Tumwebaze Warns Non-Performing Veterinary, Community Development Officers Risk Dismissal

Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Frank Tumwebaze, has issued a stern warning to veterinary and community development officers, stating that those who fail to effectively implement government programs risk dismissal. The minister emphasized the government's commitment to enhancing accountability across public service.

Tumwebaze expressed concern over persistent underperformance among some district-based technical officers, noting that inefficiency at the grassroots level hinders government efforts to improve livelihoods and drive socio-economic transformation. "We cannot continue paying officers who are not delivering services to the people. Those who fail to perform their duties risk losing their jobs because government is determined to ensure accountability at all levels," he declared.

The minister highlighted the strategic importance of veterinary officers in Uganda's agriculture-dependent economy, where livestock significantly contributes to household incomes, food security, and export earnings. Failures in animal disease surveillance, farmer support, and livestock health management can severely impact agricultural productivity and rural incomes.

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We cannot continue paying officers who are not delivering services to the people. Those who fail to perform their duties risk losing their jobs because government is determined to ensure accountability at all levels.

He also pointed to community development officers, stressing their crucial role in mobilizing citizens, monitoring government interventions, and ensuring beneficiaries access empowerment programs. Weak performance in these roles can undermine key government initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation and income enhancement.

"The era of complacency is over. Every officer must justify their presence in office through measurable results that improve the livelihoods of our people," Tumwebaze asserted. He urged district leaders and local government administrators to strengthen supervision of technical officers, ensuring they focus on delivering tangible outcomes for citizens. This warning aligns with the government's increased focus on performance management and evaluation across all its agencies.

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The era of complacency is over. Every officer must justify their presence in office through measurable results that improve the livelihoods of our people.