Akena: “Local people must benefit from govt projects in their area”
BY OKIDI PATRICK
Pader| June 6, 2026
Pader District Chairperson Alfred Akena has called for increased participation of local contractors in government projects implemented in the district.
Akena said the principles of Local Economic Development demand that public investments directly benefit host communities, and that qualified local firms should be prioritised.
“We must ensure that local people benefit from government projects. The principles of Local Economic Development require us to prioritize contractors from within Pader where they have the capacity to deliver,” Akena said.
He expressed concern that several smaller contracts continue to be awarded to firms outside the district despite the presence of competent local businesses.
“It is not acceptable that even smaller contracts continue to go outside the district when we have qualified local firms,” he added.
Akena said his administration will strengthen local participation in procurement to retain resources within Pader and promote inclusive economic growth.
He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that procurement processes support local enterprise development and improve livelihoods.
The chairman’s strong stance signals relief for local contractors who have long decried being sidelined in favor of outside firms. If enforced, the policy could keep more money circulating within Pader’s economy.
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