The National CSO Convention 2025 is convened by the Uganda National NGO Forum (UNNGOF) in partnership with the National Bureau for NGOs and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). The National CSO Convention 2025 is a crucial two-day gathering for civil society in Uganda, taking place on 30th September & 1st October, 2025, at Mestil Hotel, Nsambya.

Under the theme “The Future of Civil Society in Uganda: The Law, The Money, The Politics,” the convention will bring together diverse stakeholders to reflect on the sector’s current state in a rapidly evolving environment and chart a shared vision for its future.

Themes:

Discussions will center on four interrelated themes critical to the sector’s resilience and sustainability:

1. The Future of the NGO Regulatory Framework: Navigating the complex landscape following the NGO (Amendment) Act, 2024, and contributing to the ongoing review of the NGO Policy and Act.
2. Civil Society in Uganda’s Multifaceted Governance Context: Exploring strategies for sustaining constructive partnerships during politically sensitive periods and expanding civic space, especially in the pre-election climate.
3. Financial Sustainability: Adapting to a shrinking resource landscape by exploring local philanthropy, private sector partnerships, and income-generating activities to reduce reliance on external funding.
4. Technology and Digital Transformation: Identifying strategies for harnessing digital tools and innovations to improve efficiency, expand reach, and build organizational capacity despite barriers like uneven digital literacy.