Over the last 20 years, Uganda has achieved one of the most dramatic reductions in the income poverty headcount of any country in Africa – from 70% living on less than $1.25 a day in 1992 to 38% in 2009. Economic growth was approximately 6% in 2013–14, and planned public sector infrastructure investment is expected to boost growth fur ther to 6.5% in 2014–15. Uganda’s debt continues to be sustainable; however, its revenue to GDP ratio (estimated at 13.7% for 2013–14) remains the lowest in east Africa. Despite high headline growth rates over the last 2 decades, much of this growth has not translated into adequate employment through decent jobs. With high population growth, levels of youth unemployment are increasing. Uganda’s policy framework for social services is strong. It prioritises equitable access to quality social services; however, policies are often not well implemented. Governance trends are concerning and corruption is endemic. In 2013, the UK decided to indefinitely suspend budget support to the Government of Uganda following the 2012 corruption scandal in the office of the Prime Minister.

Top priorities

• promoting good governance and combating corruption
• improving maternal and reproductive health
• supporting economic development and growth including youth skills and job creation
• increasing access to financial services and regional trade
• protecting the poorest and most vulnerable

Further resources

FCDO Operational Plan for Uganda
Uganda page on GOV.UK website

Note: Many country summaries were written prior to the creation of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and are being incrementally refreshed.