The Ministry of Works and Transport has revealed that in the upcoming financial year, 2026/27, the Government will not embark on new road projects. Instead, the focus will shift to completing all ongoing infrastructure initiatives. This decision comes after only UGX 690.5 billion was allocated for infrastructure projects, far below the UGX 2.3 trillion that had been initially requested.
The announcement was made by Katumba Wamala, the Minister of Works and Transport, during his appearance before Parliament’s Committee on Physical Infrastructure. He presented the 2026/27 Ministerial Policy Statement for the Ministry, detailing the Government’s plans for the coming fiscal year.
According to Minister Wamala, the budget allocation for infrastructure has faced significant cuts, leading to a shift in priorities. With fewer resources available, the Government’s immediate focus will be on finalizing ongoing road projects, many of which are vital to improving Uganda’s transportation network. The decision to pause new road initiatives in favor of completion of existing ones reflects the Government’s pragmatic approach to managing its financial constraints while ensuring that the progress made so far is not lost.
This move also indicates the importance of accountability in the Government’s handling of public funds. By concentrating on ongoing projects, the Ministry aims to ensure that previously allocated resources are fully utilized before new commitments are made.
The 2026/27 financial year will thus see an emphasis on finishing major infrastructure projects that are already underway, with the aim of improving the quality of roads and transportation within the country. As the Government navigates through the budget shortfall, the completion of these projects remains critical to achieving the long-term vision of a more efficient and sustainable transport system for Uganda.
The shortfall in the infrastructure budget has sparked concern within the industry, as many stakeholders were hoping for new road projects that could boost economic activity and improve connectivity across the country. However, the Ministry of Works and Transport remains committed to delivering on the projects it has started, even in the face of budgetary challenges.
