Uganda’s State Minister for Local Government, Justine Nameere, has recently sent a clear and strong message to all contractors, engineers, and technical staff involved in government infrastructure projects. She warned them against common problems like delays, poor quality work, and corruption.
Speaking at the launch of a new road project under the Rural Development and Food Security (RUDSEC) initiative in Dokolo District, Minister Nameere emphasized that the government will no longer accept subpar performance. She stated that there will be no extra time given for project completion. Any contractor found delivering shoddy work will have their agreement immediately ended, be placed on a list that stops them from getting future government contracts (blacklisted), and face legal action.
The Minister also outlined important steps to ensure these projects truly benefit local communities. She directed contractors to give priority to hiring local residents for jobs. She urged district leaders to closely supervise all projects and called on the community members themselves to protect construction equipment from theft or damage. As an example of this tough stance, she revealed that a contractor who abandoned the Adok Seed Secondary School project has already been fired and will soon be replaced.
Dokolo North Member of Parliament, Joseph Jones Ogwal, welcomed the new RUDSEC road project. He explained that better roads would greatly improve lives by helping farmers get their produce to markets, making it easier for children to reach school, and ensuring pregnant mothers and other vulnerable groups can access health facilities more quickly. He noted that such projects are vital for the government’s plan to boost the economy through agriculture.
However, MP Ogwal also highlighted urgent needs in his constituency. He appealed for help to solve regular flooding in Agwata Town Council, requested a proper Health Centre IV and ambulance services, and called for more efforts to increase rural electricity access, which currently stands at a low 30 percent.
This strong message from Minister Nameere underlines the government’s commitment to ensuring public funds are used effectively to deliver high-quality infrastructure that truly serves the people, while holding those responsible for poor work accountable.