend. It is a public holiday. Let us all go to Kakumiro to celebrate with fellow Ugandans. Colleagues, there is a record I want to correct and that is why we have the Hansard . When compiling the Hansard and tallying the votes that each one recorded, we found a small error from what I had announced here, as the Clerk had given them to me. We do not have very clear rules, which provide for correction of such in terms of the House, apart from going through the motion. I have invoked rule 228(2) of the Rules of Procedure because under rule 282(1), the Clerk is mandated to ensure that he gets a correct record of the Hansard. Then, under subrule 2, the Clerk does it on the directive of the Speaker. Therefore, basing on that, I want to correct the record to read as follows: On advice of the Clerk, after going through the Hansard and looking at how each Member voted, the official record, after combing through the Hansard, is: The “Yes” votes - 349 The “No” votes - 4 The “Abstain” votes - 3. Therefore, I want that captured very well on the record. Colleagues, most of you are on social media. Today, after what we discussed here for a short time, I received a barrage of messages from very many parents regarding the issue of homosexuality. What I thought I knew, I am really shocked. To my shock, I received the news that Kasese Municipal Council attempted to pass a bylaw that recognises homosexuals and transgender people as minorities. It first came to me on social media. I did the verification, my office called the clerk and called the CAO, and we confirmed it. This was brought with the clearance of the Executive, brought by the Speaker of Kasese District. I want to make this very clear to all local governments in the country that there is no local government that can pass a bylaw that contravenes national laws; that is repugnant . (Applause) I have - and this is a very serious warning - I want the Minister of Local Government to train these people because it is embarrassing. I have gotten information that the council was being facilitated by an NGO called Human Rights Promotion Awareness Forum. They are

6985 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 25 JANUARY 2023 going around the whole country using local governments. I am trying to access some other records that they have sent me, which I have managed to get formally. The motion was sponsored by a group coordinated by a one Bob Kyamanywa. I have the contacts and I am going to pass them on to the Minister of Internal Affairs. Luckily, the Secretary for Production in that council is the one who saved the day and said, “This council cannot pass laws that are in contravention of national rules.” This is something, which had already passed the Executive level, got space and undergone the first reading and second reading. It was moving at a terrible speed in the district. When it first appeared on social media, I took it lightly. I called my people to verify and they were saying, “save us.” Honourable member, the clerk and your people from Kasese said, “Save us, these people have a lot of money.” Honourable colleagues, I want to alert you that attempts are being made from all corners because the money from these groups seems to be a lot. In addition, this is not a simple fight; it is not for the faint-hearted. They are going to target us by all means and they will try to tarnish your name. They will try to threaten you that you will not get visas, but the main visa you have as a Ugandan is being a Ugandan. Therefore, no one should threaten you on such matters. Please, stand firm. (Applause) Minister of Local Government, please, the route they have taken – And how they brought the one of Kasese, they said they want all these people to be able to get medication; HIV/ AIDS drugs in health centres. When I read the motion, it really shocked me. I would like the Minister of Internal Affairs to seriously take up this matter with this NGO and follow the due process as provided for with the NGO Board. The Minister of Local Government should formally give a statement on this matter of Kasese because as a minister, you get documents formally. They need to be laid here and we look into this. That is my communication, honourable members.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. The issue of homosexuality is a serious one. Yesterday, I was talking about an NGO calling itself the Key Populations Consortium Uganda Limited. This NGO, at the time of registration, indicated the activities that they were supposed to do in this country and it is registered by the Uganda Registration Services Bureau. Unfortunately, it is actually involved in the promotion of homosexuality. As the Ministry of Health, we have defined what key populations are in this country and these include the boda bodas, the fisherfolk and the long distance truck drivers. We have no space for anybody who goes against the order of nature. (Applause) Mr Speaker, we will wait for the minister to bring that statement. I received that document from a concerned parent who shared it with me. I thank you for bringing up the issue of the attempt in Kasese to pass this. They are using these NGOs to reach down to the grassroots promoting health, but at the end of it, they are doing something else. I call upon colleagues to please check on what activities these people are doing in your districts. Secondly, Mr Speaker, you talked about the NRM day. I congratulate the NRM Government for attaining its 37 th birthday under the selected theme. When you talk about transforming our country, we should leave no one behind. However, as the Uganda Women Parliamentary Association (UWOPA), we facilitated the Markets Bill, which was passed by this House in October. We have clear rules as to how long these Bills can be with the President. This Bill was intended to help the majority of the people in the market who are women. Unfortunately, the Bill is still with the President and I want to request you that, maybe, you need to write a reminder. The last time this matter

Thank you. Your point is well noted, honourable. I will be giving you a response. I had allowed Kasese.

Thank you very much, Mr Speaker. It did not occur to me that I would stand on this Floor to respond to an issue that I absolutely have no idea about. However, as a Member of the Kasese family, I take your guidance, Mr Speaker. And as a representative of Kasese community, I would like to make it crystal clear that the purported bylaw is not a position of the Kasese community or even the district. I wish the MP for Kasese Municipality was in the House, but he is together with the Committee on Health back home trying to pursue matters that relate to our community. Kasese District is a highly religious district. We are law-abiding citizens and peace-loving Ugandans. We also know that we have one Constitution that we pay allegiance to. I would like to imagine that probably, it was an oversight, but as community leaders, we do not take this lightly. We will get deep down to the community. I have not heard any one of our bishops or even the district Khadi support anything that contravenes the Constitution. I give assurance to my fellow citizens that Kasese, as part of Uganda, upholds a value system and I do not want that to define or describe the people of Kasese. I know that my district chairperson, the Resident District Commissioner, my fellow MPs and the entire Kasese leadership will dive into this. We will give you maximum cooperation to ensure that this does not become the identity of the people of Kasese. So, we completely disassociate ourselves from the events.

