Government Launches Shs1tn NUSAF IV Project to Fight Poverty

What the report says

The Ugandan government has launched the fourth phase of the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund, or NUSAF IV, a Shs1 trillion programme aimed at reducing poverty and improving livelihoods in nine sub-regions. According to Nile Post, the initiative will run until December 2031 and cover Acholi, West Nile, Lango, Teso, Karamoja, Elgon, Bukedi, Busoga and Bunyoro.

The programme’s stated goals include creating 860,000 jobs and improving the resilience of 1.8 million vulnerable people. It is designed to build on earlier NUSAF interventions, which began in 2003 as part of efforts to support recovery and poverty reduction in northern Uganda. The latest phase is expected to focus on sustainable livelihoods and social protection, alongside broader community resilience.

The launch took place during an induction event for local government leaders and technical staff in Gulu City. Senior World Bank official James Ebitu urged local governments to ensure transparency and accountability in implementation, while Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister Alex Kakooza, speaking through NUSAF IV head Dr Robert Limlim, warned against political favoritism, unofficial payments and weak financial management.

Local leaders also raised expectations and concerns. Pader District chairperson Alfred Akena welcomed the project but cautioned against past problems such as fund diversion and poor delivery, while Gulu City Mayor Julius Achire Labeja said youth skills training and employment should be prioritised. State Minister for Northern Uganda Beatrice Akori called for public sensitisation so residents understand how to benefit from the programme.