Concerns are mounting among civil society organizations over Uganda’s proposed NGO Funding Bill, with critics warning it could restrict civic space and increase state control over foreign funding.
In statements to the media, Dr. Sarah Bireete, executive director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance, said, “If not handled carefully, this bill could limit the operating space for NGOs and CBOs.” Activist Sarah Mukasa added, “The timing and purpose of the bill suggest it could be used more for control than support.”
Amid the debate, youth advocate Nyanzi Martin Luther stepped forward to clarify that the proposal is personal and intended to support local NGOs and CBOs struggling to access foreign funding. “I tried reaching some of you on emails, but there were no replies. What did you expect?” he said in a phone interview. Nyanzi also noted that oversight under the bill would fall under the Ministry of Gender and Social Development, not the Ministry of Internal Affairs, a point confirmed by Dr. Bireete.
Also Read: NGO Funding Bill 2026 Proposes Sweeping Reforms on Foreign Funding taxation and accountability
Nyanzi explained that the bill seeks to reduce reliance on foreign donors, promote local sustainability, provide tax and fee relief for essential operations, and strengthen accountability and transparency. He stressed that it does not prohibit foreign funding and explicitly protects lawful NGO activities. “I beg the members of civil society organizations, including Dr. Bireete, to consider this bill because it helps the nation and NGOs,” he said.
Although the bill has not yet been formally presented to Parliament, the discussions underline the need for consultation with stakeholders to ensure any reforms support NGOs without compromising their independence.
CSOs have called for careful engagement to ensure the sector continues to function effectively in areas such as education, literacy, health, and community development. Dr. Bireete said, “Civil society must be actively involved so that any regulatory reforms strengthen, rather than weaken, the sector.”
The Uganda NGO Funding Bill has sparked widespread debate over the future of civil society operations and funding in the country
The proposed NGO funding bill remains under discussion, with proponents asserting that proper collaboration and dialogue could make it a tool to enhance local NGO sustainability while maintaining accountability.
written by @enock katamba
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Enock Katamba – Journalist | Founder of Uncovered Ug (uncoveredug.com)
Enock Katamba is a Ugandan journalist and founder of Uncovered Uganda, a digital online news platform covering health, national news, entertainment, celebrity gossip, music, education, business, sports, and international news. He focuses on delivering accurate, timely, and reliable information to keep the public informed.
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