UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | The government has suspended the creation of new cities, including regional cities, citing financial constraints and the need to protect critical social services.
The decision directly affects plans for operationalizing cities like Kabale, Moroto, Wakiso, Nakasongola, and Entebbe, which were approved by Parliament in 2020 but have yet to be implemented due to funding challenges.
State Minister of Finance Henry Musasizi announced the decision during a Parish Development Model sensitization meeting in Hamuhambo Town Council, Rubanda District, on December 21, 2024.
Musasizi, who is also the Rubanda East MP, said the Cabinet resolved on December 16, 2024, that the creation of new cities has been suspended to ensure resources remain available for essential services like healthcare, education, road construction, and poverty alleviation programs.
“I hear that some people are organizing a meeting to discuss the operationalization of Kabale City. I want to tell you that such a meeting will not alter the Cabinet resolution. I urge you not to waste your time attending it,” Musasizi stated, responding to reports of local mobilization in Kabale District demanding city status.
Musasizi emphasized that the government would not bow to pressure to establish additional administrative structures. Instead, the focus would remain on improving existing social services. He warned against efforts to push for Kabale City’s operationalization, urging individuals to respect Rubanda District’s autonomy and avoid spreading confusion.
The minister also criticized politicians advocating for new cities, alleging that their motives were primarily driven by personal interests rather than the well-being of citizens.
“If you want to contest, prepare yourself, present your case to the electorate, and convince them to choose you for any of the existing political offices. Pressuring the government to carve out new political units for your benefit will not work,” Musasizi said.
Currently, the 10 operational regional cities—Soroti, Lira, Gulu, Arua, Hoima, Fort Portal, Mbarara, Masaka, Jinja, and Mbale—are reportedly facing significant challenges due to inadequate funding. The government has prioritized strengthening these cities and other administrative units over creating additional ones.
“Our focus is poverty alleviation and improving lives, not spreading resources too thin by creating new cities,” Musasizi reiterated during the meeting.
The suspension has sparked debate in districts like Kabale, where local leaders and residents continue to push for city status. Despite these demands, the government remains firm in its decision to consolidate resources for better service delivery.
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