Uganda’s economic transformation from December 1985 to December 2023 reflects significant changes, largely due to the ideological shift introduced by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government in 1986.
At the time, Uganda was grappling with the aftermath of political instability and economic challenges, including rampant informal trading (magendo) and illegal business practices.
With the NRM’s rise to power, the government implemented a ten-point programme aimed at national recovery, peace, and stability.
One of the key pillars was the move away from direct government involvement in business, which included privatization of state-owned enterprises.
The focus shifted toward creating policies and initiatives designed to reduce poverty and stimulate economic growth.
Programs like Entandikwa, Emyoga, and the Parish Development Model were introduced to increase household income and promote grassroots development.
These initiatives aimed to empower communities, particularly in rural areas, by providing access to capital, skills training, and financial services.
The ultimate goal was to uplift living standards and improve economic opportunities for all Ugandans.
To ensure the continued success of these programs, it is crucial for Ugandans to actively participate and support government efforts. Embracing these initiatives can help sustain the positive trajectory of the economy and ensure that the benefits of growth are widely shared across the population.