Mr Speaker, just for the record, the acting LOP, who was one time referred to as a bishop, has said that Hon. Charles Bakkabulindi will be conflicted. Mr Speaker, protect me from the Kasese people. (Laughter)

Mr Speaker, I would like to applaud the minister and the report on defence. On behalf of the people of Kasese and my brothers and sisters who border Congo, we understand, very much, the value of the UPDF in Congo. Mr Speaker, you have seen on social media that a neighbouring country downed the DRC jet. Such a thing sends chilling ripples in our back. What do we want, as neighbours? We want stability. We want peace. However, the presence of the UPDF in Congo and their proper operations there require infrastructural support. Some of the bridges on these borders are weak. They have been weakened by rivers and floods. Recently, we were reporting about the bridge on River Tako and River Rubiriha. It is the same story on the Bundibugyo side. As we go onto the budgeting process, we request that support is given to such bridges. Finally, the people on this side depend on Congo, as a market. A lot of our products go into Congo. Therefore, when Congo is secure, then, our pockets are secure as we get income. I also urge the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs and Operation Shujja, to beef up the intelligence system in Congo. The incident that happened in a church in Kasindi the other day – a few kilometres from Mpondwe - was very bad. Innocent people were killed or maimed and of course the whole community was terrified. I urge the security forces in Uganda, the defence minister and our President to beef up intelligence in Congo so that we do not see similar incidents again. I thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I applaud the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs and the other security agencies for a job well done. However, while I appreciate the participation of the UPDF in the Democratic Republic of Congo, my concern is about the leakages back at home such as the recent skirmishes we heard of in Bundibugyo and Kasese. Mr Speaker, in Buhweju, where I come from, we border a forest – Kashohakitomi. There is talk that people have seen strange people within the forest. The UPDF has not come out to declare itself. Remember that at one time, the ADF operated in that forest, up to Bihanga in Nyakaziba Town Council. [Mr Oboth] MINISTERIAL STATEMENT

In conclusion, Mr Speaker, I come from Kasese. It is extremely difficult for anybody from the Opposition to get a recommendation from the RDC and the GISO because we know the brand and class of RDCs and GISOs, with due respect. I would rather that the recruitment focus upon the LC system because as much as LC chairpersons are politically inclined, in terms of service, they serve the entire community. So I do not want to see the UPDF, the national army, having people that have just a specific political orientation or inclination. The UPDF is a national army; the people that come from the Opposition and are willing to serve their country as servicemen and servicewomen should be given equal opportunity.

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for this opportunity. I rise on a matter of national importance in regard to the fraudulent payment for land meant to resettle people in Muhokya IDP Camp. Madam Speaker, last November, I presented the same matter and you directed the minister of lands to go to the locus and find out why she recommended the payment of land without assessing. You also directed the office of the Prime Minister to go to Kasese and make the same assessment. Further, you directed the

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise on a matter of national importance regarding the closure of Kilembe Mines Hospital in Kasese Municipality. Madam Speaker, on 2 December 2022, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health directed Joint Medical Stores that the credit line for providing medicines and medical supplies to Kilembe Mines Hospital be withdrawn. When this information came out, the leadership of Kasese were shocked because we could not believe why. Kilembe Mines Hospital is owned by Kilembe Mines Limited, which is a Government entity. Government owns Kilembe Mines Limited with a shareholding of 99.96 per cent. So, it is an entity that belongs to Government. The second reason we were shocked is that this hospital serves a population of around 500,000 people and this hospital serves most of these subcounties on the mountains. Most of the women who give birth from all those mountains are served by this hospital. Two weeks back, the local population decided to demonstrate because it was shocking news. The matter is becoming worse; it is even becoming more of a security matter. Just last week, our area minister, Hon. Kabyanga Godfrey communicated to me that the matter is becoming more of a security –

Ah ah! You do not just switch on a microphone and start saying “Information.” You are raising the same thing; we need the hospital operational. Can we hear from the minister? Honourable minister, did you close the hospital? THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR HEALTH (GENERAL DUTIES) (Ms Anifa Kawooya) Thank you, Madam Speaker. First of all, I wish you a happy New Year and wish you good health and blessings as you steer this august House in the Year 2023. Madam Speaker, I do share the pain of my colleagues and the people from Kasese. The reason for closing that hospital is that the people of Kasese and my colleagues in this august House are aware that there have been many floods in that area. These are facts. I am happy that he has called on the Committee on Health to go to the ground. Following the repeated flooding and destruction of the Kilembe Mines Hospital by water from River Nyamwamba, health service delivery was reallocated to the other health facilities. That was step No. 1. River Nyamwamba - everybody who comes from Kasese knows what the damage is; everything flooded and the entire hospital flooded. What we did, as a ministry in the immediate, was to reallocate all other health services to all other health facilities within the municipality where the community has been accessing healthcare. We have met with some of the Members from this area. To ensure availability of medicine in the operational health facilities, the Ministry of Health approved the reallocation of the essential medicines and health supplies and credit line budget from Government to other private not-for-profit health facilities within Kasese District, and they are handling the patients. That was the immediate concern we started with. Among these entities and facilities was the Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau, which is the biggest with health facilities and all equipment that were within Kilembe Mines Hospital. After the flooding, the ministry entered into a tripartite agreement between the Ministry of Health, Kilembe Mines Hospital and the Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau, which expired in May 2022. The honourable colleague is well aware of all other issues between Kilembe Mines Hospital, the Ministry of Health and the Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau. This has not yet been renewed and there are no financial obligations for the ministry to Kilembe Mines Hospital. We were giving additional financial help like other health facilities, but once the hospital flooded, we had to look for immediate solutions. This issue has been with us and even as I speak, before the Health Committee yesterday, but one, we had to give them the explanation. The Ministry of Health has immediate plans to construct another public health centre IV in Bulembia Division. We are doing our best to have another alternative. There is no Kilembe Mines Hospital now because it flooded. The services are being taken to other facilities around. The letter that the colleague alluded to was about medicines – it was not about removing or abolishing the hospital, but to have the medicines that were going to Kilembe Mines Hospital distributed to the other facilities to ensure that health service delivery continues – (Interjections)- Let me conclude on this.

