'Colleagues, money has come': Uganda's viral budget post sparks memes, criticism

A lighthearted social media post from Uganda’s Parliament announcing, “Colleagues, money has come,” after unveiling the Ush72.3 trillion (USD 20 billion) 2025/26 national budget, has gone viral, drawing widespread ridicule and debate online.

Intended to mark the tabling of the government’s latest spending plan, the post instead became instant meme fodder across East Africa.

Netizens couldn’t resist the tone-deaf phrasing, interpreting it as a reflection of Uganda government’s 'clumsy' messaging on serious economic matters.

Uganda Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, who has held the portfolio since 2015, presented the hefty budget meant to fund various government programs. Yet, many citizens and observers found the messaging odd.

Social media users responded with a blend of humor, sarcasm, and sober reflection.

“Ugandans, is the budget okay? Or should we protest on your behalf?” X user Tensai Movil joked, drawing laughter.

Another user, Gift William, sarcastically referred to Kasaija as “a comedian,” suggesting the finance minister’s unintended humor might be the only thing landing with the public.

Some, however, took a more serious tone. Benon Gowa reminded followers that budgets aren’t jokes, they’re blueprints for national priorities. “A national budget confirms the government's priorities, and citizens (and other resident nationals) contribute a part of their income to the needs of the state. Supplementary requests distort national planning,” he wrote.

Even Ghanaians commented. User Nii Ashong weighed in ironically: “The economy is doing wonderfully,” while Kenyans asked that the post be deleted.

“Delete this post before Kenyans see it,” Gabriel Oguda quipped. Another Kenyan user joked, “After revolution in Kenya, we must rescue Ugandans.”

But it wasn’t just the viral post that caught attention. Uganda’s budget briefcase, often modest and formal, unlike Kenya’s, was another top contender for debate.