Internal Affairs Ministry Requests Shs46 Billion to Bolster Border Staffing Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, led by Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, has requested Shs46 billion to increase personnel at border points amid staffing shortages. The plea was made during a presentation to Parliament’s Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs on March 31, 2026.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs is pushing for Shs46 billion to enhance staffing across Uganda’s border points. This came up as Minister Gen. Kahinda Otafiire and his team defended their Ministerial Policy Statement for the upcoming financial year before the Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs on March 31, 2026.
Dr. Stephen Okello, representing the ministry on the NGO Bureau, highlighted the need for 1,286 staff members, with only 702 positions currently funded. He noted that of the 72 gazetted borders, just 53 are operational, leaving 19 unmanned and vulnerable to trafficking and undocumented migration.
Okello also pointed out that only 33% of these borders have ICT coverage, relying on outdated data capture methods that pose risks to national security. He mentioned challenges in providing passport and immigration services to Ugandans abroad, suggesting that adequate funding would allow deployment of immigration attaches overseas.
Gen. Otafiire emphasized broader budget shortfalls affecting NIRA, Uganda Police Force, and Prisons Services. He urged the committee to maintain budget levels post-supplementary to ensure service delivery and avoid arrears.
MP Brandon Kintu from Kagoma North County criticized the unfriendly attitude of immigration officers at Entebbe Airport, calling for training to improve their demeanor and support tourism and investment. Committee Chairperson Hon. Wilson Kajwengye sought updates on a private contractor joint venture for passport printing facilities.
