The Ugandan Secretary to the Treasury has instructed government officials to obtain Cabinet approval before signing governance-related agreements with development partners.
Dr. Ramathan Ggoobi, the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury, has emphasized the importance of Cabinet clearance for governance agreements in his recent directive to Accounting Officers across various government sectors. This instruction, outlined in the Second Budget Call Circular for the fiscal year 2026/27, is intended to ensure that any contracts or Memoranda of Understanding with development partners align with government policies and receive proper oversight. Ggoobi specifically noted that these agreements should not be finalized without prior consultation with the Cabinet, as mandated by Cabinet Minute 164 (CT 2025).
The directive aims to streamline the process of engaging with development partners on governance issues by enforcing a structured consultative framework. Dr. Ggoobi's call for caution reflects broader concerns about the governance and financial integrity of public sector dealings. As Uganda continues to navigate complex partnerships with international organizations, the emphasis on Cabinet approval is expected to mitigate potential risks associated with governance-related financing proposals.
Moreover, this move might signify a shift towards greater accountability and transparency in public service management, underlining the government's commitment to regulatory compliance. For public officials, adherence to this directive will be crucial in maintaining the integrity of governance projects and ensuring they contribute positively to national development objectives.
