Uganda’s social protection system struggles to recover
Uganda’s safety net programs proved inadequate during the coronavirus outbreak as millions of residents faced economic hardship without sufficient government support, experts said at a policy conference held at Serena Hotel in Kampala. The National Social Protection Dialogue 2025 examined how better targeting and outreach could protect vulnerable populations from falling into extreme poverty when crises strike.
Dr. Fred Muhumuza from Makerere University Business School said existing programs like Parish Development Model and Emyooga need stronger connections to broader welfare efforts. Every citizen deserves access to necessities such as shelter, medical care and schooling throughout their lifetime, he explained. Rural communities currently receive more comprehensive services than urban dwellers, while refugees and displaced people overwhelm available resources.
Uganda Vision 2040 outlines an expanded system that would provide retirement income for elderly residents, employment programs for jobless adults, and aid for children and disabled citizens. The framework identifies universal health coverage as a priority intervention to reduce household vulnerability.
