As Uganda prepares its national budget framework for the 2026/27 financial year, pressure is mounting on the government to address long-standing pay disparities within the local government structure.
The Uganda Local Government Workers Union has renewed its call for comprehensive salary enhancements for employees serving in districts, municipalities, and cities across the country.
The demand comes against the backdrop of an industrial action staged by civil servants in October 2025, when public sector workers laid down their tools to demand improved remuneration.
That strike was later suspended following an intervention by Anita Annet Among, who met workers, teachers, and vocational training staff on October 8.
She urged them to reconsider the timing of the strike, citing concerns that the action could disrupt ongoing presidential campaigns.
Union leaders now say the suspension of the strike was an act of good faith and patience, but that the underlying concerns remain unresolved.
Hassan Lwabayi Mudiba, General Secretary of the Uganda Local Government Workers Union, reminded government that it had committed in 2018 to implement phased salary enhancements due to limited financial resources.
He noted that while other sectors have benefited from incremental salary adjustments over the years, local government employees have largely remained excluded from meaningful improvements.
Lwabayi described the situation as increasingly unsustainable, pointing to the widening gap between stagnant wages and the rising cost of living.
He emphasized that many local government workers have earned the same salaries for periods ranging from six to fifteen years despite mounting economic pressures.
“Workers are not happy; they are suffering and have been patient while working under very hard conditions. If the government does not provide a clear program for salary enhancement, we fear they may go on strike,” he said.
The warning signals growing frustration within the decentralized public service workforce, which plays a critical role in implementing government programs at grassroots level.
Akena Lamex Lambert, Workers’ Councilor 5 for Gulu City, reinforced the union’s position, arguing that current salary levels no longer match prevailing living expenses.
He pointed out that sectors such as science teachers have already received pay enhancements, creating disparities within the broader public service.
“The cost of living has gone up, and salaries need to reflect that. If other sectors are receiving enhancements, it should apply across the board. Everyone deserves fair compensation,” he said.
Union representatives stress that their appeal is not merely about wage increments, but about equity and recognition of the essential services delivered by local government personnel.
Among those expected to benefit from the proposed salary review are Deputy Chief Administrative Officers, Town Clerks, City Town Clerks, principal officers, entry officers, and support staff.
As budget consultations intensify ahead of FY2026/27, the government now faces renewed calls to outline a clear and time-bound roadmap for fulfilling its earlier commitment to phased salary enhancement within the local government service.
