LIRA CITY — Lira City Council has approved a UGX 48.7 billion budget for the 2026/2027 financial year, with priority areas focusing on road infrastructure, education, urban development, sanitation, and improvement of public service delivery.

The budget was passed during a council sitting held at Lira Hotel, attended by councilors, members of the executive committee, technical staff, and heads of departments.

City leaders said the approved estimates are intended to support implementation of development programmes aligned with the National Development Plan and the growing infrastructure and service demands of the city.

Infrastructure and Road Works Prioritised

Road infrastructure received a significant share of the approved budget, reflecting the city’s continued focus on improving transport networks and urban mobility.

The planned works include:

Rehabilitation and maintenance of urban roads
Improvement of drainage systems
Installation of culverts in flood-prone areas
Routine road maintenance across city divisions

Councilors noted that improved road infrastructure is expected to enhance accessibility, facilitate trade, and support movement of people and goods within the city.

The council also emphasized the importance of drainage improvement in addressing flooding and protecting public infrastructure during heavy rains.

Education Sector Receives Major Allocation

Education emerged among the key sectors prioritised in the approved budget framework.

According to city authorities, funds allocated to the sector will support improvement of learning conditions in government-aided schools, school inspection activities, and strengthening of education management services.

The city also plans to support rehabilitation of school facilities and improvement of sanitation standards in learning institutions.

Council leaders said investment in education remains critical in promoting human capital development and improving future opportunities for young people.

Focus on Urban Development and Planning

The council further allocated resources toward urban development and physical planning as part of efforts to manage rapid urbanisation and promote orderly growth.

Planned interventions under the sector include:

Enforcement of physical planning regulations
Improvement of waste management systems
Beautification and upgrading of public spaces
Strengthening sanitation services
Regulation of construction activities

City officials said effective urban planning is necessary to prevent unregulated development and maintain organised expansion of the city.

Health and Community Services Supported

The approved budget also provides funding for health services, community development programmes, and environmental management activities.

Under the health sector, the city plans to support disease prevention programmes, public health campaigns, sanitation improvement initiatives, and supervision of health facilities.

Community development programmes will focus on youth empowerment, women’s initiatives, support to vulnerable groups, and livelihood improvement activities.

Environmental management interventions such as waste collection and public awareness campaigns on environmental conservation were also included in the approved estimates.

Revenue Mobilisation and Accountability

During the budget sitting, council leaders emphasized the need for prudent financial management, accountability, and effective implementation of approved programmes.

Departments were urged to ensure timely execution of projects and proper utilisation of public resources to achieve value for money.

The council also called for strengthening local revenue mobilisation to supplement central government transfers and support service delivery.

Residents and business operators were encouraged to comply with tax obligations to enable the city finance priority programmes and infrastructure projects.

According to the local government budget framework, the city expects financing from local revenue collections, central government transfers, and other development support mechanisms.

Councilors Welcome the Budget

Several councilors welcomed the approval of the budget, describing it as a step toward improving service delivery and supporting socio-economic transformation within the city.

Leaders expressed optimism that successful implementation of the planned activities would improve infrastructure, sanitation, and access to essential public services.

Some councilors, however, called for close monitoring of projects to ensure timely completion and effective use of resources.

Implementation Begins in FY 2026/2027

Implementation of the approved UGX 48.7 billion budget is expected to commence at the beginning of the 2026/2027 financial year following completion of the required administrative procedures.

City authorities said the budget provides a framework for continued urban development and improved public service delivery as Lira City continues to grow as a major commercial and administrative centre in Northern Uganda.

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