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for this opportunity. I would like to know from the minister if there is any provision of emergency intervention in case of a disaster occurrence in Kasese. Honourable minister, two months ago, a road from Katoru to Kayanzi was badly affected by floods. Kayanzi is a landing site within a national park and there is no other route to access that landing site. Schools are about to open and there is no school on that landing site. It has always been hard for the people on this landing site to get food and access other services. Honourable minister, I came to your office and reported this issue. You told me you were going to get in touch with the district engineer and up to now, nobody has set foot on that route. I pray you give me an assurance that you are going to handle this issue.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. On behalf of the Rwenzori subregion, on behalf of Kasese, on behalf of the Rwenzururu kingdom and on my own behalf, I want to extend my deepest condolences, first of all to the family, to the Chief Justice, to you, Madam Speaker, to the President and to the entire country, my fellow citizens. Your Lordship Chief justice, on 27 August 2020, I had the honour to interview you for the job of Chief Justice. The Speaker then said, we want to do things differently. Atkins, you are going to interview the Chief Justice. Hon. Moses Balyeku, you are going to interview the Deputy Chief Justice. That was in the Conference Centre. Your Lordship Chief Justice, I interviewed and scored you and it was upon the report that I submitted that the President gave you the job. One of the things that I remember sharing with the Chief Justice was the backlog. Your Lordship Chief Justice, the reason why I am bringing that up is because the Hon. Justice Opio made clearing or downscaling – (Member timed out.) Madam Speaker, just one minute.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. During the time we went to Kisoro to campaign for the same Member of Parliament, I landed on the same airfield. I saw the state in which it is. Today, the Ministry of Works and Transport is doing a review and I saw Kisoro Airfield and others – Kasese and the like - on the programme. I think it is work in progress.

I sympathise with my sister, but also thank you, Madam Speaker, for being a mother to all of us by prioritising the security and safety of your Members. Honourable member, you are in the right hands; we have a Speaker who really cares. About five days ago, Kasese was confronted by heavy floods. ( Interjections) My honourable brother is saying he saw it because the news was all over the television stations. Up to 257 houses and two churches were affected by these floods. The communities are still flooded and you cannot even see the houses because they are submerged in water. Our fellow citizens are now taking shelter in schools and churches. Madam Speaker, the bitter part of it is that we had just got two bridges constructed and in two communities. Those two are at the verge of being swept away, yet, those bridges cost a lot of taxpayers’ money. Madam Speaker, I have, briefly, about six prayers: 1) That UNRA goes to Kasese – Kisororo and Karambi – and saves the two bridges from being swept away because it is going to take Government about 10 years to get money to restore these bridges. Before they are swept away, please, save those that are already in place. 2) I have just said that where your people used to get the food from is all over flooded. In other words, the communities have nowhere to go get food. They are sheltered in churches and schools. Can we get Government going to those two communities in the five subcounties of Karambi, Isango, Kitororo, Kanyasi, Bwera, Ihandiro and part of Nyakiyombu - to avail food relief? 3) There is a huge crack - maybe the geologists should also be deployed there - that is separating the two communities. Behind the cracks, there is a huge rock, as big as this very building, just right on the mountain. Our worry is that if, God forbid, the crack were to give way, the stones would roll over the settlements leading to loss of lives. Madam Speaker, the Kasese District Woman Member of Parliament and I have already appealed to our community members to relocate, but the question they keep giving us is: “Where do we go? Atkins, do we go to your home?” Yet, we have nowhere to put them. Our prayer is: Can Government relocate the citizens to safe places as we work out a way of sorting this? Disaster mapping not only in Kasese, but the entire country is necessary because this is a season for heavy pounding storms, rain and floods; let us get a disaster mapping plan in the entire country. 4) About UNRA - Honourable Minister, can you save the roads? One can hardly connect from one community to another. Please, find the money. If you do not have it, the Speaker is here and we are here. You can ask for a supplementary budget so that we have the roads fixed. Lastly, as I take leave to give the honourable minister a chance, there is the issue of compensation. Kasese people are familiar with our communities - putting up some iron sheet

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to thank my senior colleague for raising this issue concerning Kasese. I also had a one-on-one with him yesterday on this same issue. We know very well that Kasese is one of the most vulnerable districts in the country with disaster issues. Madam Speaker, you gave me a directive last week to respond to Tororo, Ibanda and Kasese. The team has already done its assessment and we are preparing to send food to these three districts as you directed. The issue of the land is very serious. The alarm was raised and the Office of the IGG is handling it. It is also very unfortunate that someone has gone ahead to put landmarks on this land, yet it has a contentious issue yet to be resolved. Nonetheless, it is being handled by the IGG and the staff who handled the administrative issues. Thank you.

