The 4th Public Finance Management Conference convened by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda has spotlighted the urgent need for technology-driven reforms in Uganda’s public finance systems, with Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja calling for a shift in audit functions from compliance enforcement to value creation.
“You are the custodians of accountability,” Nabbanja told delegates at the conference, urging accounting officers and finance professionals to uphold integrity, transparency and efficiency in managing public resources.
She outlined key priorities including embracing digital transformation, responding to emerging risks and ensuring value for money in public expenditure. Nabbanja said effective Public Finance Management (PFM) would remain central to Uganda’s economic transformation, particularly as the country transitions into its Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV).
The Prime Minister also emphasised the need to expand domestic revenue, promote equitable and sustainable taxation, and ensure that “every shilling delivers real value to citizens.”
The conference brought together policymakers and finance professionals amid rising fiscal pressures and growing demand for improved service delivery.
In remarks delivered to delegates, ICPAU President David Timothy Ediomu said the country must adopt innovative approaches to strengthen public finance systems.
“With growing fiscal pressures and rising expectations for service delivery, there is need for smarter revenue strategies, stronger institutions and the adoption of digital solutions to ensure every public resource delivers impact,” Ediomu said.
Acting Accountant General Godfrey Ssemugooma said Uganda’s transition toward middle-income status would require sustained and inclusive growth anchored in disciplined fiscal management.
He identified targeted investment in high-impact sectors, improved project execution and accelerated digital governance as key priorities. Ssemugooma also described PFM as a central driver of Uganda’s “Tenfold Growth” agenda under NDP IV, highlighting digital systems as critical for improving efficiency, transparency and accountability.
Separately, Winnie Nabiddo of the National Planning Authority said closing accountability gaps and strengthening systems would be necessary to ensure policies translate into tangible outcomes.
“Effective public financial management isn’t just about identifying gaps, it’s about working together to turn solutions into real, measurable impact,” Nabiddo said.
In opening remarks delivered on behalf of ICPAU Chief Executive Officer Derick Nkajja, Charles Lutimba said the institute would continue engaging policymakers on economic reforms.
“ICPAU remains committed to contributing to national economic policy and promoting excellence in financial management,” Lutimba said, noting ongoing engagement with Parliament’s Sectoral Committee on Finance, including submissions on the Tax (Amendment) Bills.
The conference comes as Uganda faces increasing pressure to mobilise domestic revenue and improve efficiency in public spending to support long-term development goals.