Uganda launches 1 trillion shilling project to create jobs in northern regions

The Ugandan government launched the fourth phase of the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund (NUSAF IV) to reduce poverty and improve livelihoods in nine sub-regions.

The initiative will run until December 2031 and focuses on areas including Acholi, West Nile, Lango, Teso, Karamoja, Elgon, Bukedi, Busoga, and Bunyoro. The programme intends to create 860,000 jobs and build resilience for 1.8 million vulnerable people.

World Bank official James Ebitu told local leaders to prioritize transparency and ensure that resources reach the people who need them most. Local leaders expressed different concerns about the project, with some warning against the diversion of funds and others calling for the inclusion of climate change protections and youth skills development. Alex Kakooza, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, told district leaders to include these activities in their development plans while avoiding political favoritism.

State Minister for Northern Uganda Beatrice Akori advised leaders to use community engagement and radio broadcasts to inform residents about how to access the programme.