During the first lockdown in March last year, Ugandans and several private companies contributed over Shs23 billion to government in fight against COVID-19.
However, this time round many individuals and companies are shunning from making any kind of donation as reports indicate that the COVID funds was lost to mismanagement and unexplained expenses of government officials.
The public has been demanding for accountability of the funds. Different government officials have issued contradicting statements about the funds with some saying the funds donated by Ugandans were intact in the bank while others said they used it to procure ambulances and pick up vehicles that are yet to be delivered.
While appearing on a local television yesterday, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja refuted claims of mismanagement and urged Ugandans to contribute more money.
“Many contributed to COVID-19, some gave cash and we decided to buy vehicles for all districts. We ordered for them from Japan and they are coming, some have arrived.
We have paid all the medics who were demanding us. I ask the Ministry of Health to break down for Ugandans how the money was used. We ask Ugandans to give us more money because for sure the money you contributed was not misappropriated,” said Nabbanja.
She said government is not going to borrow money again to cater for COVID-19 as for now it has done budget cuts.
Earlier last week, The International Monetary Fund approved Shs3.6 trillion loan for Uganda.
On how far with the COVID-19 relief package for the vulnerable people, Nabbanja first denied claims that they are going to use the yellow book (NRM book).
“I have opposition members in the task force and their decisions are considered. Let us not politicize this,” she said.
She explained that two million people will receive cash relief.
The names of the vulnerable Ugandans are already being displayed. The process is taking long, allow us to be slow but sure. By Friday many will have received their money,” she said.