Fellow Ugandans, we welcome you all to the new year, 2025! As we step into this new year, we reflect on the progress our country has made in 2024 and recognize the challenges we continue to face as a country.

Global Leadership and Regional Influence

In 2024, Uganda demonstrated its growing influence in global and regional affairs by hosting the Third South Summit, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Group of 77 and China, reaffirming developing nations’ commitment to sustainable development, peace, and cooperation. Its leadership within the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) enhanced Uganda’s role in global governance, emphasizing trade, science and technology, and tackling global challenges like crime, terrorism, and climate change.

Healthcare Advancement and Public Health Resilience

Uganda’s health sector achieved significant progress, highlighted by the rollout of the malaria vaccine, a critical step in combating one of the country’s deadliest diseases. This complements ongoing prevention efforts like mosquito net distribution and indoor spraying. Additionally, investments in community health workers and the second National Action Plan for Health Security have strengthened healthcare systems and improved disease preparedness and response.

The Potential of the Parish Development Model

In 2022, the Government of Uganda launched the Parish Development Model (PDM) to transition 17.5 million Ugandans from subsistence living to active economic participation. Over three years, progress has been made in improving parish-level infrastructure and services increasing citizen engagement in government programs, supporting local business growth. However, challenges like limited citizen ownership, corruption and abuse of office hinder the program’s potential. Addressing these issues, particularly prioritizing the “mindset change” pillar, is essential for sustaining the PDM’s impact and achieving its objectives.

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