Arua City has taken a major step in improving its road infrastructure after commissioning a brand-new motor grader worth UGX 1.2 billion, fully funded through the city’s locally generated revenue.
The commissioning was presided over by the Honourable Minister for Local Government, Raphael Magyezi, at the City headquarters.
Minister Magyezi emphasized the importance of responsible use, noting that the grader “belongs to the people and must be protected, properly maintained, and used responsibly for the benefit of all.”
He further highlighted the government’s commitment to equipping all cities with road construction and maintenance equipment to enhance service delivery and access across the country.
Arua City collected UGX 6.7 billion in local revenue in the 2024/2025 financial year and projects UGX 7.5 billion in FY 2025/2026.
This acquisition places Arua City alongside other municipalities, including Lira, Mbale, Mbarara, Nansana, Makindye, and Kira, which have also invested in road equipment using locally raised funds.
City Clerk Mr. Kyasanku David described the grader as a milestone for Arua City, which manages over 550 km of road network.
Previously, the city had to borrow graders from Obongi and neighboring districts, while hiring a grader cost UGX 1.5 million per day—a cost that was increasingly unsustainable.
The new grader, Mr. David explained, will significantly improve connectivity by opening new roads to schools, hospitals, and markets, ultimately enhancing service delivery for residents.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by officials from the Ministry of Local Government’s Urban Administration Department, district technical and political staff, representatives from the private sector, and members of the community.
With this locally funded investment, Arua City is poised to strengthen its road network, improve accessibility, and demonstrate how revenue collected at the city level can directly benefit communities.