Greetings from CSBAG and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 22nd Sitting of the 1st Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among. In her communication, Speaker Among slammed the Opposition leaders who claimed that each MP was bribed with UGX 100 million to pass the UGX 3.5 trillion supplementary budget, claiming that they are attempting to cover up for receiving money from homosexuals. She warned them against dragging Parliament into selling their country to gays. “If you are covering your dirt on homosexuality, you are getting money on homosexuality and you are covering all that, don’t use this House to cover it. Don’t use Parliament to cover that, eat your money of bum shafters, you can’t say we are bribing you, bribing you for what? We are here working for our people, for us, we are here to do work, we are a people-centred Parliament”. Among said. The Speaker added “What are we bribing you for? I want to request you people before you come up with such an allegation, you must be able to substantiate it. Our work is for the national service and we are paid for what we do. We aren’t bribed in any way and we aren’t going to be diverted, they are trying to cover their homosexuality saying Parliament was bribed, eat your money for homosexuality, sell your country, and keep quiet on your own”, she said. In compliance with Rule 158 (1) of the Rules of Procedure, Speaker Among also urged Whips to expedite the designation of members to the various Standing Committees. Additionally, Among also wished all honorable members and their constituents a happy Christmas and a prosperous 2024, noting that today was the final sitting before the end-of-year recess. The Speaker expressed concern about the practice of private transporters raising the cost of public transportation during the festive season. She noted that travelers have often been harmed by this exploitation. She asked the government’s appropriate regulatory bodies to put an end to this kind of exploitation. The Speaker also urged all motorists to be cautious on the road, urging people to plan their journeys ahead of time to avoid exceeding the speed limit. “Please don’t overspeed, if you want to reach early, please leave early, don’t overspeed because speed kills. I want to urge the public that as much as you are rushing to go to the villages don’t over speed, speed kills, we need you alive. We are going for the festive season and I am aware that so many Ugandans are going to travel upcountry, because so many buses are going to travel, the buses are going to increase fares. They are going to be so fast on the roads, they are going to cause accidents”. Among said. Reacting to the Speaker’s communication, The Vice Chairperson, of Parliament’s Budget Committee, Hon. Wamakuyu Ignatius Mudimi (MP, Elgon County, Bulambuli district, NRM) refuted the claims of MP bribery and asked the Speaker to make sure those responsible are held accountable. He added that MPs are being harassed by their voters back home who are demanding their share and are said to be asking for Christmas money. “I have a supplementary schedule laid out by the Ministry of Finance, and it lacks parliamentary commission.”The person who said, “Come here and tell us because my people are calling and asking when you’re coming, keep something for us for Christmas,” should come here and tell us”. Mudimi said. Hon. Byanyima Nathan (MP, Bukanga County North, Isingiro District, NRM) on his part said “It’s very unfortunate to find that a Member of Parliament doesn’t know the decorum of Parliament. For an MP to go outside this House and talk about things that don’t exist bewilders me. Let’s humble ourselves and talk with evidence”. Hon. Luttamaguzi Semakula Paulson Kasana (MP, Nakaseke County South, Nakaseke District, DP) also demanded that the names of the loud and noisy Opposition MPs involved in the Cooperatives’ compensation funds be made public. In response, the Speaker asked all MPs implicated in the embezzlement of the UGX 164 billion Cooperatives compensation funds to report to the Police before being picked. “If you see your name there, take yourself to Police, the report (on cooperatives) was forwarded to CID, IGG, and DPP, it isn’t just a matter of saying some opposition MPs were there”. Among said. Thereafter, the State Minister MoFPED, Hon. Musasizi Henry Aringanyira who is also the (MP, Rubanda East County, Rubanda District, NRM) laid before Parliament the National Budget Framework Paper (NBFP) 2024/25 that details the state of the economy and proposals for the next financial year. Accompanying the NBFP were Certificates of Gender and Equity Compliance and Climate Change Responsiveness. On the state of the economy, the minister informed the House that Uganda’s economy grew to 184.89 trillion US dollars, up from 162.75 trillion US dollars in FY 2021/22. He also stated that the economy grew by 5.2% in FY 2022/23, compared to 4.6% in FY 2021/22. The Minister also revealed that the economy is expected to grow by 6% by the end of fiscal year 2023/24, 6.5% in fiscal year 2024/25, and at least 7% in the medium term. In addition, the Minister informed Parliament that inflation is expected to remain within the 5% policy target over the medium term. Musasizi also informed Parliament that the theme for the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Budget remains the same as for the Fiscal Year 2022/23 Budget, which is “Full monetization of Uganda’s economy through commercial agriculture, industrialization, expanding and broadening services, digital transformation, and market access.” He also informed MPs that the priority areas for the next fiscal year’s budget 2024/25 are: investing in Ugandans, peace and security, roads, electricity generation, and transmission lines, prioritizing money-earning investments, and effective natural disaster management. “The total funding for the FY 2024/25 is projected to be 52,722, 682, 928, 748 trn”, Musasizi said. Speaker Anitah Among later referred the NBFP to the Committee on Budget and the fifteen (15) Sectoral Committees for scrutiny, with the latter
