Massive Pay Rise Looms For All Public Servants As Gov’t Tables UGX688.9 Billion Salary Plan

The Ministry of Public Service has unveiled a plan for a massive salary enhancement strategy targeting all public servants across Uganda—a move projected to cost taxpayers over UGX688.9 billion.

This proposal is detailed in the 2025/2026 Ministerial Policy Statement submitted to Parliament by the Committee on Public Service. The statement was presented on April 9, 2025, during a plenary session chaired by Ojara Mapenduzi, the Committee Chairperson.

“In FY2025/26, the Ministry plans to continue implementing the salary enhancement strategy, which requires UGX688.9 billion to close wage gaps in key sectors. However, this funding has not been allocated in the proposed budget,” Mapenduzi told Parliament. “While this phased approach demonstrates Government’s commitment to improving public servants’ welfare, the lack of allocated funds raises concerns about its feasibility. Without proper financing, salary disparities may persist, undermining morale, productivity, and service delivery.”

He added that the government has adopted a gradual implementation strategy due to budgetary constraints, prioritising critical sectors such as education, health, science, and other essential services.

Mapenduzi urged, “The Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Service, should ensure the required UGX688.9 billion is provided in the FY2025/26 national budget.”

The Committee also criticised the Government’s decision to prioritise salary enhancements for scientists alone, describing the move as inequitable and potentially demoralising to other public servants.

“Every worker plays a critical role in their field. Prioritising one group over others may breed dissatisfaction across the public service,” the report noted. “Salary enhancements should be implemented equitably and sustainably to avoid overcommitment and underdelivery.”

Civil Service College Expansion

To address capacity building within the civil service, the Ministry is also seeking UGX137 billion for the expansion and renovation of the Civil Service College Uganda (CSCU), established on July 1, 2010. The College provides in-service training, policy research, advisory services, and innovation support to improve public sector performance.

For FY2025/26, the Ministry has projected UGX400 million for training activities at CSCU, including performance improvement, induction, and strategic leadership training for staff from MDAs and local governments. Phase II of the College’s expansion, however, requires UGX137 billion in funding.

“The expansion is vital for enhancing the Ministry’s ability to deliver standardised, effective training programs,” said Mapenduzi.

He noted that the College currently faces several constraints, including inadequate accommodation, high lodging costs in Jinja for trainees, and decentralised training budgets and decision-making. These limitations have hindered the College’s ability to offer affordable and consistent training.

To address these gaps, the Committee recommended that the Ministry of Public Service strengthen partnerships with other ministries—such as the Ministry of Local Government—to align training objectives and maximise resources.

“The Ministry of Finance should provide UGX137 billion to support the expansion of CSCU facilities under Phase II construction,” Mapenduzi stated.

Push for National Emoluments Review Board

In a related development, the Ministry of Public Service is also requesting UGX7.860 billion for the establishment and operationalisation of the National Emoluments Review Board (NERB), aimed at harmonising salaries across the public sector.

The creation of the Board is intended to address the wide salary disparities between mainstream public servants and employees in statutory agencies.

According to the Committee, the NERB will promote good governance, enhance transparency and accountability, improve staff morale, and boost public confidence in government service.

However, a funding shortfall of UGX1.860 billion remains in the FY2025/26 budget.

“Following consultations, it was agreed that the Board should be established through an Act of Parliament to strengthen its mandate,” Mapenduzi said. “This will be incorporated into the ongoing amendment of the Public Service Act, with consultations currently underway with the First Parliamentary Counsel.”

He concluded by urging the Ministry of Finance to allocate the full UGX7.860 billion required for the establishment and operationalisation of the NERB in the upcoming financial year.