Lamwo in race against time as shs2b recruitment funds hang in the balance

Lamwo district local government is facing the risk of losing more than shs2 billion meant for recruitment due to delays in the hiring process, raising concern among leaders over continued gaps in service delivery.

The funds could be returned to the national treasury if the district fails to complete recruitment before the July deadline.

The matter emerged during a full council meeting on Monday, where councillors approved a new member of the District Service Commission (DSC), as required by the Ministry of Public Service.

The commission is mandated to oversee the recruitment of civil servants, including teachers and health workers.

Despite this step, the district is still awaiting formal approval of the commission from the ministry; a delay leaders warn could derail the entire recruitment process.

This is the second time Lamwo faces such a setback. In the last financial year, the district returned over shs1.4 billion intended for recruitment after failing to meet timelines, leaving key positions unfilled.

District Speaker James Ochola described the situation as urgent, directing both technical and political leaders to act swiftly.

“We cannot afford to lose this money again and the CAO and LC5 chairperson must urgently follow up with the Ministry of Public Service so that recruitment is done in time,” he said.

Chief Administrative Officer Chuna Moses Kapolon acknowledged the delays but assured the council that efforts are ongoing to resolve the bottlenecks.

“We have complied with the requirements and what remains is approval from the ministry, and we are actively engaging them to expedite the process,” Kapolon said.

LC5 chairperson Oyet Sisto Ocen emphasised the district’s commitment to ensuring the funds benefit the community, pledging to follow up the matter until approvals are secured.

Councillor Odida Macmicu called for fast-tracking the process, warning against repeating last year’s losses, while workers’ council representative Ouma Vincent noted that staff shortages are overstretching existing workers.

Youth councillor Abalo Doris added that delays are also denying job opportunities to young people.

With the deadline approaching, pressure is mounting on Lamwo leaders to secure approvals and avoid another costly setback.