Today in Parliament | 6th December 2023
Greetings from CSBAG and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 21st Sitting of the 1st Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among. In her communication, Speaker said “The 13th Edition of the East African Community Inter-Parliamentary Games gets underway this week in Kigali, Rwanda. The Parliament of Uganda is ably represented. I urge the Members representing Uganda at the games, to exhibit a proper befitting image of the country. We wish them success in all the sporting disciplines they are taking part in”. She also warned MPs representing Uganda at the East African Games in Rwanda, against shaming their country by sleeping in cheap hotels, saying the US$720 (Shs2,719,602) that they will earn as per diem should be enough to get them decent hotels, instead of camping in cheap hotels of US$20 (Shs75,533). “I want to encourage MPs that as you go there, represent Uganda well in terms of discipline. I am giving you money, US$ 720 per day and you go and sleep in a room of US$20. that is unacceptable for a Member of Parliament, members go and represent us well, represent us well, don’t go and live in a miserable way”. Among said. The Presiding Officer also later informed MPs that the Parliament Catholic Chaplaincy will hold a high mass and lighting of the Christmas tree today at 5:00 pm in the Conference Hall. “The main celebrant was the Bishop of Mityana. You are accordingly notified and invited”. Among said. Reacting to the Speaker’s communication, Hon. Macho Geoffrey (MP, Busia Municipality, Busia, INDP) was concerned about the statement made by the NUP Party President, Hon. Kyagulanyi that the Opposition MPs were influenced by President Museveni to pass The Anti- Homosexuality law. Hon. Basalirwa Asuman (MP, Bugiri Municipality, Bugiri, JEEMA) the mover of the Anti-Homosexuality Act, said that the legislation (AHA) was the most popular law in the history of this Parliament and denied recent statements made by Robert Kyagulanyi, NUP President that the Opposition MPs were influenced by President Museveni to pass this law and asked fellow MPs to stand firm against any intimidation. “It isn’t true that anybody could have used any of us to bring that piece of legislation because in any case, it isn’t new in this Parliament. I am also aware that the forces behind promoting homosexuality are very strong. They have money and influence. And I know that some of our colleagues are under pressure. There is a lot of pressure, there is a lot of intimidation. These forces from Britain, and America have come to my office and I have engaged them, they are looking for allies”. Basalirwa said. He added “As a country, we must stand our ground. God who created us will make us survive, this idea of saying we are cutting aid, we don’t go to America, Britain, yes it is their right. But nobody should determine how we think”. Speaker Anitah Among later fired back at the United States for imposing a visa ban on 348 MPs who supported the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, revealing that her visa request was also rejected, but she doesn’t regret backing the controversial law. “We don’t regret passing this law, and I want to thank the President for really assenting to this law. I am proud and happy with what the President did. We will continue protecting the family, protecting the rights of our children and our country and we will not live on handouts. My visa was cancelled, have I died? As I have said, so long as you don’t cancel the visa to Bukedea and Buyende, I have my home. I will go there freely”. Among said. The Speaker’s remarks were in response to a recent pronouncement by the United States Gov’t that imposed a visa ban and travel restrictions on 348 MPs and their immediate family members, for voting in favour of the Anti-Homosexuality Act. “The blacklist that they are talking about, don’t care don’t worry about that, you have all that you need in this country. So long as your kids aren’t being sodomised, this business of saying you are going to use people’s children must stop”. Among further said. On the same note, the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Chris Baryomunsi said “As a government and Ugandans, we must remain firm. We may be poor but not desperate that we will dangle our resources and lose our values. Nobody should be threatened by these actions of international actors. If they cherish homosexuality, let them cherish it. As Ugandans, we don’t”. The State Minister for Trade, Industry & Cooperatives, Hon. Bahati David who is also the (MP, Ndorwa County East, Kabale, NRM) on his part said “The NUP President made reckless statements on international television condemning his own members saying they were influenced by President Museveni. We should remain firm in the law we passed against homosexuality. We believe that several black males are being traded around. On top of the numerous restrictions, the threats have continued but the house should remain united”. Hon. Ebwalu Jonathan (MP, Soroti West Division, Soroti City, INDP) advised Ugandans opposed to the Anti-Homosexuality Act to relocate to nations like the US and the UK where such values are embraced, saying he is ready to shed blood to fight against homosexuality in Uganda. “Our people told us to go and pass the Anti-Homosexuality Bill and we did. Those who don’t want that law let them leave our country and go and live in the United Kingdom or the United States. But this law, we are going to protect it with our blood, sweat, and our souls. If they want to cut their aid, let them cut, but we are going to defend this law”. said Ebwalu. Parliament later expressed displeasure with the government for the failure of the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal, Industry and Fisheries to present a Statement on the Commemoration of the World Fisheries Day being celebrated in Buliisa District today, Wednesday, 06 December 2023. Later, Parliament
