In anticipation of the 2026/27 budget, Ugandan Treasury Secretary Ramathan Ggoobi has issued a new directive that mandates accounting officers within government ministries, departments, and agencies to seek Cabinet approval before entering into contracts or Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with development partners for governance-related projects. This decision comes as part of a wider effort to ensure that all governance financing proposals are properly vetted and involve consultation with key government institutions.

The directive is detailed in the second budget call circular for the financial year 2026/27 and emphasizes the importance of involving the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs in the approval process. Ggoobi explicitly stated that any deviation from this directive would constitute a violation of Cabinet rules, underscoring the government's intent to maintain strict oversight over governance spending and partnerships.

This tightening of controls reflects a broader trend of increased scrutiny over public sector dealings in Uganda, particularly in areas related to governance and information communication technology (ICT). As the country strives to manage its budget more effectively, these changes may impact the operational dynamics between the Ugandan government and development partners, potentially leading to adjustments in how funding and projects are negotiated and approved. This move may fuel concerns among stakeholders about bureaucratic delays, but it also aims to ensure accountability in the management of public funds and governance initiatives.