Taxpayers must see their contributions translate into services delivered – URA boss
With the URA often caught in the crosshairs of public scrutiny, Kagumire’s comments served as a reminder that the budget isn’t some mysterious government document cooked up in isolation.
Ugandans are not bystanders in the national budget; they’re the ones footing the bill, and they deserve to see value for every shilling they pay, Uganda Revenue Authority’s Commissioner for Executive Operations, Abel Kagumire, has said.
Kagumire was representing his boss, the URA Commissioner General John R. Musinguzi, at the launch of National Budget Month 2025/26 at the Uganda Media Centre on Thursday, 29th May, 2025, in Kampala.
Held under the theme “Full Monetization of the Ugandan Economy through Commercial Agriculture, Industrialization, Expanding and Broadening Services, Digital Transformation, and Market Access”, the month-long campaign was officially unveiled by Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, who set ambitious tones of economic expansion and inclusivity.
But it was Kagumire’s direct appeal that struck a chord: “Citizens are not bystanders in the budget process. They are both contributors and beneficiaries who fund the budget through their taxes and deserve to see the link between their contribution and the services they receive.”
In other words, if you’re paying taxes, you should be watching.
With the URA often caught in the crosshairs of public scrutiny, Kagumire’s comments served as a reminder that the budget isn’t some mysterious government document cooked up in isolation.
“The 2025/26 budget is more than a number; it reflects our priorities, values & aspirations. It’s about building an economy where every Ugandan can grow, contribute & thrive. Let’s shape a brighter future together!” Kagumire said, explaining that the budget is powered by Ugandans, the farmers, the boda riders, the shopkeepers, and salaried workers, whose taxes keep the country’s wheels turning.
National Budget Month
Launched in 2018, National Budget Month has grown into a key platform for engaging citizens, civil society, and government in promoting transparency, accountability, and better public service delivery.
This year’s Budget Month aims to bridge that disconnect by bringing budgeting closer to the people. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about national priorities, citizen voices, and seeing impact on the ground.
From digital transformation to market access, the government says it’s shifting focus toward full-scale economic engagement, encouraging Ugandans to not just pay into the system but to profit from it.
