Uganda Minister issues directives on local government transparency and alcohol regulation

Uganda's Local Government Minister, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, has issued a series of directives aimed at increasing transparency and community productivity across local governments.

To promote accountability, the Minister ordered all local councils to allow media access to council sittings, mirroring the access granted to Parliament. Additionally, local governments must publicly display approved budgets on notice boards to facilitate “people-led audits” and allow residents to track service delivery and project implementation.

The directive also introduces strict regulations on alcohol and betting operations. Alcohol-selling establishments, including bars and “Malwa joints,” are prohibited from opening before 3:00 p.m. on working days. This measure is intended to reduce idleness, family issues, and crime associated with morning drinking. Furthermore, authorities have been instructed to arrest and prosecute any individuals or business owners found supplying alcohol to minors under the age of 18.