Today in Parliament | 5th November 2023
Greetings from AFLI and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 20th Sitting of the 1st Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among. In her communication, the Speaker appealed to committees to conclude all pending business before them before the Christmas recess. “As we approach the close of the calendar year, and as we prepare to go for Christmas recess, I want to request committees to ensure that you finish all the work before you so that we go for recess when you have nothing pending. She also added “As you are aware in January 2024, we will be handling the budget framework paper, hence we need to offset the pending business. We need all the business offset, as we go into the budget framework paper”. Among was also concerned that some MPs continue to breach the provisions of the code of conduct amongst which is engaging in financial decisions that embed objectivity in the discharge of their duty. ” I was actually surprised when some MD called me and said, there is a member of Parliament who has come that you have sent him for something for you”. Reacting to the Speaker’s Communication, Hon. Bigirwa Noah Nyendohwa (DWR, Buliisa, NRM) was concerned that parliament had not received any statement from the government on the forthcoming World Fisheries Day. In response the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Nakama Rukia who is the (DWR, Mayuge, NRM) said that she was going to consult with the concerned Minister during the sitting. The House then moved on to consider the Sugar (Amendment) Bill, 2023 under the First reading. Speaker Anitah Among told MPs that the government seeks to amend the Sugar Act 2020 to establish the Uganda Sugar Industry Stakeholder Council. “However, I also note that four years after the enactment of the Sugar Act, the Sugar Board which was a creature of section 13 of the Act has never been established. However, the matter will be interrogated in the Committee”. Among said. The State Minister for Trade Hon. Bahati David who is also the (MP, Ndorwa County West, Kabale, NRM) later tabled the Sugar (Amendment) Bill, 2023 before the House for First Reading. The Bill was referred to the Committee for Tourism, Trade and Industry for consideration and report back. It should be noted that while interfacing with the Committee of Tourism on 30 November 2023, the Deputy Attorney General, Hon. Jackson Kafuuzi confirmed that all the licenses issued after the enactment of the Sugar Act are void and said that the Amendment would correct such decisions that he described as “erroneous”. Later, Hon. Mathias Mpuuga, the LOP also presented a statement (attached) on unabated human rights abuses & the shrinking civic space. Mpuuga told Parliament that the government has been deliberately declining to prosecute errant security officers who commit atrocities but instead elevates them in rank. He also revealed that security forces conceal their vehicle number plates with cow dung to evade detection. According to Mpuuga, the norm of lengthy detention has become synonymous with the NRM government especially whenever an opposition political activist or 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 NUP Kasese coordinator Samuel Masereka and exiled Ugandan novelist Kakwenza Rukirabashaija. When their wounds sustained from torture recover, they are arraigned in court”. Mpuuga said. He added “According to the Uganda Prisons Service, out of the 76,367 inmates, 39,453 are convicts while 36,422 are on remand, courtesy of detention without trial. The law stipulates that prisoners should spend at most 180 days on remand (an equivalent of six months), but unfortunately the majority of inmates including the NUP supporters illegally under court martial have spent more than that time. The LOP also told MPs that the UPDF has, out of impunity, continued to terrorize and blatantly torture fishermen in various water bodies of Uganda. The opposition also demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners rotting in numerous jails and illegal detention facilities without trial; the Establishment of a Judicial Commission of inquiry; that parliament appoint a select Committee and that all persons, not subjected to military law and are currently being tried before any military court, be transferred to civil courts under the direction of the DPP. Reacting to the Statement, Hon. David Muhoozi, the State minister of the Ministry of Internal Affairs acknowledged the statement by the LOP but insisted that the government of Uganda continues to account to the citizenry. The Minister for ICT & National Guidance, Hon. Chris Baryomunsi later told Parliament that the government does not have political prisoners. He said Ugandans are arrested based on suspicion of having committed a crime. The Presiding Officer later advised the government to consider releasing persons who have been in custody beyond the constitutionally allowed time. The Speaker afterward adjourned the House to Wednesday, 06 December 2023 at 2.00 p.m.
