Cultural Leaders’ Salaries in Jeopardy as Ministry of Gender Seeks Emergency Funding

Kampala, Uganda – The Ministry of Gender is seeking an additional Shs12.24 billion to pay the salaries of 17 gazetted traditional and cultural leaders, with each leader set to earn Shs60 million per month.

The request follows the Ministry’s argument that the allocated Shs1.02 billion in next year’s budget would result in a significant pay cut for each leader, from Shs60 million to Shs5 million per month.

Agnes Kunihira, the Workers MP, presented the request to the Budget Committee as part of the 2025/26 Budget Framework Paper for the Ministry of Gender.

However, MPs protested the proposed reduction, stating it would create tension between the government and the kingdoms.

The Ministry’s request is based on a 2022 cabinet directive, which stated that each of the 17 gazetted traditional and cultural leaders should receive a monthly salary of Shs60 million.

The directive was implemented in the 2024/25 financial year, but the proposed 2025/26 budget would see a significant reduction in funding.

The reduction has sparked concerns among MPs, who argue it would undermine the government’s commitment to supporting traditional and cultural leaders.

The Ministry’s request for additional funding aims to maintain the current salary structure and avoid potential conflicts with the kingdoms.