Rukungiri Leaders Benchmark in Kasese to Boost Urban Development Under UCMID

Kasese: Leaders from Rukungiri Municipal Council have today March 25, undertaken a benchmarking visit to Kasese Municipal Council to exchange knowledge and strengthen implementation of the Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development (UCMID) Programme.

The delegation, composed of both political and technical officials, was hosted at Kasese Municipal Council Hall, where the Mayor of Kasese, Chance Kahindo Sibyavugha, welcomed the team and emphasized the need for unity and teamwork in delivering quality services. He urged leaders to address internal challenges collectively, noting that meaningful development is achieved through coordinated efforts and strong leadership.

Rukungiri Municipality Mayor, Charles Makuru, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and the opportunity to learn from Kasese’s experience. He highlighted key benchmarking areas including solid waste management, local revenue enhancement, environmental management, and infrastructure development such as slaughter facilities.

During the engagement, Allen Kiiza, the Senior Planner and UCMID Focal Person for Kasese Municipal Council, presented key benefits realized from the programme. She cited improved urban beautification, enhanced security through street lighting, growth of the night-time economy, increased tourism, and overall economic transformation.

Kasese Municipal Council Finance Officer, Alex Bulemu, shared strategies that have boosted local revenue collection. These include strong political backing, public accountability through effective feedback systems, formation of landlords’ associations, and use of media platforms such as radio to sensitize taxpayers.

In his closing remarks, Rukungiri Municipal Council Town Clerk, Isaiah Tumwesigye, thanked Kasese Municipal Council for the insights shared and reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to applying the lessons learned. He emphasized the importance of community ownership in ensuring the long-term success of the UCMID Programme and improving service delivery in Rukungiri.