Minister for Local Government Balaam Ateenyi has called for a people-centred approach to budgeting, urging leaders in Busoga to ensure government spending reflects the priorities and needs of local communities.
Ateenyi made the remarks on Thursday, October 1, 2026, while opening the FY2027/2028 Budget Consultation Workshop for Busoga leaders, organised by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
The minister said the budgeting process should begin with citizens, arguing that local communities are best placed to identify the challenges requiring government intervention.
He emphasised the need for priorities raised at the parish, sub-county, municipal and district levels to be incorporated into government plans and budgets.
“A good budget process must begin with the people,” Ateenyi said, stressing that public resources should be directed towards programmes capable of improving services and addressing community needs.
According to the minister, local leaders have an important role to play in ensuring that budget priorities are properly identified and translated into practical interventions.
Ateenyi also called for greater emphasis on results, saying government institutions must demonstrate the impact of public expenditure rather than simply focus on budget allocations.
He further highlighted accountability as a key component of the budgeting process, insisting that public funds must be used efficiently and deliver tangible benefits to citizens.
“We must budget for results and strengthen accountability to ensure every shilling delivers value to the people,” he said.
The consultation workshop provides an opportunity for leaders from Busoga to contribute to discussions on priorities for the 2027/2028 financial year.
Ateenyi said the process should ultimately produce budgets that are responsive to local needs while strengthening service delivery across communities.