Madam Speaker, that is what should be investigated, maybe, by your directive. Otherwise, what I know is that the land in Kayunga and Kasese were paid for. The only land that we have not yet paid for, I think, is the one in Ntoroko District. Even as we have this land, including the one in Kasese, we need funds to resettle these people because you cannot just move people from where they are now and put them on bare land. We also need to plot the land and put up some structures for the IDPs.

Honourable members, we need to handle the land issue. If the land does not belong to the person who has sold it to Government, then, any transaction in regard to that land must stop until clearance is done. I would like to ask the Minister in charge of the Presidency, who is aiding the person defrauding people, to ensure that the RDC stops whatever she is doing. How can you aid somebody that is taking land from other people? Please, minister of lands, go to Kasese and report back to this House on Wednesday.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. Before I respond, there was some exaggeration in the submission of the honourable colleague where he mentioned that Kasese was washed away. This is not true. There are parts of Kasese - By the time the scenario happened, he was there and if it was the entire Kasese, he would not be in this House. However, we have dispatched a team of about seven engineers –

Hon. Fred Byamukama, have you ever been to Kasese?

Do you know the nature of the land in Kasese?

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to sincerely sympathise with the people of Kasese; I have been there many times. There was a time we went there with Egyptians and removed boulders – you know whenever it rains, huge stones are washed down. Those boulders were stopping water from flowing freely. Therefore, we did some work with the Egyptians; we built gabions and thought that what we had done would sort the problem. Unfortunately, it was very not enough. If you have been to Kasese, you must have seen that it is a very interesting terrain. I do not know what you call it: there is a hill every side. (Interjections) No, it is not like Sebei, which is mountainous. This one is a very funny mountainous area. As a ministry, we had come up with the idea of tree planting. In fact, we had started bamboo planting. We intend to continue with tree planting. I am glad that Cabinet has approved the Tree Fund. Therefore, with the approval by the Cabinet, we expect to get money for the Tree Fund. This is the time we should concentrate on Kasese. Thank you, Madam Speaker. [Mr Odur] COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the people of Kasese, I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very warm happy birthday. You are a great gift to this country and you make us all proud. This is in reaction to your communication. I am one individual - and I believe all of us in this House – believe that our pre-occupation in this House is to ensure that –

And that is the No. 3. (Laughter) Madam Speaker, I believe that our major pre- occupation is to ensure that there is value for the taxpayers’ money. In your communication, I am glad you hinted on receipt of the report from the Auditor-General. Together with that, I make reference to the report from the Inspectorate of Government, which indicated in 2021, that about Shs 23 trillion is lost to corruption. Madam Speaker, you also hinted on procurement. In that very report, Shs 1 trillion is lost to procurement fraud. In this very House, we have had reports from the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Planning and the Minister of Works and Transport, with all of them crying that the Government does not have money. The procedural issue, which is a direct reaction to your communication is: how come, in this country, we cannot find money for our fellow citizens to get clean and safe drinking water, but Shs 23 trillion is lost to corruption and Shs 1 trillion is lost to procurement fraud alone? When I go back to Kasese or when I travel countrywide, I find a lot of people applauding you. One of the reasons is your commitment to fighting corruption. We will never blame the leadership of this House for not having given us enough space to fight corruption – (Interjection) - wait a minute. The accountability committees of this Parliament are headed by us - the Opposition. In other words, if there is corruption, we are not going to point to one direction. We are going to point at all of us. The reason I showed up to make this reaction is what are we going to tell our sons and daughters when they ask us, “What did you do?” It is time for you, Madam Speaker, to put your foot down, roll up your sleeves and tell the people to get ready for accountability. This Parliament must speak. In conclusion, we are looking forward to exhaustively looking at those reports and holding accountable those that are bleeding COMMUNICATION FROM THE CHAIR

There is a procedural matter. One thing I need to correct Members on is that we did not say specifically the same amount; districts differ. Kasese, for instance is one of the biggest districts. When you go to Arua and Wakiso, they are different. That is why I said it is not cast in stone. We will assess from district to district.

6348 In northern Uganda, we have Abim, Adjumani, Agago, Alebtong, Amolatar, Amudat, Amuru, Apac, Omoro, Arua, Dokolo, Gulu, Kaabong, Kitgum, Koboko, Kole, Kotido, Lamwo, Lira, Maracha, Moroto, Moyo, Nakapiripirit, Napak, Nebbi, Nwoya, Otuke, Oyam, Pader, Pakwach, Yumbe, Zombo, Obongi, Terego, Karenga, Kwania, Madi-Okollo, Nabilatuk, and Obongi. In Western Uganda, we have Buhweju, Buliisa, Bundibugyo, Bunyangabu, Bushenyi, Hoima, Ibanda, Isingiro, Ntungamo, Kabarole, Kagadi, Kakumiro, Kamwenge, Kanungu, Kasese, Kibale, Kiruhura, Kiryandongo, Kisoro, Kyegegwa, Kyenjojo, Masindi, Mbarara, Mitooma, Ntoroko, Rubanda, Rubirizi, Rukiga, Rukungiri, Sheema, Kikuube, Kazo and Rwampara. Madam Speaker, those are the areas that will be covered by the project.

