MP Ariko’s Lobbying Pays Off As Soroti Secures Ugx 1.9 Billion For Key Projects

 April 9, 2026   |    6 views

By Our Reporter

Soroti District is set for a major infrastructure boost following the allocation of UGX 1.9 billion by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to fund critical development projects—an achievement widely attributed to the relentless lobbying efforts of outgoing Soroti City East MP and now Gweri County MP-elect, Hon. Herbert Edmund Ariko.

Ariko, who also serves as the Soroti NRM District Chairperson and Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Natural Resources, has leveraged his legislative and party leadership roles to push for increased government investment in the district.

A Strategic Win for Infrastructure Development

According to an official communication dated February 25, 2026, the funding will support several priority projects, notably the construction of the Soroti District Headquarters administrative block, which has received the lion’s share of UGX 1 billion.

Other allocations include UGX 300 million for the construction of a maternity ward at Awaliwal Health Centre II, UGX 200 million for repairs on the Awoja–Gweri Road, and UGX 400 million for administration blocks in Ocokican and Lalle sub-counties in Soroti County.

The development has sparked excitement across Gweri County, with leaders and residents hailing Ariko’s proactive engagement with central government as a turning point for service delivery.

Leaders, Residents Applaud Ariko’s Results-Oriented Leadership

Speaking to this publication, Awaliwal Sub County LC3 Chairperson-elect, Hon Peter Ebau Ochom, described the funding as “a long-awaited breakthrough.”

“For years, our people have struggled with inadequate facilities, especially in health and administration. This funding is a clear sign that our voices have finally been heard. We thank Hon. Ariko for standing firm and pushing these issues to the center,” Ochom said.

Residents of Awaliwal echoed similar sentiments, praising Ariko for what they termed as “action-oriented leadership.”

“We have seen leaders make promises before, but this time, we are seeing results even before he fully settles into office. This gives us hope for the future,” Moses Ecaat from Atogwang village noted.

Leaders from neighboring sub-counties also weighed in, applauding both Ariko and the government for prioritizing grassroots development.

Aukot Sub County LC3 Chairperson, Chris Ogulei, commended the ruling party’s commitment to service delivery.

“We thank Hon. Ariko and the NRM government for bringing services closer to the people. This is exactly what development should look like—responding to real community needs,” Ogulei remarked.

“This Is Just the Beginning” – Hon Ariko

In an exclusive interview, Herbert Edmund Ariko reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Gweri County, emphasizing that the current funding is only the beginning.

“This is just the first step. We engaged government based on the urgent needs of our people, and I am glad we are seeing a positive response. More support is coming, especially in roads, health, and education. Gweri deserves better, and we will not stop until we achieve it,” Ariko said.

At the party level, Awaliwal Sub County NRM Chairperson, Emmanuel Ajalu, credited the success to teamwork and effective representation.

“Hon. Ariko and the Gweri County local leaders worked tirelessly to present the pressing issues affecting Gweri County. Their coordination and commitment ensured that our concerns were not ignored. This is a victory for all of us,” Ajalu said.

The funding is expected to significantly improve service delivery, particularly with the establishment of a modern Soroti district headquarters and enhanced healthcare infrastructure in Awaliwal.

As implementation begins, optimism is high that Soroti District is entering a new chapter—one defined by responsive leadership, strategic lobbying, and tangible development outcomes.