Parliament has given the green light for State House to spend Shs40.6 billion on critical infrastructure upgrades, the procurement of new vehicles for the Presidential fleet, and the maintenance of national security systems.
The decision follows the presentation of the 2026/27 Ministerial Policy Statement for State House by Hon. Alex Byarugaba. While the initial request was Shs40.69 billion, only Shs27.22 billion had been initially allocated, prompting lawmakers to identify a Shs13.4 billion funding gap essential for the security of the “Fountain of Honour.”
1. State House Entebbe: First Major Refurbishment Since 2007
A significant portion of the budget is earmarked for the Entebbe State House, which has not seen major renovations since the 2007 CHOGM preparations.
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The Scope: Comprehensive refurbishment of the Entebbe complex.
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Upcountry Coverage: Regular maintenance for Nakasero State Lodge and 26 upcountry State Lodges across Uganda.
2. Upgrading the “Aging” Presidential Fleet
Lawmakers were informed that the current transport fleet for the President is aging and requires urgent replacement to ensure the effective mobilization of socio-economic transformation projects.
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Air Travel: The budget covers the annual maintenance of the Presidential Jet and Helicopter.
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Land Fleet: Procurement of specialized vehicles to facilitate presidential travels across all regions.
3. Addressing New Security and ICT Threats
Byarugaba underscored the urgency of investing in modern security technology to counter an “ever-changing security environment.”
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Advanced Equipment: Procurement of upgraded security and ICT systems.
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Rationale: The committee emphasized that these upgrades impact national security directly and should be treated with extreme sensitivity.
4. Shs42 Billion for Youth Industrial Hubs
Beyond infrastructure and security, Parliament approved Shs42 billion to expand the State House Youth Skilling Programme.
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New Facilities: Establishment of six new industrial hubs.
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Common User Facilities: Plans to set up facilities in 19 hubs (at Shs7bn each) to provide graduates with the machinery needed to start businesses.
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Skills Taught: Tailoring, welding, carpentry, bakery, shoe making, hairdressing, and motor mechanics.
Budgetary Breakdown at a Glance
| Item | Amount Approved (Shs) |
| Refurbishment, Fleet & Security | 40.6 Billion |
| Industrial Hubs (Youth Skilling) | 42.0 Billion |
| Funding Gap Identified | 13.4 Billion |
