Lira, Uganda | President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has approved the creation of Erute District from Lira District, saying the move will improve service delivery by bringing government closer to the people.
Museveni, who is also the NRM presidential flag bearer, made the announcement on Thursday during a campaign rally at Lira City Golf Course.
The President said residents of Erute constituencies have for years struggled to access services due to the area’s size and geographical location, prompting government to reconsider its long-standing position against the creation of new districts.
Although Museveni noted that he has previously opposed the creation of many districts because of the cost implications, he said the situation in Erute warranted an exception and that the district would be operationalised in the next financial year.
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At the same rally, Museveni also announced that Cabinet has approved a cattle restocking compensation programme for the Lango, Acholi and Teso sub-regions, with payments set to begin after the forthcoming general election.
The President said the programme will be implemented through cash compensation to beneficiary households, following earlier restocking efforts that were delayed by prolonged court cases and legal disputes.
According to Museveni, government has since injected Shs159 billion into the compensation framework.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ochero reminded the President of several pending government commitments in the region, including completion of the Anai airport, construction of the Lira Chamber of Commerce offices, establishment of industrial parks, and the pledge to donate a bus to the Lango Province football team.
The rally also featured political undertones, with Speaker of Parliament Anita Among urging Museveni to prevail upon Gender Minister Betty Amongi not to contest against Dr Aceng in Lira City.
