By Hunter FM radio Reporter.

MITOOMA UGANDA: The Mitooma District Local Government has submitted a motion to elevate Ruhinda North County to district status, renaming it Bitereko District, citing the need for effective administration and improved service delivery to the local population.

The proposal, dated 29/4/2026, references Article 179 of the Constitution and Section 7(i) of the Local Governments Act CAP 318, which guide the creation of higher and lower local governments. Factors driving the request include geographical challenges (River Nchwera and Rift Valley escarpments), population density, economic viability, and the desire to bring services closer to residents.

The proposed Bitereko District will comprise five sub-counties: Bitereko, Kiyanga, Kanyabwanga, Kigyende, and Rwoburunga, plus Rutookye Town Council. Additionally, three lower local governments—Rwempungu Town Council, Kisiizi Town Council, and Bitereko Town Council—are awaiting ministry approval.

Bitereko District will have nine lower local government units with a total population of 79,929 (35,153 males and 44,776 females), distributed as follows:

- Bitereko Sub County: 23,209 people (10,207 males, 13,002 females).

- Kanyabwanga S/C: 16,231 people (6,984 males, 9,237 females).

- Kiyanga S/C: 14,128 people (6,326 males, 7,800 females).

- Rutookye T/C: 11,130 people (4,766 males, 6,364 females).

- Kigyende S/C: 6,102 people (2,672 males, 3,430 females).

- Rwoburunga S/C: 9,131 people (4,188 males, 4,943 females).

The move aims to enhance administrative efficiency and bring government services nearer to the people of the region.

Elevating Ruhinda North to Bitereko District will improve local governance and spur economic development in the area,” said a district official.