The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), through its Regional Hub in Kampala, has commended Uganda for the remarkable progress and impact achieved under the Local Economic Growth Support (LEGS) Project, which the Bank has funded since 2019.
The commendation was made during a final mission monitoring visit to Katakwi District, led by Dr. Issahaq Umar Iddrisu, Manager of the IsDB Regional Hub in Kampala.
The mission held a briefing with district leaders and project stakeholders at the district headquarters, followed by a tour of project sites.
In his remarks, Dr. Umar applauded the Government of Uganda and its implementing partners — the Ministry of Local Government, Millennium Promise Alliance, and the Microfinance Support Centre — for their strong coordination, commitment, and dedication to improving livelihoods through the LEGS Project.
“Uganda stands out as a model among the countries supported by the Islamic Development Bank,” he said. “Each time we share examples of successful project implementation, Uganda features prominently.”
Operational in 17 districts, including Katakwi, the LEGS Project has focused on strengthening local infrastructure and boosting livelihoods at the grassroots level. Dr. Umar particularly commended district leaders for their unwavering support to communities, which he said had translated into tangible results — including the construction of community access roads, provision of water for domestic and commercial use, and establishment of bulking and agro-processing facilities.
In recognition of these achievements, Dr. Umar announced that the Islamic Development Bank had approved the second phase of the LEGS Project, which is scheduled to begin in 2026, paving the way for expanded and sustainable local economic empowerment initiatives across Uganda.
“This approval is a direct result of the good work and the successes registered under the first phase of the project,” he emphasized.
Implemented by the Ministry of Local Government, with funding from the Islamic Development Bank and the Lives and Livelihoods Fund, the LEGS Project aims to strengthen local economic development by improving infrastructure, promoting community enterprises, and creating employment opportunities in rural districts.
As the mission concluded its field visit, the Bank’s positive feedback reaffirmed Uganda’s reputation as a leader in effective project implementation and its continued commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
The visit also formed part of the Bank’s broader efforts to assess implementation progress, document best practices, and ensure accountability in the use of development resources.
