President Yoweri Museveni has disclosed that government ceased funding the Karamoja Development Agency (KDA) due to severe financial mismanagement.

Speaking at the Karamoja Cultural Event in Karenga District, the president responded to local leaders' calls for the reinstatement of the now-defunct agency, which they believe was vital for the region's development.

The Karamoja Development Agency, established in 1987 by an Act of Parliament, was tasked with overseeing development across sectors like education, agriculture, and health in the Karamoja sub-region.

However, due to allegations of financial misappropriation, it was dissolved and replaced by the Ministry for Karamoja Affairs, which now coordinates all government programs in the area.

Addressing the audience, President Museveni highlighted the reasons for shutting down the agency, saying it failed to prioritize key issues.

He further revealed that the agency had misused Shs2.2 trillion in funds obtained from the European Union for regional development initiatives.

Museveni emphasized that, despite local leaders' requests to reinstate the agency, the government remains focused on ensuring responsible leadership and effective resource management.

He stressed the need for prioritizing critical areas, such as water for production, to drive sustainable development in Karamoja.