By Vicent Emong
KUMI — Five Municipal Development Forums (MDFs) from Eastern Uganda have been equipped with skills and knowledge to support the implementation of the Uganda Cities and Municipalities Infrastructure Development (UCIMID) project, following a capacity-building training held in Kumi Municipality.
The training, organized by the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development in partnership with the Urban Authorities Association of Uganda, brought together about 50 participants from Kumi, Iganga, Bugiri, Kapchorwa, and Kotido municipalities.
Speaking during the training, Abogere Stephen, a Social Development Specialist from the Ministry, explained that municipal development forums are key platforms that enable citizens to participate in planning, decision-making, and service delivery.
“Currently, urban forums are operational in over 50 towns. They provide a platform for citizens to engage directly in development processes,” Abogere said.
He noted that the training focused on strengthening the roles of MDF members, including communication, conflict resolution, handling grievances, and mobilizing communities to actively participate in development initiatives.
“One of the key responsibilities of MDF members is to mobilize citizens to be responsive to the development agenda and also hold leaders accountable for service delivery,” he added.
Abogere emphasized that the ministry is conducting similar trainings across municipalities to empower voluntary citizen leaders and enhance collaboration between communities and local governments.
Using Kumi Municipality as a case study, he highlighted the expected benefits of the UCIMID project, including improved road networks, upgraded taxi parks, enhanced waste management systems, greening and beautification of urban spaces, and strengthened revenue mobilization.
“In the next six years, we envision a livable, productive, functional, and climate-resilient municipality,” he said.
Simon Ilaborot, Senior Planner at Kumi Municipal Council and UCIMID focal person, explained that the project will focus on infrastructure development and community engagement to ensure successful implementation.
“Sometimes projects face resistance due to land issues, but MDF members will play a key role in advocacy and community sensitization to ensure smooth implementation,” Ilaborot said.
He revealed that Kumi Municipality has already identified priority projects, including the renovation and upgrade of the municipal park as part of the UCIMID rollout.
Justus Akol, the Publicity Secretary of the Municipal Development Forum, said the training has equipped members with practical skills to engage communities effectively and manage conflicts that may arise during project implementation.
“We have learned how to communicate better with the community and ensure that development projects benefit everyone,” Akol noted.
Meanwhile, the Mayor of Kumi Municipality commended the Government of Uganda for supporting urban development initiatives and called for unity among leaders and stakeholders to ensure successful implementation of projects.
He also applauded the Ministry for including Kumi in the UCIMID program, noting that it will significantly improve infrastructure and economic opportunities in the municipality.
The training marks a key step in preparing municipalities for the rollout of UCIMID projects, with leaders expressing optimism that strengthened community engagement will drive sustainable urban development across the region.