Today In Parliament | 30th November 2023
Greetings from AFLI and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 19th Sitting of the 1st Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among. In her communication, Among urged the government to consider tax incentives to reduce the cost of cooking gas and support energy-efficient cooking systems so as to mitigate the loss of trees to charcoal burning. She also said “Our continued over-reliance on wood fuel for cooking is an environmental disaster which we must confront. I reiterate my call to you Hon. Members to champion environmental conservation through interventions such as tree planting to mitigate the adversity of climate change”. Reacting to the Speaker’s communication, Hon. Macho Geoffrey (MP, Busia Municipality, Busia, INDP), noted that the price of 10kg of STABEX gas in Kenya is Shs. 30,000 yet the same is sold Shs. 80,000 in Uganda. He wondered how Ugandans who cannot afford such a price are expected to adhere to the ban on charcoal burning or deforestation. He also tasked the government to come up with incentives, such as the provision of gas to the poor communities as a way of conserving the environment. Kagoma County MP, Hon. Walyomu Moses said the cost charged for connecting households to the power lines is high for ordinary Ugandans. ” How can you charge connection fees at Shs. 700,000 when some people cannot earn that amount in a year ?”. he asked. Hon. Achieng Sarah Opendi (DWR, Tororo, NRM) said “I want to appeal to the Executive that biogas is an alternative source of energy that we can effectively use. It will also help us end open defecation“, she said. The State Minister of Education & Sports, Hon. Ogwang Peter who is also the (MP, Ngariam County, Katakwi, NRM), later presented a Statement on the status of the Uganda Netball Federation and participation of the national netball team in international engagements. The Statement follows the withdrawal of the Certificate of Recognition of Uganda Netball Federation by NCS and the allegation that the national netball team, the She Cranes, failed to participate in the African Netball Championships 2023. The Minister began by congratulating the Cricket Cranes for qualifying for its maiden World Cup which is going to be held in West Indies. He added that from Africa, there are only two teams, Uganda and Namibia. Minister Ogwang revealed that the persistent governance and leadership issues coupled with the arrest of Hon. Sarah Babirye Kityo on the allegation of fraud and obtaining money by false pretense from members of the public got the attention of the World Netball body. Moving forward, World Netball established a four-member normalisation committee to resolve the impasse. He also reported that the Uganda National Federation has had governance and leadership challenges since 2021 which matters were brought to the attention of the National Council of Sports through the office of the then, Minister Hamson Obua. Hon. Kabahenda Flavia Rwabuhoro (DWR, Kyegegwa, NRM) who is also the Chair Committee on Gender, Labour and Social Development, later presented a report on the Petition on Mid-Term Access of NSSF Benefits. The committee observed that NSSF savers who had reached 45 years and had saved with NSSF for the last 10 years or more be allowed to access their 20 percent savings as it was stated before the amendment of 120 months contribution. The Committee also observed that the process of accessing savers’ benefits is shortened. The Committee further observed that whistleblowers are facilitated and their documentation is handled expeditiously when they make their complaints to NSSF management. In addition, the Committee observed that Parliament scrutinizes the nature of investments made by NSSF. As a result, the Committee made the following recommendations: Mglsd should fast-track the post-legislative study of the NSSF (Amendment Act), 2022 given that the 31,145 savers who have benefited from mid-term access is still a low number compared to projections; NSSF should formulate a proper complaint mechanism to enable aggrieved members to seek advice, review, justice and assistance in accessing any benefit accruing to them under the law; Mglsd, MoFPED, and NSSF should fast track and implement the resolutions of Parliament in the report of the Select Committee on NSSF and provide an action taken report to Parliament. Reacting to the report, Hon. Ayume Charles (MP, Koboko Municipality, Koboko, NRM), said “I’m a bit worried that our life expectancy keeps increasing and I think we are at 64 years. In the next 15 years, we should be at 75 or 80 years. If we keep on taking the midterm access below the recommended age, we shall be defeating the spirit for which social security is supposed to be. We need to approach midterm access with a lot of caution. I’m of the opinion that the government explores other avenues of bailing out citizens in the midst of the financial stress”. On the same note, State Minister for FPED, Hon. Musasizi Henry Ariganyira who is also the (MP, Rubanda East County, Rubanda, NRM), said “The NSSF funds are invested in three asset classes, fixed income, equities and real estate. To date, our investment portfolio is UGX 18.5 trillion which is invested in these three asset classes”. The Minister of GLSD, Hon. Betty Amongi agreed with the recommendations of the Committee on Gender, Labour and Social Development on NSSF. The House later adopted the Report. The Speaker afterward adjourned the House to Tuesday, 05 December 2023 at 2.00 p.m.
