In a significant demonstration of international solidarity and enduring diplomatic ties, the Government of Japan has extended a fresh contribution of US$6.6 million to support Uganda’s humanitarian and development priorities. This vital funding will enhance efforts across critical sectors—ranging from refugee support and food security to climate resilience and emergency health preparedness—further solidifying Japan’s role as a reliable development partner in Uganda.
The announcement was made during a joint press conference held at the Office of the Prime Minister in Kampala on Wednesday, 16 April 2025, officiated by H.E. Sasayama Takuya, Ambassador of Japan to Uganda, and the Right Honourable Prime Minister Robina Nabbanja.
A Stronger, Targeted Partnership for Development
In her address, Prime Minister Nabbanja expressed profound appreciation for Japan’s commitment, describing the contribution as a timely and well-aligned response to Uganda’s development priorities. She highlighted the importance of targeted interventions in vulnerable regions, especially Karamoja and refugee-hosting districts.
“We are deeply grateful to the Government and people of Japan for this invaluable support,” Prime Minister Nabbanja remarked. “This contribution directly speaks to our national development priorities and the broader global agenda on forced displacement, food security, and climate adaptation.”
Bilateral Commitments in Action
Beyond the current contribution, the Prime Minister acknowledged recent milestones in the Japan-Uganda development relationship. In March 2025, both governments signed a landmark agreement worth 4.939 billion Japanese yen (approximately UGX 121 billion) for the reconstruction of Karuma bridge. Additionally, IOM received US$1 million in 2024 from Japan to reinforce Uganda’s border management systems—an essential intervention given the country’s hosting of over 1.8 million refugees.
Another critical initiative, implemented through UNFPA and launched in June 2024, addresses integrated sexual and reproductive health and gender-based violence, benefiting both refugees and host communities. Japan committed US$4.3 million toward this effort implemented through the UN agencies. She reiterated Uganda’s commitment to deepening the existing partnership with the Govt of Japan and full collaboration with the UN agencies and other development partners. The joint conference is a platform that highlights the crucial role of collaboration advancing Uganda’s Vision 2040 and in the successful implementation of Uganda’s Development Plan IV
Call for Transparency, Accountability, and Local Involvement
While applauding the generous support, Prime Minister Nabbanja provided firm guidance on accountability and the need for greater involvement of Ugandan leaders in project execution. Referring specifically to the Kiteezi waste management project, she expressed concern that some activities may not yield meaningful results due to underfunding or misaligned priorities.
“We had a meeting with the Ambassador for Humanity and raised the issue of Kiteezi,” she noted. “I want to be candid—some of the activities proposed under this project may not provide value for money. I will write to the Government of Japan to express our concern and request for enhanced support or review of the scope.”
She emphasized that development assistance must translate into real, tangible benefits for the people of Uganda. “The money we put in software sometimes doesn’t help our people. I urge the UN agencies to ensure this money is used effectively, and I will consistently request reports.”
Further, the Prime Minister called for deeper engagement between the Government of Japan and Ugandan stakeholders. “The leaders of Uganda must be involved. If we are to truly make a difference, the implementation of these projects must be inclusive and locally driven.”
Resilient and Inclusive Development
This contribution aligns with Japan’s broader commitment to multilateralism and African-led development under the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD). The upcoming TICAD 9 Summit in Yokohama (August 2025) and the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville (June 2025) are expected to reaffirm global partnerships that prioritize investment in vulnerable and high-need regions like Uganda.
UN Resident Coordinator Leonard Zulu praised the strategic nature of the contribution, stating: “This is not just an act of generosity—it is a deliberate investment in resilience, dignity, and sustainable development.”
Strengthening Ties, Empowering Communities
As Uganda faces the intersecting challenges of climate shocks, displacement, and economic vulnerability, Japan’s support emerges as a beacon of effective international collaboration. But as Prime Minister Nabbanja underscored, the true success of such support lies in transparent implementation, local ownership, and continuous monitoring to ensure every dollar translates into a better life for Ugandans.
The Government of Uganda remains resolute in defending and advancing this strategic partnership and will continue engaging with Japan and UN agencies to ensure development outcomes are both inclusive and impactful.