Hon. Alex Ruhunda of Fort Portal Tourism City, we have already ruled on that and we have moved on to the next item. The learned Attorney-General says he is coming back on Tuesday on the same matter; let us stand over it up to Tuesday. Member from Kasese, I hope it is not on torture. (Laughter)

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I rise on a matter of national importance. On Wednesday, 11 May 2022, a Government nurse from Bwera General Hospital got an appointment into a Government ambulance belonging to the hospital, on reference of a patient to Kiruddu Hospital. In the ambulance, was the attendant, driver, nurse and the patient. When they reached Kibiito Subcounty in Bunyangabu District, the ambulance burst into flames and the nurse got burnt to death. The reason I am raising this is that this citizen died on duty, offering service to his country. I am here because the government nurse, now the late, left behind five biological children. The children are out of school. He left a young widow, with a house under construction. Madam Speaker, duty falls upon us, as the Government, that we offer opportunity to our sons and daughters to serve their country. When a calamity or tragedy of that nature befalls them, it is up to the Government to look after their families. This should not only be restricted to the Kasese person. They should actually bring on board other people, especially the nurses who are dying while trying to save lives during this Ebola tragedy. They should also bring on board the policemen and policewomen that are dying on duty when merciless human beings attack them and kill them. Their families end up suffering. This cannot be allowed to continue. My prayer is that Government finds it urgent and needful to go and rescue the widow of the deceased Government nurse, identify the five biological children and make a commitment to educate them to, at least, first degree level and also ensure that their house is completed. The Government should look into the area of compensating the families of those sons and daughters that are dying while on duty serving their country, especially under the health and security sectors. I beg to submit.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. You have eloquently guided and said it: justice delayed is justice denied. Madam Speaker, this is a country of laws and that is why we have the Constitution. Our Constitution is very clear; nobody is above the law. I am happy, Madam Speaker, you sounded that in your guidance. Our Constitution clearly states that if somebody is arrested: 1. The people effecting the arrest must do so in the language that somebody understands; 2. There should be clear identification; 3. The people arrested should be told or informed of why they are getting arrested, when they are arrested and maybe they should go to a gazetted space or place; you could call it a prison or jail. And even when they get there, they should not go beyond 48 hours - that is two days. Madam Speaker, on 26 November 2016 - it was a Saturday - our people in Kasese were arrested. I will not go through the details because of time. Madam Speaker, they were bundled up and put under incarceration. It is now seven years. The Constitution says 48- And there is a judgement that was put forward by Justice Ralph Ochan and has become part of our laws, that says if somebody is in prison for six months with the no- (Member timed out.)

Just to conclude, Madam Speaker; I just beg - they must be released. Our people from Kasese, including our king - who is also your king, Madam Speaker. I know - (Interjection) - Yes, unless the Speaker says otherwise. Seven years down the road, they are still in prison. Madam Speaker, the report is very clear. This is something that is denting this country internationally. It was extremely absurd that the Attorney-General who is supposed to guide the government went before an international audience and said the chamber in violation of human rights does not exist in Uganda. We are getting a lot of negative feedback. We, the people from Kasese, have so far lost 12 people, dying in prison. Their cases are unheard. They are about –

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. If you really want or if the government was to continue incarcerating them in prison, at least they should offer them the medicine. That is just a basic request. Also to say that this government gives the Kasese people a Christmas gift so that the king and those that are still incarcerated with him can join the Kasese Community and celebrate the Christmas and festive season with the rest of the community. I beg to submit, Madam Speaker, and I appreciate the opportunity.

6167 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA WEDNESDAY, 9 NOVEMBER 2022 destroyed and the population is suffering. Here you are. In fact, if I were not strong enough, I would have had a heart attack a long time ago. (Laughter) Madam Speaker, when I see the suffering of people, I break down easily like I wept in Bududa when I saw people being pulled from the mud - dead bodies. And I told the President that “I will resign if I do not get supported to get these people away from that hazard.” (Applause) It is a real challenge. I would like to appreciate Hon. Nambeshe - we are now friends because we used to fight each other. You have understood our problem because the purpose for something called a ministry is supposed to be effective and efficient. Ours is not effective and efficient because of bureaucracy and we do not have authority over whatever is in the Contingency Fund. So, I support all that colleagues have brought up. I wrote to His Excellency, the President, requesting that we get a separate Vote, at least, if we are not going to stand alone as a ministry. The reason we should plan in advance and we had started planning. For example, during my tenure there of nine years now and nearly seven months - in that ministry, I am going to be 10 years next year in March. We had initiative; we started working closely with the hydro-meteorological systems, which predicts weather conditions, the rainfall, so that in advance, we can plan. We created a department called National Emergency Coordination Centre (NECC), which has been able to give warning, six months at least in advance to know when disaster is going to happen, but all those are on paper. To the Ministry of Finance, that one is not an issue; disaster comes and we are not ready; those are the problems we have. That is why I asked His Excellency, the President to give us a separate Vote. Secondly, I needed to recruit scientists to plan better. Disaster is a physical haemorrhage on our set-ups because of the climatic conditions, which have changed, the rising temperatures and many other things. The Ministry of Water and Environment does very well - it can always derive the data and the hydro-meteorological department, with which we are working on predictions are doing very well. We are sharing the data in predicting when those problems are likely to be. However, we need scientists to plan to use the data from the Ministry of Water and Environment, data on floods. We have to apply it for us to develop resilience to all these disasters happening. And these are challenges we have. So, in this plan, which my colleague read here, we intend to decentralise our operation; we do not want to operate as a Kampala-based unit. For example, for eastern region, we must have a centre in Mbale, whereby we will have food stores, all equipment, everything ready to respond when disaster occurs in eastern Uganda. In Western Uganda, hailstorms have started and then, the floods in Kasese will require us to be present there and not operate from Kampala. In the north, where sometimes, we are hit by drought, we are working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture to give us fast-yielding seeds, but even if they get them for us, what plan on the ground do we have to make sure that those seeds are planted on time to beat drought so that there is food? All these are plans to be done there. Kampala can be a coordinating centre, not an operational centre the way we are now. So, these are the reasons I requested His Excellency, the President, to allow us to work in a planned and scientific manner. However, I think, maybe, some advisors might have given a different view.

