By Mike Rwothomio

The Zombo District Local Government presented its draft budget framework amounting to UGX 36,883,142,000 for the Financial Year 2026/27, During a council sitting held on Wednesday, 25th March 2026, at the District Headquarters.

The proposed budget places strong emphasis on human capital development, with the education sector receiving the largest allocation of UGX 15,983,675,000 (43.3%), followed by the health sector at UGX 7,045,961,000 (19.10%). Administration is allocated UGX 5,828,251,000 (15.80%), while the water sector receives UGX 901,284,000 (2.4%). The remaining resources will be distributed across other departments in line with the district’s approved development priorities and the national theme: “Full Monetisation of the Economy through Commercial Agriculture, Industrialisation, Services Expansion, Digital Transformation and Market Access.”

Mr. Mustafa Ongom, Secretary for Finance, Planning and Administration, urged councillors to support the budget during the approval process.

“I therefore call upon your commitment to fulfilling the aspirations and objectives articulated in this budget,” he said, while commending the collective efforts of all stakeholders in advancing the district’s developmental agenda.

Revenue sources for the FY 2026/27 include:Locally raised revenue: UGX 1,717,331,000 (4.66%)

Discretionary government transfers: UGX 5,609,107,000 (15.21%)

Conditional government transfers: UGX 28,432,703,000 (77.09%)

Other government transfers: UGX 1,004,001,000 (2.72%)

External financing: UGX 120,000,000 (0.32%)

Leaders have outlined Key strategies for successful implementation of the budget which amongst others include rigorous resource mobilization and management, effective coordination and networking, harnessing synergies among development partners, participatory community mobilization and empowerment, and an integrated approach to budget execution.

With the budget approval deadline approaching on 31st May 2026 in line with the Public Finance Management Act and local government budgeting guidelines, the Finance Secretary appealed to sectoral committees to expedite discussions on the proposals.

Council speaker Hassan Ringtho

The LCV Chairperson, James Oruna, expressed confidence that the approved budget will effectively tackle critical priorities, including infrastructure development and improvement of household livelihoods across the district.

The overall budget, aligned with national priorities, will support infrastructure improvements, commercial agriculture, and livelihood enhancement, while promoting proper resource utilization and community participation to overcome these constraints.

Council Speaker Hassan Ringtho commended councillors for their role in preparing the draft budget, which will guide the district’s development agenda once approved.

He also appreciated members of the public, particularly learners from Zombo Lower Primary School, who attended the session to witness local government proceedings.

Meanwhile, the Resident District Commissioner , Mr. Festus Ayikobua, called on councillors to strengthen monitoring and supervision of government programmes in their respective areas.

He emphasized the need for proper utilization of public resources to extend quality services to the district’s population of over 300,000 residents.

Benefits to Local Government and Communities

This budget framework offers significant benefits to Zombo District Local Government by enhancing fiscal planning, strengthening service delivery, and promoting sustainable local development.

Finance secretary Mustafa said "the heavy investment in education and health will support improved human capital, while increased focus on water and administration will bolster basic infrastructure and governance efficiency." 

Addressing Key Challenges in Zombo District

Ongom noted that , the proposed allocations are strategically designed to tackle persistent challenges facing the district.

Zombo continues to grapple with inadequate school infrastructure including classrooms, high dropout rates of around 10% , poor academic performance, and issues such as early marriage and teenage pregnancy.

"The 43.3% allocation to education will help address these gaps by improving learning environments, reducing dropouts, and enhancing overall educational outcomes for learners" Ongom said.

Though Zombo has nearly 17 health facilities, Leaders notes that Limited access to quality healthcare services contributes to public health burdens in the district. They say the 19.1% allocation will support better health infrastructure and service delivery, helping to improve maternal and child health, reduce disease prevalence linked to poor sanitation and water sources, and extend services to the wider population.

The draft budget estimates will undergo further scrutiny and formal approval by the district council in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act and local government budgeting guidelines. Once passed, it is expected to provide a solid foundation for accelerated service delivery and inclusive development in Zombo District.

Councilors during the proceedings.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa your number one grassroot information hub