The Ministry of Finance has officially launched the National Budget Month for the Financial Year 2025/26, with a strong call for inclusive participation, fiscal transparency, and citizen ownership of the national budget process.
During the launch ceremony held at the Uganda Media Centre on May 29, Finance Minister Matia Kasaija underscored the Government’s commitment to strengthening good governance and inclusivity through deliberate reforms in budget planning and execution.
“A responsive budget process leaves no one behind. It is fundamental in building a just and equitable society,” said Kasaija. “This Budget Month allows all stakeholders to understand the approved budget and how it will impact their lives.”
The minister also praised the long-standing collaboration with Civil Society Organisations since 2018, which has promoted transparency and accountability in the budgeting process.
As part of the launch, Minister Kasaija unveiled the National Public Investment Management (NPIM) Policy, a transformative framework to enhance the planning, execution, and monitoring of public investment projects. The NPIM Policy is expected to maximise value for money through job creation, improved public services, and long-term economic growth.
“As we embark on implementing the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV), our goal is to grow Uganda’s economy from USD 50 billion to USD 500 billion in the next 15 years,” Kasaija said. “To achieve this, we must ensure better planning, efficient resource use, and timely delivery of impactful projects.”
Fiscal Consolidation and Domestic Revenue Mobilisation
Deputy Secretary to the Treasury, Patrick Ocailap, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fiscal consolidation, focusing on increased domestic revenue, limited borrowing for only critical investments, and enhanced efficiency in public funds.
“We are committed to full budget disclosure during this Budget Month and will use the platforms to communicate available opportunities and account for past commitments,” said Ocailap.
Representing the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), Commissioner Abel Kagumire delivered remarks on behalf of Commissioner General John Musinguzi, emphasising the goal of fully funding Uganda’s budget through domestic resources.
“This ambition is not for government alone. It requires full participation of every eligible citizen through tax compliance, civic vigilance, and shared responsibility,” said Kagumire.
“Citizens are not bystanders in the budget process. They are both contributors and beneficiaries. They fund the budget through their taxes, and they deserve to see the link between their contribution and the services they receive,” he added, quoting Commissioner General Musinguzi.
Civil Society Applauds Progress, Urges Focus on ATMS
Julius Mukunda, Executive Director of the Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group (CSBAG), commended the Government for approving the NPIM Policy and its growing commitment to climate finance.
However, he urged greater funding for Agro-industrialisation, Tourism, Minerals and Oil & Gas, Science and Technology (ATMS) and enhanced resource flows to local governments. He also warned against excessive domestic borrowing, calling for a vibrant private sector.
Budget Month Activities
The Ministry outlined a robust program of Budget Month activities spanning June and July 2025 to promote public engagement.
Key highlights include: Budget Reading – Thursday, 12th June 2025, Post-Budget Breakfast Conference by URA – Tuesday, 17th June, Business-to-Budget High-Level Dialogue by CSBAG – Tuesday, 17th June, Regional Budget Engagements and Taxpayer Dialogues – 19th to 27th June and Dialogue with Journalists and Editors – Friday, 27th June.
Additionally, blood donation drives, national and regional dialogues on tax and investment, and citizen feedback forums will form a core part of this year’s engagement agenda.