6055 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 3 NOVEMBER 2022 doubles as the Commander-in-Chief, directed all servicemen and servicewomen to clear road barriers or what we call “roadblocks.” When going to my community in Kasese District – that is before the Ebola outbreak - I either take the Mubende route or Mbarara Road. Before the Ebola outbreak, I went via Mubende and there was no roadblock or road barrier anywhere, indicating that officers and men had inclined their ears to the word and instructions of the Commander-in-Chief. However, when I went to Rwimi, almost getting into my district Kasese, I found road barriers. And when coming back through Mbarara, it occurred to me that the entire highway was clear until I went to Katunguru, getting into my community district, Kasese; that is where I found road barriers. Madam Speaker, like everybody knows, Kasese is part of Uganda. I do not know why roadblocks should be off the road everywhere else in Uganda and in all of the districts except Kasese. This is not only limited to the roadblocks. You are aware, Madam Speaker, and you have received delegations from Kasese - the fish allowed in other markets - the same fish - is impounded in Kasese. While all the borders in Uganda are open, the Kasese–DRC border is the only border that is closed. When I raised this matter in this Parliament, the Prime Minister was there. She indicated that she was not aware. Madam Speaker, my prayers to the Commander-in-Chief and that is the President -

Your muko - Hon. Atkins, I know you do not only go to Kasese. What about when you go to Tororo? Do you get roadblocks? (Laughter)

Thank you, Madam Speaker. The entire country is off roadblocks, including the eastern region. (Laughter) In Kasese, this is something that is shutting down livelihoods because people cannot go to the markets, vehicles and boda bodas are impounded for carrying fish that is legally allowed to be sold in other markets but impounded in Kasese. My prayer is that the minister, who is here, directs our officers and men that before I get to the community this weekend, I should find no road barrier in Kasese. Two, that the vehicles and boda bodas that are impounded for carrying legally allowed fish are released because these people got loans from the banks and every time you hold up their boda bodas and vehicles, the banks move on them to sell their property. Lastly, the Minister for Trade is right here. Mr Minister, we want the fish market on the DRC- Uganda border opened. Thank you very much.

5964 ADDRESS BY NOMINEES TO EALA Those are some of the challenges that I came to realise when I was doing my Masters in Law that compelled me to come and present myself before you that if I am voted into that office, I believe without doubt that I will add value. You know very well that it is not by design that we have got more Kenyans in this country working in different services; hotels, banking and many other areas. The logic is simple, they have trained and skilled their people based on job demand, which is not in our country. Two years ago, I was traveling to Rwanda, and I found a billboard written on, “Rwandese, wake up and utilise the benefits of East Africa.” You will agree with me, if you can find a billboard of that nature in this country, I dare to resign from this candidature. The reason we have not marketed East Africa and the reason it was not marketed - we keep on sending wrong people for the right job. Let me state this clearly, in the 10 th Parliament I was here campaigning for the same post and I told Members present then, that let us send people who have mandate, who have the capacity, who have the will to fight for a cause or to fight for Uganda, or to take Uganda’s agenda to the East African Community. Among those who went, I do not say they were not competent, but if they were, we would not be asking the questions we are asking ourselves today. Why are Ugandans not aware of the benefits of the East African Community? Like I mentioned, the benefits of the first East African Community, the golden days where you could have a Ugandan go and work in Tabora, where a Kenyan could come and work in Kasese, we have forgotten. Let me remind you about the words of one philosopher. George Santayana said, “Those who fail to learn from history will be condemned by it.” Friends, we have failed to learn from history and that is why we are still behind other integrations. Do you know that the East African Community was ahead of the European Union? I beg your pardon - I am informing you that at one time, the East African Community was ahead of the European Union. If you doubt, ask Google. I am trying to challenge you that if you want to realise the East Africa we want, send the right people to the right offices. As I conclude, this EALA election is the only election in Uganda or in the world, where a candidate cannot vote for him or herself, where a voter cannot ask a question. (Interjections) It is an election where we are only given two minutes -

Thank you, Mr Speaker. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, you were in Kasese two years ago to check on the victims of the floods who are in Muhokya IDP Camp. You made an assurance to them that Government was going to procure land for them. However, till now, they are getting scanty information about the procurement of the land. I would like to know what other assurance you are giving to these people in Muhokya IDP Camp. Thank you.

5957 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA THURSDAY, 22 SEPTEMBER 2022 The Prime Minister’s office, together with the Ministry of Disaster Preparedness, is in the process of parcelling out that land to the beneficiaries. (Interjection)- Yes, land in Kayunga and land in Kasese.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, like my friends from Mbale and Kasese, Bundibugyo was also hit and even up to now, it is being hit by floods. Rt Hon. Prime Minister, you are aware that on the 3 rd of September, Bundibugyo lost three people. However, to our dismay, when Kasese was being considered for the Presidential handshake of Shs 5 million, Bundibugyo was left out. What plans do you have for those people who lost their dear ones? Thank you very much.

