The Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Matia Kasaija, has urged Ugandans to meet their tax obligations to enable the government to deliver essential services and drive national development.

Speaking at the Uganda Media Centre during the launch of the 2025/26 Budget Month, Kasaija emphasized the importance of tax compliance in funding government programs.

This year’s budget theme is “Full Monetisation of Uganda’s Economy through Commercialized Agriculture, Industrialisation, Expanding and Broadening Services, Digital Transformation and Market Access.”

Kasaija expressed concern over a growing trend of tax evasion among Ugandans.

He questioned why many citizens are unwilling to pay taxes, despite the fact that tax revenue plays a vital role in improving infrastructure, supporting businesses, and enhancing the overall quality of life.

Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, Patrick Ocailap, pointed out that the ministry continues to face challenges due to the increasing number of supplementary budgets passed by Parliament.

He explained that these unplanned financial demands put pressure on the ministry and complicate budget execution.

Stephen Asiimwe, Executive Director of the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), called on the government to establish a Tourism Development Fund.

He said such a fund would help tourism sector players access affordable financing to expand and modernize the industry.

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