The 4th Edition of the UG Economic Forum opened on September 16th at Next Media Park, under the theme “Unlocking Uganda’s Economic Potential: Strategies for Sustainable Growth and Development.”
The week-long forum, running from 16th to 20th September, provides a platform for the Private Sector and Government to collaborate, theorize, and create practical solutions around Economic Revival and its relevance to shaping Social, Economic, and Political interactions that drive national growth.
Day 1 focused on Optimizing Fiscal Strategies for Sustainable Growth, gathering leading economic thinkers, policymakers, and business leaders. In his opening remarks, Joe Kigozi, Chief Strategy Officer at Next Media, emphasized the critical role of media in promoting conversations about Uganda's economic future.
"At Next Media, we are committed to ensuring that the economy takes center stage in national discourse," Kigozi said. "Our airwaves are open to all the key players driving the economy, and we hope today's discussions spark ideas and solutions that leaders can carry forward."
Keynote speaker Ramathan Ggoobi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, delivered an in-depth analysis of Uganda’s economic standing. He proudly highlighted the country's growing significance as a key player in Africa’s economic landscape.
"Uganda is ranked the third most rewarding country to invest in Africa," Ggoobi said, "and we are projected to be one of the top five fastest-growing economies by 2031. We may be a small economy, but globally, Uganda is respected."
The forum proceeded with a highly engaging panel discussion featuring prominent figures in finance and economics.
The panelists included: Adu Rando, Managing Director of Nile Breweries Ltd (NBL)
Ramathan Ggoobi, PSST, Ministry of Finance
Tasha Balunywa, Senior Economist, Uganda Development Corporation (UDC)
Daniel Ayebare, Chairman of Uganda Financial Literacy Association.
The panel discussion explored fiscal strategies that could drive sustainable growth and economic development for Uganda, touching on key areas such as agro-industrialization, financial inclusion, and fostering innovation in sectors like ICT.
The forum’s first day concluded with insightful debates on Uganda's current fiscal policies and how they could be optimized to drive sustainable economic growth.
There was a shared optimism among the speakers and panelists that the conversations taking place at this year’s forum could lead to actionable solutions that bolster Uganda's development agenda.
The UG Economic Forum continues throughout the week, promising more in-depth discussions aimed at addressing Uganda’s economic challenges and leveraging opportunities for long-term growth