Minister Magyezi Applauds Leadership of Uganda’s New Cities for Impressive Progress

The Minister of Local Government, Hon. Raphael Magyezi, has commended the leadership of Uganda’s ten newly created cities for their remarkable achievements in governance, revenue collection, and service delivery.
Speaking during an official engagement, Minister Magyezi praised the strides made by local authorities in improving financial independence and urban management.
He noted that despite initial challenges, the cities have demonstrated strong leadership, resulting in increased revenue collection and enhanced public services.
"The progress we are witnessing in these cities is commendable. Local governments have taken up their mandate with dedication, leading to improved service delivery and more efficient revenue collection," Magezi stated.
The ten cities, officially operationalized in 2020 as part of Uganda’s decentralization strategy, include Arua City, Gulu City, Jinja City, Mbarara City, Fort Portal City, Masaka City, Mbale City, Soroti City, Hoima City, and Lira City. Their establishment aimed to boost regional economic development and reduce the strain on Kampala.
Recent reports indicate that these cities have significantly improved their financial autonomy through innovative revenue collection strategies. Local businesses, property taxation, and streamlined service fees have contributed to this success, reducing dependency on central government funding.
Beyond financial growth, the cities have made notable advancements in infrastructure development, urban planning, and waste management. Magezi attributed this success to the dedication of local leaders and the cooperation of residents in embracing development initiatives.
He urged city authorities to sustain this momentum and ensure long-term urban growth that aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040. He also reassured the government’s commitment to providing resources, strengthening institutional capacity, and fostering partnerships to enhance service delivery.
As Uganda continues its urbanization drive, the success of these new cities serves as a model for future development, laying the foundation for economic transformation and improved living standards nationwide.