Katumba Wamala Tips Successors On Integrity At Ministry Handover

Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, the outgoing Minister of Works and Transport, has called on the incoming leadership to maintain integrity and steer clear of mismanagement of public resources. Speaking at the official handover ceremony in Kampala, Katumba defended his record over more than eight years, asserting that he is leaving office with a clear conscience and is confident he could withstand any scrutiny of his tenure, emphasizing honesty and professionalism.

Katumba cautioned his successors against engaging in questionable transactions, advising them to rely on technical officers for specialized expertise. He credited the ministry's Permanent Secretary and technical staff for guiding him through complex administrative processes, which helped him avoid potentially problematic decisions. The outgoing minister also urged the new leadership to closely monitor fund disbursements, noting that actual amounts often fall short of budgeted figures due to revenue shortfalls at the Ministry of Finance.

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Let the Permanent Secretary and other technical people handle that. Please do not find yourself in a position where you are questioned and have to account for things you do not fully understand.

Highlighting critical infrastructure needs, Katumba pointed to projects essential for Uganda's co-hosting of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). These include the construction of a passenger terminal at Hoima International Airport and necessary road projects. He stressed the importance of completing the Hoima airport terminal by January 2027 and ensuring other roads are ready to support the tournament, urging the new team not to falter on these commitments.

Incoming Minister of Works and Transport Fred Byamukama, formerly a junior minister under Katumba, praised the outgoing minister for fostering teamwork. Katumba, who is moving to the Ministry of Public Service and is expected to retire from the military in July 2026, pledged to continue advocating for staff welfare. He also implored the new leadership to intensify efforts to reduce road accidents, identifying road carnage as a major public safety challenge in Uganda. The new ministerial team includes Musa Ali Siraje as State Minister for Works and Julius Maganda Wandera as State Minister for Transport.

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There is a passenger terminal that must be delivered at the airport in Hoima by January 2027, alongside other roads necessary for the smooth hosting of the tournament. Please ensure that we do not disappoint on this front.