Uganda has received a package of 20 million euro from European Union to support its budget for 2019/2020 fiscal year.
The money is part of €66m (about Shs277.7b) the EU approved last year after lifting the suspension of direct budget support to the country.
During the EU Day Celebrations, the head of EU delegation to Uganda, Ambassador Attilio Pacifici, said the funds would go directly to budget support.
He said government would account for the funds using the agreed mechanisms set in place.
“I am pleased to announce that we have just approved the disbursement of €20m (Shs84b). The Government will decide, within the Justice and Accountability sectors, how best to use this money, for instance to improve transparency in natural resources management.
“Also to verify the asset declarations of senior officials; to reduce the backlog of court cases or else.
“A second payment, also of €20m could materialise this year if the objectives agreed in the Financing Agreement are achieved,” Ambassador Pacifici said.
He also said discussions are already going on for the second phase of funds which are also expected to be released this year.
Ambassador Pacifici said the budget support is an indication of confidence in the Ugandan government. The EU suspended direct budget support in 2013 after gross corruption in the public sector.
“Last year we launched the first budget support programme since the suspension of this aid delivery mechanism in 2013. Providing budget support is for us the highest mark of trust for a partner.
Aid money is injected in the government’s budget and is utilised and accounted for based on rules, processes and procedures of the partner country.
“This new programme supports the justice and accountability sectors in which needs are massive and resources are scarce,” he added.
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