Nairobi, Kenya — April 19, 2026 In the heart of Uganda’s rural communities, the daily struggle against inflation is a relentless dance with nature’s bounty. Women rise before dawn, toiling in their gardens to cultivate vegetables that nourish their families. Yet, this osmotic battle against economic adversity is threatened by a new wave of indirect taxes that loom over their meager incomes.
The 2026/2027 fiscal year budget, which allocates approximately $23 billion, includes a 52% tax incidence expected to be shouldered by citizens.
The government’s strategy to raise an additional US$1. 1 billion through new tax policies and enforcement measures has sparked a growing concern among advocacy groups, particularly for the impact on women’s financial stability. Faith Lumonya, the Tax, Trade and Digitalisation Coordinator for Africa and Arab Countries at Public Services International (PSI), underscores the disproportionate effect of these taxes on women. “.
In Uganda, women generally spend a higher share of their income on essential goods, “she told Pan African Visions, “and this tax is likely to heavily affect women’s income and/or investment capital in small business sectors.”.
The proposed excise duty increases on petrol, diesel, sugar, cooking oil, and the imposition of a 15% withholding tax on sports and pool betting winnings are seen as regressive, disproportionately affecting low-income earners who spend the majority of their income on consumption.
As Uganda grapples with a significant funding gap in maternal health, the proposed tax reforms raise questions about the government’s commitment to gender-responsive policies. With women predominantly responsible for care-giving and often falling under the poverty line, the proposed tax measures could further deepen economic inequalities.
The ruling National Resistance Movement Caucus has endorsed the new taxes, prioritizing peace and security, infrastructure, and salary enhancements for teachers and security personnel.
However, these priorities do not align with the immediate concerns of women who are at the forefront of Uganda’s economic challenges.
The debate over tax reforms and their impact on women’s health and economic well-being is a critical one.
As the budget is finalized and implemented, the nation must navigate the complex interplay between fiscal policy and gender equality, ensuring that tax reforms are equitable and do not disproportionately burden the most vulnerable populations.
The proposed tax reforms in Uganda are a stark reminder of the intricate balance between economic growth and social justice.
As the nation moves forward, it is imperative that the voices of women are heard and that policies are crafted with a gender — responsive approach, ensuring that the economic strides do not leave behind those who are most in need.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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By This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Panafricanvisions
Source: Pan African Visions