5654 STANDING COMMITTEE REPORT I did inform this House that the livelihood of your people in that Kasese community entirely depends on trade. The border continues to be closed and as a result, their sons and daughters cannot go to school. What is happening in my community is that they are rounding up school kids - because they cannot get fees - and then dump and pile them into my office. Therefore, is it procedurally right for the ministers to continue disregarding your directive? Regarding the fish that is being impounded, yet the same is being allowed to be sold in other markets in other communities, you directed, Mr Speaker, that the line minister should come and inform this House. So, the procedural issue is: How long is this going to continue when your people in my community are starving? Thank you.

5677 THE ELEVENTH PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA TUESDAY, 13 SEPTEMBER 2022 not the lives of our fellow citizens. We cannot cover everything else. We live in a country where assassination are occuring. I remember before he ceased to serve as DPC of our community in Kasese, Afande Kirumira Muhammed made it a song, “People are after my life,” and everybody turned a deaf ear. May God and the Almighty Allah rest his soul in eternal peace. Mr Speaker, in conclusion, if it pleases you - and I pray it should - this country called Uganda needs assurance from Government, that the Speaker’s life is safe and secure and the lives of other citizens are all safe because an attack on one of us is an attack on all of us. We have lost many and we are not ready to again lose even one single soul. Thank you very much, Mr Speaker.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. Honourable member, thank you, for raising this matter. Yesterday we had an extensive discussion in the Cabinet. I have actually communicated to the public today about the intentions of Government regarding resettling people who live on those risky slopes in the mountainous areas like the greater Elgon, Rwenzori and even my own Kigezi areas. I would like to appeal to the honourable members to work together with us to sensitise our people to shift from those risky slopes. I was, over the weekend, in Kasese. It was very traumatising to see how people had been buried underground by the huge mudslide. We also agreed in the Cabinet, like he has prayed, that a technical team goes down these areas to assess the conditions of the communities there and guide them, particularly those on slopes, which are above 30 degrees’ gradient, to relocate to lower areas, which are less risky. Maybe the Minister responsible for Disaster Preparedness will be coming to Parliament to give us the comprehensive plan on shifting and relocating people who live in areas, which are at great risk. We would not want to continue losing people because of landslides and this kind of preventable death.

Honourable members, I welcome you to this afternoon sitting. As we continue to receive news - yesterday, we got a statement about Kasese; we are receiving news about the disasters in the country. As legislators, I want us to have a day or two to show that we can improve the environment. Let us show the public that we need to conserve the environment. At an appropriate time, I am going to send you to your constituencies to plant trees - (Applause) - because the issues of climate change have become so terrible that day in, day out, we have people dying - we have floods and we have environmental degradation, which need to be handled. We have existing laws, but we need to act beyond the laws that are available and see what we can do as leaders of this country; how can we impact on whatever is happening? Yesterday, there was a statement from Hon. Lumumba on what is happening. Some of us are even ashamed of mentioning the names of what is happening outside there. (Laughter)

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I have just been reading the disaster alert from the Office of the Prime Minister, signed by the permanent secretary. Reports from the Uganda National Meteorological Authority are forecasting heavy rains from September to December; and a lot of floods, landslides and all the related impacts. Rwenzori and Elgon subregions are already experiencing a lot of disasters, and Madam Prime Minister, you are aware. I am aware you have sent a team to Bundibugyo and Kasese to do a rapid assessment. However, my concern is on the alert; apart from the emergency response that you normally do, I do not see from this alert the preparedness, especially for the mountain areas. We are supposed to do a geohazard mapping or disaster mapping so that we guide people settling in those areas that are likely to experience such, to move away in time before the actual disasters happen. Therefore, I do not know what, as Government, especially the Prime Minister’s office – the one in charge of disaster response in terms of preparedness; how do we prepare our people so that we do not lose lives and property; and so that we minimise the impact of these disasters, because they will happen. That is my concern, Madam Prime Minister.

Madam Speaker, he knows that an assessment was done. As for the food, I promise that we shall give you food. But colleagues, this is my appeal and an appeal from the President. It is true that a lot of destruction has taken place and our ecosystem cannot handle - and that is why it is giving way. We have a plan that we brought here - a policy - and you people approved it in this House. A disaster management plan was brought here by the Minister of State for Disaster Preparedness. I want you and I, like the Speaker has said, to educate our people. Let our people know that when you are dead, you cannot do anything else. In those areas, there are those that we are handling in the enclaves of Bududa, Manafwa and other areas. Yes, we have a plan to do urbanisation, especially in the hilly areas, but we request you to help us to sensitise the people because it is not easy for us, as Government, to convince your people. We bought land in Kasese - he is aware; but we are still struggling to have them go and share that land. We bought it in Muhokya. Yes. So, colleagues, we request you to convince your people. Even those that we relocated to Bunambutye in Manafwa and Bulambuli - his place; they are going back. We compensated them, gave them a home, but instead of taking - they marry another wife to take to the new home and then the older ones are killed. Therefore, colleagues, I think as Government, we are going to be forced to evict them forcefully. Thank you.

