On January 26, Uganda marks Liberation Day, celebrating the sacrifices that paved the way for a transformative era under the National Resistance Movement (NRM). This year’s theme, “39 Years of NRM/A: Solutions to Those Who Re-sanctified Our Homeland,” highlights the enduring achievements of the NRM, from peace and stability to socioeconomic progress.
According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics Census 2024, Uganda’s population has surged from 14.7 million in 1986 to 45.9 million today. This remarkable growth reflects a nation where peace and stability have allowed communities to thrive, particularly in populous districts like Wakiso, home to over 3.4 million people.
Economic Growth: A Legacy of Stability
The census underscores Uganda’s economic progress under the NRM. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has grown from UGX 15.7 trillion in 1986 to UGX 127 trillion in 2020, driven by political stability and infrastructure development. Initiatives like road networks, hydro-power dams, and schools have fueled long-term growth, with GDP growth rates averaging 6.2% annually since 1986, compared to 1.5% in the years before.
Advancements in Health and Education
Life expectancy has risen from 48.1 years in 1991 to 68.2 years in 2024, with women living longer at an average of 70.1 years. Infant mortality has dropped to 34 deaths per 1,000 live births, and maternal mortality has decreased to 207 deaths per 100,000 live births. Increased access to healthcare, such as Health Centre IIIs in every sub-county, and vaccination coverage of 86.9% for children under two, underscore these gains.
Education has also seen significant strides, with literacy rates reaching 74% among Ugandans aged 10 and above. The working-age population (15+ years) now accounts for 57.4% of the population, with an unemployment rate of 12.3%.
Improved Living Standards
Households with access to improved drinking water sources have increased to 81.1%, and 53.4% of households use electricity for lighting. Modern amenities are becoming more widespread, with 41% of households owning radios, 23.1% owning televisions, and 4% owning computers.
The Census also highlights Uganda’s digital transformation: 8.9% of individuals aged 10+ use the internet for social networking, 15.7% for academic work, and 12.5% for business.
Boosting Livelihoods through Development Programmes
Of the 7.2 million households engaged in the money economy, 23.5% of those in the subsistence economy have benefited from initiatives like the Parish Development Model. These programmes aim to uplift communities by providing resources and opportunities for economic participation.
A Day for Reflection and Gratitude
The Census findings reveal the tangible impact of NRM’s policies over the past 39 years, fostering stability, growth, and opportunity. As Uganda celebrates Liberation Day, these achievements stand as a testament to the power of vision and perseverance.