Museveni Calls for Rationalisation to Boost Public Service Efficiency

President Yoweri Museveni has strongly advocated for the strengthening of Public Service Standing Orders to improve efficiency and effectiveness in government operations. The president, who was speaking at a key meeting at State House Entebbe on Tuesday, September 3, emphasized the need for rationalisation as a crucial strategy for optimal resource allocation across government structures.

“Rationalisation must go on as the correct system by having a structure that is not extravagant,” Museveni said, highlighting the government's commitment to streamlining operations and reducing wastage. His call for rationalisation comes as a critical response to ongoing discussions about enhancing public sector performance.

During the meeting with Parliamentary Sectoral Committees on Finance, Planning & Economic Development, National Economy, and Agriculture, Museveni proposed the adoption of the RAPEX concept. He suggested a three-year transitional implementation period for the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) to ensure effective changes. By focusing on a single entity with a clear mandate, Museveni believes redundancy and inefficiencies caused by multiple stakeholders can be eliminated.

Museveni also stressed the importance of aligning public service with national objectives, advocating for an economic framework grounded in scientific knowledge. To enhance agricultural service delivery, he recommended revising government Standing Orders to include Agricultural Scientist Personnel at the sub-county level, aiming to improve agricultural practices and food production in Uganda.

President Museveni’s emphasis on rationalisation and a scientific approach signals a transformative effort toward creating a more efficient and responsive public service. The meeting was attended by key parliamentary leaders, including Amos Kankunda (MP Rwampara), Chair of Finance, Planning & Economic Development; Ikojo John Bosco (MP Bukedea), Chair of the National Economy; Linda Auma (Woman MP Lira), Chair of Agriculture; and Judith Alyek (Woman MP Kole), Chairperson of Equal Opportunities.

The Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, the Attorney General, Kiryowa Kiwanuka, and various government ministry coordinators also participated in the meeting, expressing their support for the President’s proposals, acknowledging their potential to streamline functions and enhance efficiency within the government.