Uganda Parliament Probes Discrepancies in Health Sector Budget Reporting

By Mintesinot Nigussie

Uganda’s parliamentary Budget Committee has raised concerns over inconsistencies in government health reporting. This has triggered fresh scrutiny regarding the transparency of public health resource allocation for next year.

The issues emerged as lawmakers reviewed budget proposals presented by the Health Committee on Monday. The accuracy of facility upgrade claims has become a central point of contention for the members.

At the center is a Ministry claim that 34 Health Centre IIIs had been upgraded to Health Centre IV status. Lawmakers questioned this figure, citing discrepancies between the report and actual supporting documents.

Hon. Patrick Isiagi noted that some listed facilities are not yet completed or appear to be missing entirely. He has called for a fully verified list before any further progress is made on the budget approvals.

Hon. Joseph Ruyonga admitted there were significant gaps in the documentation provided to the committee. The Ministry reportedly sent the actual selected facilities list only on the morning of the session.

Broader concerns were raised regarding regional equity in the distribution of new health infrastructure. Lawmakers alleged that some districts benefit repeatedly while others are consistently left out of funding allocations.

“At least each district should benefit before repeating allocations in the same areas,” Isiagi emphasized during the debate. Accountability remains a top priority for the committee as they review health spending.

The committee also examined the 20 billion Ugandan shillings allocated for the National Ambulance System. Questions remain about whether the current procurement estimates reflect the actual market costs for the units.

Attention also turned to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations and the readiness of Hoima Regional Referral Hospital. The hospital has requested more funds than currently allocated to handle potential tournament emergencies.

The Budget Committee is now expected to verify all submitted facility lists to ensure accuracy. The process will continue as parliament seeks to finalize the health sector's financial roadmap.