Today in Parliament | 29th November 2023
Greetings from AFLI and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 18th Sitting of the 1st Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among. In her communication, Among said, “As we get into the festival season, soon we will be going for recess and I will request you as the leaders to ensure that you talk to your electorates on how they should live responsibly to avoid issues of getting bad characters, especially the students who are on holiday”. Reacting to the Speaker’s communication, Hon. Macho Geoffrey (MP, Busia Municipality, INDP) said ” Festival days are testing days in the lives of people because they are days of enjoyment and celebrations but they are days that need a lot of security and family care and support. Therefore I pray that the government should come and give us the strategic security plan majorly to the border areas whenever it comes to December, there is a lot of insecurity on borders and Busia in particular. As parents, we should guide our families so that as we enter the festival days we come out of them well with celebrations”. Hon. Ssemujju Nganda (MP, Kira Municipality, Wakiso, FDC) asked Speaker Anita Among to vary the Order Paper to bring forward the item on missing persons. In response, Speaker Anita Among accepted the request. State Minister for General Duties, Musasizi Henry later laid a proposal in Parliament to pre-finance the reconstruction of Masaka-Mutukula Road (89.5 km) and rehabilitation of Nyendo-Villa Maria (11km) and upgrading of the 3.5km access road to UPDF Barracks in Masaka District and 3.5km access road to Masaka Industrial Park at a total cost of Shs 691,680,000,000. The loan request was referred to the Committee on National Economy for Consideration. The House then moved on to consider the Report of the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs on The Judicature (Amendment Bill), 2023. This was presented by the Committee Chair, Hon. Rwakoojo Robina Gureme who is also the (MP, Gomba West County, Gomba, NRM). According to the Chair, the Committee has examined the Bill and presentations made on the matter and is of the considered opinion that the proposal to increase the number of Justices of the Supreme Court from the current 11 to 21 be rejected. The Chair noted that increasing the number of Justices at the Supreme Court will not solve case backlog since case backlog is not caused by a lack of Justices of the Supreme Court. The Chair further noted that the issue of case backlog can be solved by creating efficiency in case management & reviewing the jurisdiction. The Chair also told MPs that increasing the number of Justices of the Supreme Court will increase government expenditure. The House later passed into law the Judicature Amendment Bill 2023, retaining the number of justices of the Supreme Court to 11 & rejected the 21 proposed by Gov’t. MPs however agreed to increase the number of justices at the Court of Appeal to 35, instead of the 55 that had been proposed. Thereafter, the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, David Muhoozi tabled a government report on the missing persons. According to the Minister, the Statement by the LOP that Uganda is among the worst human rights abusers is sweeping, unsubstantiated, and false. He added that it remains the government’s policy and conviction, to respect and protect human rights. The Minister noted that Contrary to what Hon. Mathias Mpuuga claims, an investigation was done immediately after the November 2020 riots, and a report to that effect was presented to the last Parliament by the then Minister of Internal Affairs. The Minister also called on individuals with evidence showing the individuals behind the killings of civilians during the November 2020 protests to furnish investigation bodies with this kind of evidence. “Government keeps open the window for any fresh and incontrovertible evidence, pointing to individuals that are culpable regarding alleged wanton and unjustifiable use of excessive force in order to ensure that the ends of justice and accountability are served”, Muhoozi said. Minister David Muhoozi also told parliament that investigations have been conducted into all 30 cases as reported to the Uganda Human Rights Commission by the NUP and their findings make the complaints of the Opposition questionable. He added that the said supporters have either not been cooperative by providing more evidence to corroborate their allegations or have changed the narrative of their allegations to one that is very different from the one they reported to the Commission. The LOP Hon. Mathias Mpuuga promised to respond to the Minister’s statement with particularised prayers on Tuesday, 05 December 2023. The Speaker afterward adjourned the House to Thursday, 30th November 2023. at 2:00 PM.
Training Communal Land Associations (CLAs)
Training Communal Land Associations (CLAs) in Loyoro Sub County on Leadership Skills, Internal Democracy, and Group Dynamics AFLI, in collaboration with USAID/EWMI Uganda Civil Society Strengthening Activity (CSSA), is implementing a one-year initiative titled “Improving Pastoral Communities’ Engagement in Decision-Making Processes in Mineral Resource Governance (PACED)” in Moroto and Kaabong districts of the Karamoja Region, Uganda. The project aims to enhance the participation of indigenous pastoral communities in decision-making related to mineral resource governance and the equitable sharing of benefits within the mineral extractive industry in Kaabong and Moroto districts. Today, 9th December 2023 in Loyoro Sub County, AFLI conducted training of Seven CLAs, about 63 CLAs executive members in Loyoro Subcounty, Kaabong District. The primary objective of the training workshop was to enhance the governance capacity of CLAs to effectively fulfill their mandates. Previous AFLI efforts had revealed internal cohesion issues among CLAs, marked by weak feedback and accountability mechanisms. The democratic nature of CLAs, representing the interests and aspirations of clan members, had been compromised, evident in the lack of annual general meetings since their formation. This lack of inclusivity implied that decisions made might not have reflected the best interests of the entire community. Additionally, some crucial documents (minutes, resolutions, registration certificates, and constitutions) were untraceable for certain CLAs, impacting their governance effectiveness. Furthermore, while CLAs’ executives possessed diverse leadership skills, further development was essential for them to serve their constituencies effectively. The training was designed to achieve the following objectives: i. Foster a common understanding of internal governance and leadership gaps within CLAs and devise actionable strategies to address them. ii. Enhance the leadership skills of CLA executive members. iii. Provide CLA executive members with an opportunity to share, understand, and practice core group dynamic skills that promote interaction, teamwork, learning, and understanding. Given the varying literacy levels of CLA members, all sessions employed participatory approaches such as group work, plenary discussions, and experience sharing. The training adhered to adult principles of learning, accommodating participants’ frames of reference and encouraging reflective learning and discussion on internal governance, leadership, and group dynamics issues. Importantly, trainers facilitated the active sharing of knowledge and experiences, including promising practice models of CLAs’ internal governance. This approach enabled participants to engage in decision-making based on principles of equality, transparency, and accountability.
