Uganda at 64: How far have we come?

Uganda reflects on 64 years of independence, highlighting significant infrastructure and economic growth alongside persistent challenges like corruption and youth unemployment. Experts note that while the nation has made strides in education and regional peace, systemic issues continue to hinder full development.
Why it matters
Understanding the developmental trajectory of African nations provides insight into the broader challenges of post-colonial governance and economic modernization.
The Entebbe Road flyover in Kampala. Uganda has registered remarkable infrastructure growth over the years. photo/file
As Uganda marks 64 years of independence, the nation is reflecting on a complex journey defined by remarkable resilience, systemic developmental bottlenecks and a critical turning point for its youthful population.
Dr Edgar Kateshumbwa Mwesigye, a senior lecturer of Public Administration and Management, who heads the Department Politics and Administration Science in the School of Management Science at the Uganda Management Institute (UMI), says Uganda has registered development milestones over the past 64 years.
He cites the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) diversifying significantly beyond traditional agriculture, driven by expansions in services, industrial manufacturing and infrastructure development.
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