By Diana Kintu
The Ministry of Local Government has begun a two-day review of Uganda’s Regional Development Programme (RDP) to evaluate its progress and impact over the past five years. The review, known as the Joint Regional Development Programme Annual Review (JRDPAR) 2025, is being held at the Speke Resort Convention Centre under the theme “Deepening Decentralisation to Improve Service Delivery.”
The workshop brings together officials from central and local governments, development partners, and stakeholders to assess achievements made under the RDP during the 2020/21 to 2024/25 period. The programme, which was implemented with an approved budget of UGX 3.8 trillion, has recorded an 89 percent release of funds and a 95 percent absorption rate, reflecting effective management of public resources.
According to Mr. Ben Kumumanya, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, the programme has played a key role in accelerating service delivery and promoting balanced regional growth. He noted that the RDP has delivered visible results that have transformed communities and enhanced local economic activity.
“Through this effort, the RDP delivered tangible results that improved livelihoods and strengthened local economies across the country,” Mr. Kumumanya said. “These achievements reflect the strong collaboration between government institutions and development partners committed to Uganda’s decentralisation agenda.”
Over the last five years, the RDP has made measurable progress in improving infrastructure and community services across more than 80 districts. The programme has supported the construction and rehabilitation of 3,800 kilometres of community access roads, easing transportation for farmers and improving access to markets, schools, and health centres. It has also facilitated the establishment and improvement of 237 school and market facilities, boosting education and trade in rural areas.
In addition, the programme distributed improved agricultural inputs to farmers to enhance productivity and food security. Investments in agro-processing facilities have further encouraged value addition, enabling farmers to earn higher incomes from their produce. The RDP has also supported digital innovations and entrepreneurship programs targeting women and youth-led small and medium enterprises, helping them leverage technology to grow their businesses.
Mr. Kumumanya emphasised that the government remains committed to deepening decentralisation and ensuring that local governments are well-equipped to deliver quality services to citizens. “We must continue building on the successes achieved so far to ensure that decentralisation continues to transform service delivery and reduce inequalities between regions,” he added.
The ongoing review is expected to provide key recommendations for improving coordination and efficiency in regional development planning. It also seeks to align future interventions with Uganda’s long-term development frameworks, including Vision 2040 and the Third National Development Plan (NDP III).
Through the RDP, the government aims to ensure that growth and development are inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of communities in every region. The review’s outcomes are expected to guide the next phase of implementation, ensuring that decentralisation continues to bring services and opportunities closer to the people.