Today in Parliament |15TH NOVEMBER 2023
Greetings from CSBAG and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 13th Sitting of the 1st Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among. In her communication, the Speaker said “Following my directive yesterday, the report of the Committee on Tourism, Trade and Industry on the inquiry into the governance of; and value for money for budgetary appropriations to cooperatives for financial years 2011/12 to 2022/23 was uploaded. I urge you Members to read and internalize it”. She added “In the meantime, I urge the relevant Public investigative agencies; namely the IGG, CID, and DPP to whom the report was referred yesterday, to report back on the progress of their investigations within three (3) months”. Among also said “You may be aware that the school term is soon drawing to a close and learners will embark on their longest annual holiday, the third term holidays. It is in times like these that parenting is put to the test. I urge all parents, guardians, and other stakeholders to ensure that there is effective parenting. In all our interactions with those learners, let us protect them from the prevailing evils that society notably; sexual exploitation, violence, human trafficking, and child abuse among others”. The Presiding Officer also commended Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) for patching up roads in the city but advised that this be pushed across all city roads. “KCCA is doing a good job but they are only patching up where they expect visitors to pass. I request KCCA to equally work on all roads in the city because it will benefit all of us”. Among said. The Speaker also raised concerns about business owners who she said are erecting buildings in un-designated areas like trenches and wetlands. The Speaker also noted with concern that “I have also noted that some government agencies continue to grapple with unreliable electricity and water supply. The Police, military, and prisons continue to incur huge expenditure on these utilities yet oftentimes, the inhabitants of the barracks suffer unreliable water and electricity supply. Considering that some of the utility companies are government entities, it is prudent to devise a Government to Government (G to G) billing and payment modalities so as to ensure better living conditions for the affected government employees and their families”. Among also highlighted that “Hon. Members, my attention has been drawn to a Press Conference by some Members of Parliament regarding the hosting of AFCON 2027. I urge Members not to speculate about decisions regarding the venues of the Tournament. There are specific requirements by the Confederation of African Football to qualify to host venues. The matters being raised by the Members can be addressed at an appropriate platform and not necessarily through a Press Conference”. Reacting to the Speaker’s communication, The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Chris Baryomunsi who is also the (MP, Kinkizi East MP, Kanungu, NRM) asked MPs to separate AFCON from the government commitment to constructing stadia across the Country. The Government Chief Whip, Hon. Obua Denis Hamson who is also the (MP, Ajuri County, Alebtong, NRM), reacting on the issue of business owners who have buildings in un-designated areas like trenches and wetlands, said Cabinet took a decision to cancel all land titles issued within wetlands. All the involved persons will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. It is incumbent upon respective organs of government through the line ministries, to swing into action,” Obua said. On the same note, The Minister for Water and Environment, Hon. Betty Anywar, cited challenges of forged certificates issued in wetlands, as well as persons carrying out illegal degradation activities. “National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) is in the process of cancelling these forged certificates and titles. I pray that we take responsibility as a country to report people degrading our land,” Anywar added. Hon. Musana Eric (MP, Buyaga East County, Kagadi, INDP) asked govt to take interest in the state of bridges around the country during the rainy season. “We urge MoWT and UNRA to intervene and work on these bridges”. Musana said. Hon. Biraaro Ephraim Ganshanga (MP, Buhweju West County, Buhweju, NRM), reported that improvements on road infrastructure are often prioritized with districts on highways, leaving out those not situated along highways. “Districts that are in corners like Bujweju have virtually no road, be it a district or community road. I appeal that such districts should get special affirmative action,” said Biraaro. Hon. Ochai Maximus (MP, West Budama North County, Tororo, NRM), called on the Ministry of Works to repair the Tororo-Nagongera. In response, the Government Chief Whip noted that of the Shs1 billion appropriated to each district, city, and municipality in Uganda for road maintenance, Shs500 million has already been disbursed. Hon. Omara Paul (MP, Otuke County, Otuke District, INDP), acknowledged receipt of the Shs500 million in Otuke district, saying “…interventions are already being done to ensure our people have the roads they deserve”. The Presiding Officer urged MPs to get involved in monitoring the effective utilization of the disbursed funds. The Minister of State for Mglsd Hon. Hellen Asamo who is also the PWD Representative later presented a statement on the commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) due on 03 December 2023. The theme of the day is, ‘The Role of Innovations in Disability Inclusion’. Asamo told MPs that the Ministry of Education and Sports needs to explore innovations such as online sign language tutorials for secondary schools, and signed audio-visio copies of the curriculum, to mitigate the current teaching gaps in sign language. She added “Though UCC requires all TV stations to have sign language interpreters, this has not been fully achieved. But sub-titling of voice in most programs like it is done in international media is a reform that can help bridge the gap”. The Minister further said “The adoption of sub-titling of all voice speeches on television is another simple innovation, but with transformative results in the lives of persons with hearing impairment”. The Minister also said “persons with short stature require gov’t interventions to
