Inquiry: Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has demanded answers from the Ministry of Agriculture regarding the alarming expenditure of Shs7.3 million per goat in a failed goat distribution initiative.
Backdrop: The scrutiny stems from the December 2023 Auditor General’s report, which highlighted irregularities in the Shs15 billion Goat Roll-Out project implemented across seven districts. The project, aimed at boosting local livestock, witnessed the procurement of 2,902 local goats and the importation of 71 goats, totaling over Shs1.6 billion.
Audit Findings: Shockingly, a significant number of the distributed goats succumbed within the first week, raising suspicions of foul play. In Nakasongola district, all 150 goats, valued at Shs52.5 million, perished. Similarly, in Gomba district, out of 700 distributed goats worth Shs245 million, 259 goats, worth Shs90.7 million, met the same fate. This marked a total loss of 409 goats, amounting to Shs143 million, in just two districts.
Ministry’s Defense: Steven Kajura, the Project Coordinator at the Ministry of Agriculture, defended the extravagant expenditure per goat, attributing it to the procurement of high-pedigree animals from South Africa and Namibia. He justified the cost, citing expenses such as insurance and flight charges, which escalated the price to Shs7.3 million per goat. Despite criticism, Kajura emphasized the superior quality of the imported goats.
Public Outcry: The revelation has sparked public outrage, with taxpayers questioning the rationale behind such exorbitant spending on goats that failed to thrive in local environments. Many are calling for accountability and a thorough investigation into the procurement process to prevent future mismanagement of public funds.
As the PAC delves deeper into the matter, the spotlight remains on the Ministry of Agriculture to provide transparent explanations for the failed project and the wastage of taxpayer money on unsustainable ventures.
To Advertise With Us, WhatsApp: +256 200 940 010 or Email: Hello@bunyoromedia.com