Madam Speaker, I would like to commit that the matter brought forward by our senior colleague - that is for the former Members of Parliament - they are not only disturbing you, they also come to my office. I commit that I will inform the Head of State who promised us, so that this matter is put to rest. (Applause) Madam Speaker, allow me to inform fellow Ugandans that we woke up once again to terrible news about the landslides in Kakiika Village, Kagoro Parish, Rukoki Subcounty, Kasese District; where it is reported that so far, over 16 people have been confirmed dead, seven people are seriously injured and are in hospital, while three are reported still missing. Initial reports indicate that over 30 households, consisting of about 150 people, have been displaced. This is a tragedy. I bring condolences from the President of the Republic of Uganda to the families that have lost their dear ones. On learning about the sad occurrence, the President has directed Government to provide Shs 5 million to each family that has lost a loved one, to help in the burial arrangements. Madam Speaker, as soon as I received the information this morning, through our colleague the honourable Member of Parliament for Busongora South - the newest, Hon. Thembo, the Office of the Prime Minister activated our Emergency Response Unit headed by Brig Gen. Kinalwa, who is already on the ground. The District Disaster Management Committee in Kasese is carrying out search and rescue operations together with other partners and other security agencies. Affected households have been advised to move to Kagere Church of Uganda in Kasese Municipality. My office has, this afternoon, dispatched food and non-food relief items to the affected families. On the ground, the Office of the Prime Minister is coordinating partners such as the Uganda Red Cross, the World Health Organisation, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Uganda Police Force, and Save the Children, to avail emergency support. Madam Speaker, in view of all of this, H.E. the President of the Republic of Uganda has called on the nation to protect the environment so that nature can also protect us. What we are witnessing across the country, for example in Kasese, Mbale and elsewhere is as a result of destruction of the environment. We appeal to the general public to heed the information that is provided about weather forecasts by government agencies and also to move to safer places. Honourable colleagues, we will continue monitoring the situation as per the weather forecast and keep issuing updates to the country. Madam Speaker and Members, I thank you. (Applause)

Thank you so much, Prime Minister, for the information and for the support that is being given to the people of Kasese. Our condolences, as Parliament, to the Kasese people and we promise to always be with them at all times; in times of happiness and times of sorrow like this. I want to thank the Government for the contribution and for the message that you have given them. Thank you so much. Honourable members, the information that I have here is that whereas we have been debating and legislating on the issue of pension, most of you have not filled in the forms. We do not even know who your beneficiaries are. So, you should go to the pension office and give in the information of who your beneficiaries are, the number of your children, wives and husbands and we have it sorted. Honourable members, I sincerely want to thank you - [Member rose_] Procedure on what?

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Following the statement from the Rt Hon. Prime Minister regarding the tragedy that has happened in Kasese, it has been our tradition that we observe a moment of silence for those who have passed on. I think the Prime Minister forgot to add that. Therefore, I would appeal to you, Madam Speaker, that is the procedure. Thank you.

We will do that; we are still communicating. Hon. Sarah, I am not going to allow - I know you come from Kasese - (Laughter) - but we are not going to allow that. Honourable members, as we conclude the day, can we stand up and observe a moment of silence for those people who lost their lives? (Members rose and observed a moment of silence.)

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise on a matter of national importance concerning the mushrooming plywood factories and the way they operate, more so in Mubende District and the Greater Mubende. Mubende District, alone, has about seven plywood factories. I have received several complaints from Kyenda Town Council, where we have a one Feiya International Company Limited, which is a plywood factory that employs quite a number of our young boys and girls – which is a credit. However, my concern is about the smoke that they generate day and night and the way they treat the young boys and girls they employ. When a boy or a girl gets an injury in that factory, they dismiss them and let them go. It is for them to find out how they can treat themselves. There is a one Nelson Baluku, who comes from Kasese or Bundibugyo. He was given a job but when he got injured, they chased him out of the factory. Now, he is trying to see how to recover. These factories do not have dining areas. They do not have enough bathrooms and toilets, yet bathing, more so for women, would be more meaningful when

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for the opportunity. Mine is not a procedural matter. Last Saturday, I had the chance to join my community - that is, the Catholic Community in Kasese. My bishop, who is also yours, the Rt Rev. Bishop Kibira Francis Kambale had his message given to me to deliver to you. First of all, to say congratulations - and that he prays for you on a daily basis. Secondly, to welcome you back from the Holy See - the Pope. He also gave me instructions to bring to your attention that, that Saturday in the Catholic community, globally, was a very important day in the sense that it was the commemoration of 100 years of the Legion of Mary. The message from your bishop is that you consider or explore the possibility of celebrating 100 years of the Legion of Mary as this Parliament, if it pleases you. That is a request from your bishop, who is also my bishop. Thank you.

2417 Thursday, 3 February 2022 the whereabouts of the missing people and on what Government is doing to have these people released. We gave you two weeks and the two weeks end on Tuesday. Therefore, on Tuesday, we need a comprehensive report in this House on what action has been taken. We should not work like everything is normal. There are people who are being tortured. There is somebody who was tortured in Kasese. Let us have this resolved so that we may live in harmony. I, therefore, need a comprehensive report on that. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. To the Orthodox community, the Kabaka of Buganda, the family and the clan and to my fellow citizens, I convey my deepest condolences on behalf of the people of Kasese and particularly the people of Bukonzo County West. The life of a great man; the Archbishop teaches us one thing: how do you want to be remembered? It is not what we did that will define our legacy but what we failed or deliberately decided not to do. There are a lot of people for whom as long as their children can go to school, they can get some money, meet the family bills and they are comfortable. This is a man that put the country first. When we lost people in Kasese and we were grieving as a community, his song and voice was very clear. When our brothers and sisters in the North were affected by the war, the voice of the Archbishop was heard. Specifically, I want to – (Member timed out.)