Today in Parliament |14th November 2023
Greetings from AFLI and the Parliament of Uganda! This is an update from the Parliament of Uganda marking the 12th Sitting of the 1st Meeting of the 3rd Session of the 11th Parliament. This Sitting was chaired by the Speaker Rt. Hon. Anitah Among. In her communication, the Speaker thanked Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa for steering the House during her absence. Among also told MPs that next week on Tuesday, the government will present a statement on outstanding demands of the opposition, but urged that they should all the same attend plenary, where all contradictions can be substantively resolved. Speaker Among threatened to expel Opposition MPs who continue to boycott plenary sittings because of the unresolved concerns on human rights violations, if they miss 15 sittings in a row without seeking permission from her office for their absentia. Among further castigated the Opposition for their sustained boycott wondering why they chose to take their issues to the streets instead of dialoguing within Parliament, saying their actions go against the spirit of cohesion and unity that is being cultivated in the 11th Parliament. “You don’t fight when you are out, you fight when you are inside here. Just like in a home, when you are in a home and you are fighting with a woman, don’t run away be there, stay there so that we see who is who. So it isn’t good for us to go out and start lamenting from out, let us be here, solve our people’s problems getting out of this House isn’t a solution”. said Among. Speaker Among later responded to people who have been criticizing her for not utilizing her maternity leave days, saying she is in good health which is why she returned to serve her country. “Holding a position like mine doesn’t stop you from being a mother, I hope I inspire most of you. And being a politician, I am not a civil servant for anybody to ask why has she come back from leave, I am not on maternity leave, the law prescribes for a civil servant. A politician isn’t a civil servant, so if I am in good health, I come and serve my country”. Among said. According to Article (83) of the Constitution, a Member of Parliament may lose his or her seat in any of the following instances; On resignation in writing to the Speaker; If he or she subsequently ceases to qualify to be a Member of Parliament; If he or she is absent from 15 sittings without permission of the Speaker; If he or she is found guilty of violation of the Leadership Code of Conduct; If he or she joins another party or leaves the party and decides to remain an Independent member; If a member was elected as an independent and joins a party; or On appointment as a public officer. Reacting to the Speaker’s Communication, Prime Minister Hon. Nabbanja Robinah led MPs in welcoming Speaker Anitah Among back to the House, following her absence. Hon. Achieng Sarah Opendi (DWR, Tororo, NRM) called for increased allocations to the Health Sector in the next Financial Year. In response, Prime Minister Hon. Nabbanja Robinah said “It is the government’s responsibility to ensure that our people get deserving treatment in hospitals”. Hon. Atim Cecilia Ogwal (Dokolo, DWR, INDP) said she comes to the House despite the ongoing opposition’s absence, to relay an important message, because “I do not have any other platform”. On the ACP-EU agreement, Hon. Ogwal said it is hard to trade with the European Union if you have a contrary stand on LGBTQ. She added that a new ACP-EU protocol, which must be signed by the 15th of this month, threatens to be injurious to the interests of Uganda. In response, Deputy Attorney General Hon Jackson Kafuuzi said gov’t will only enter into agreements cleared by the Cabinet. As a way forward, Speaker Anitah Among proposed that the Deputy Attorney General engage Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, who heads Uganda’s delegation to the ACP-EU, for guidance on the appropriate course of action in light of the new protocol. Hon. Muhammad Nsereko (MP, Kampala Central, Kampala District, INDP) said the disconnection of SIM cards has disrupted many Ugandans, especially those in the diaspora, who use those service providers to remit funds back home. He said even those who had money on their lines are failing to find it after verification. “Why are there disruptions every year regarding SIM card registration? How many times shall we be moving hence and forth (on SIM card registration?)”, Nsereko asked. In response, Finance State Minister Henry Musasizi said all customers who fear they could have lost money during the recent SIM card re-registration, can claim and get it back. He said the National Payment Systems Act 2020 covers them. Later, Hon. Achieng Sarah Opendi (DWR, Tororo, NRM) tabled before Parliament The Alcoholic Drinks Control Bill, 2023, which seeks to regulate drinking. This Bill was afterward referred to the Committees on Trade and Health. Hon. Achieng also opposed the Constitution Amendment Bill, 2023 whose object is to provide for the rationalization of government agencies as proposed by the government, saying there are many times she has had her proposed amendments to the Constitution deferred. MPs Hon. Nathan Byanyima and Hon Yusuf Mutembuli also opposed the proposed Constitution Amendment Bill. As a way forward, the Presiding Officer guided that it would be better for the government to introduce an omnibus Bill to comprehensively amend the Constitution. She added that this would be better for the House. In addition, Among noted that there is also a Bill that has sections which, if enacted, will amend almost all laws creating the affected government entities. As a result, Among said it is better to introduce the Bills on an agency basis, to allow seamless harmonization with Parliament. The House then moved on to consider the Petroleum Supply Amendment Bill 2023 under the second reading. This was moved by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ssentamu Ruth Nankabirwa. According to the Minister, the Bill will enable the government to ensure a steady supply of petroleum products, and also diversify supply routes. Hon. Otaala Emmanuel Otiam (MP, West Budama County South, Tororo district, NRM) who is also the Chair
Training Communal Land Associations (CLA’s).
