A World Bank mission team has praised the Ugandan government for its strides in developing the country’s social and economic infrastructure. The commendation came at the conclusion of an implementation support mission for the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfer (UGIFT) program, held from November 4 to November 12, 2024.
In a statement shared by the Ministry of Finance on X (formerly Twitter), the World Bank team, led by Barbara Magezi, a senior public sector specialist, and Diana Nzioki, a financial management specialist, acknowledged the progress made under the UGIFT initiative.
“The government’s efforts to improve service delivery through enhanced infrastructure development have been noteworthy,” the statement quoted the team.
The UGIFT program aims to strengthen fiscal transfers from the central government to local governments, ensuring efficient and equitable financing for social infrastructure such as schools, health centers, and local roads. The mission assessed various projects across the country, focusing on their impact on improving access to essential services for Ugandans.
The World Bank team highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between stakeholders to sustain the momentum. They emphasized the need for ongoing capacity building, accountability, and transparency to maximize the program’s benefits.
The Ministry of Finance reaffirmed its commitment to working with development partners to drive national growth. “We appreciate the World Bank’s support and recognition of our efforts. The government remains dedicated to strengthening infrastructure as a key pillar for social and economic transformation,” the ministry stated.
UGIFT has been instrumental in bridging regional disparities by funding critical infrastructure projects in undeserved areas. With the World Bank’s continued support, Uganda aims to accelerate its journey toward inclusive development and improved living standards for all citizens.
