MPs challenge budget request of Shs 24 billion by Ministry of ICT

Members of Parliament on the Budget Committee have challenged a budget request of 24 billion Shillings by the Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) for a mindset change programme.

The request was communicated by the Vice Chairperson of Parliament’s ICT committee, Nathan Nabeta while presenting a report on the sector’s budget estimates for the next financial year 2023/2024 to the House Budget Committee. 

Nabeta recommended that the money is allocated to the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance to mobilize Ugandans on mindset change. He said that the mobilization is for families, communities and citizens for national development through various campaigns.

He told the Budget committee that according to the National Budget Framework Paper, the Directorate of Information Dissemination and National Guidance handling Community Mobilization and Mindset Programme was not allocated any resources.

However, MPs opposed the request and suggested that money for mindset change should only go to the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.

Dickson Kateshumbwa, the Sheema Municipality MP questioned why the ICT Ministry needs the money yet there is a similar programme under the Ministry of Gender.

Sylvia Nayebale, the Gomba Woman MP said that the suggested budget was high yet money for the same activity is also required in other ministries.

Ibrahim Ssemujju, the Kira Municipality MP said that government did not find the program worth funding and there is no reason why the Budget Committee should look for funds.

Barnabas Tinkasimire, the Buyaga West MP said it would be a duplication of roles by ministries requiring a budget for mindset change.

Prof Elijah Mushemeza, the Sheema South MP said that more money should instead be allocated to the digital transformation project. He said that the proposed budget for the mindset change programme is misplaced.

In the current financial year 2022/2023, the Ministry was allocated 6 billion Shillings for mindset change.