Training Communal Land Associations (CLA’s) of Rupa & Lotisan Sub Counties on Leadership Skills, Internal Democracy, and Group Dynamics. AFLI, in partnership with USAID/EWMI Uganda Civil Society Strengthening Activity (CSSA), is implementing a one-year project titled “Improving Pastoral Communities’ Engagement in Decision-making Processes in Mineral Resource Governance (PACED)” in the districts of Moroto and Kaabong, Karamoja Region, Uganda. This project aims to strengthen the participation of indigenous pastoral communities in decision-making regarding mineral resource governance and equitable benefits sharing in the mineral extractive industry in Kaabong and Moroto districts. From Monday 6th to Tuesday 7th November 2023, AFLI organized a Workshop to train CLA Executive members from Rupa and Lotisan sub-counties in Moroto. The ultimate goal of the training workshop was to strengthen the governance capacity of CLAs so that they could effectively deliver their mandates. In previous quarters, the CLA formation process and follow-up meetings undertaken by AFLI revealed many internal cohesion issues among CLAs characterized by weak feedback and accountability mechanisms. Additionally, democratic decision-making within CLAs, including engagement of their broader entities (constituent members), was generally weak, as evidenced by the absence of annual general meetings since their formation. This implied that all members of the community did not necessarily have a voice in the decision-making process, and thus decisions made may not have been in the best interest of all community members they represent as a whole. Consequently, some key documents (minutes, resolutions, registration certificates, and constitutions) remained untraceable for some CLAs, affecting effectiveness in CLAs’ governance and institutional operations. Furthermore, while CLAs executives had varied leadership skill sets, they needed further development (reorientation, refocusing, and igniting) to effectively serve their constituencies. In this regard, the training was organized to pursue the following specific objectives: • Create a common understanding of the CLAs’ internal governance and leadership gaps and agree on workable strategies to address them. • Build the leadership skills of CLA executive members. • Provide an opportunity for CLA executive members to share, understand and practice core group dynamic skills that promote interaction, teamwork, learning, and understanding. The two-day customized training was conducted physically for three CLAs from Moroto district, with a total of 27 members. The trainings, held at the district level, were facilitated by experienced thematic resource persons identified locally in the target districts. There was one trainer for each day session. The training sessions used participatory approaches (group work, plenary discussions, and experience sharing) and adult principles of learning to accommodate the participant’s frame of reference and promote shared feedback. This aimed to encourage reflective learning and discussion on internal governance, leadership, and group dynamics issues. Importantly, the trainers promoted the active sharing of knowledge and experiences (promising practice models) of CLAs’ internal governance, allowing member participation in decision-making based on principles of equality, transparency, and accountability. This enabled the participants to learn and appreciate the need for effective internal governance processes and group dynamics. The trainers also provided coaching support where necessary to CLAs during and after the training workshop sessions.
COMMITTEE CALLS FOR FULL OPERATIONALISATION OF HEALTH CENTRES
The Committee on Government Assurances and Implementation has called for the full operationalisation of health centres in local governments. The committee led by the Chairperson, Hon. Betty Nambooze noted that whereas government has largely fulfilled its commitment to have a health centre III in every sub-county, many of the new health facilities are not fully functional despite having new structures and equipment. This was revealed during the committee’s two-day field visit in the Eastern region, which commenced on Thursday, 26 October 2023 with the aim of assessing the level of implementation of health sector-based government assurances in local governments and regional referral hospitals. In their first stopover, the Members of Parliament interacted with Jinja district leadership, before touring Mpambwa Health Centre III which was recently rehabilitated and equipped by Ministry of Health at Shs1.6 billion. “I am pleased that every sub-county in Jinja has a health centre III but they are not well equipped …This money for upgrading health centres was borrowed in 2019 but we are now in 2023 and these health centres are not yet fully operational yet Ugandans are already paying interest,” Nambooze noted. Ministry of Health standards require that a Health Centre III should have at least an outpatient department, general ward of not less than 20 beds, maternity ward, staff quarters, and at least 55 staff.According to MPs, these standards have not been met at most of the health centres. At a newly refurbished Nambale Health Centre III in Iganga District, the MPs met similar challenges of understaffing, limited supplies and infrastructural inadequacies.“Inadequate human resource remains a big challenge here. We also do not have enough staff accommodation in majority facilities which hinders service delivery as staffing norms of 1970 are still being considered that do not match with the increased population,” Dr Patrick Kitimbo, the acting District Health Officer, Iganga said. In 2019, Parliament approved a loan request authorising government to borrow US$55 million (about Shs200 billion) from the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank Group to support upgrading of health centre IIs to health centre IIIs.In 2021, Parliament again approved an additional loan request of Shs352.2 billion to complete the construction, rehabilitation and equipping of health centres. The committee continues with oversight visits to health facilities in Mbale, Butaleja and Butebo districts. Source: Parliament of Uganda