The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) of Uganda stands as a pivotal institution in the nation’s governance framework, driving the country’s socio-economic transformation with unmatched commitment and foresight. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, the OPM has evolved into a dynamic force, fostering resilience, policy coordination, and the seamless execution of government programs that contribute to Uganda’s broader development agenda. As Uganda strives to achieve its Vision 2040 goal of becoming a middle-income economy, the OPM remains instrumental in aligning governance efforts with national priorities, ensuring that no community is left behind.
The Strategic Mandate of the OPM: A Multi-Sectoral Approach
Tasked with overseeing critical national initiatives and fostering inter-governmental collaboration, the OPM has emerged as a key player in the nation’s development strategy. Through a multi-ministerial approach, the office ensures the seamless implementation of government policies, which are aligned with Uganda’s National Development Plan (NDP). The OPM’s leadership has been central to the successful rollout of the Parish Development Model, a revolutionary initiative that is transforming Uganda’s rural economy by directly financing grassroots economic activities in over 10,500 parishes across the country. With a budget of UGX 1.1 trillion, this initiative is lifting millions of Ugandans out of poverty and ensuring sustainable development at the grassroots level.
Humanitarian and Refugee Response.
OPM has played an integral role in humanitarian and refugee management. Uganda is proud to be the largest refugee-hosting nation in Africa, with over 1.7 million refugees from neighboring countries. The OPM, in collaboration with UNHCR and other stakeholders, has established self-sustaining refugee settlements equipped with schools, healthcare services, and vocational training programs, enabling refugees to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s socio-economic fabric.
Crisis Management and Disaster Risk Reduction: A Model for Africa
The OPM has also been at the forefront of disaster preparedness and emergency response in Uganda. In the face of natural calamities such as floods, landslides, and droughts, the OPM’s Disaster Preparedness Department has demonstrated unmatched agility in providing immediate relief to affected populations and facilitating long-term recovery plans. Over the last five years, emergency interventions have reached more than 300,000 individuals, helping them rebuild their lives and communities.
The OPM’s leadership in disaster risk management extends beyond immediate response; it focuses on building the resilience of communities against future shocks. Comprehensive climate adaptation strategies are being developed to ensure that Uganda’s agricultural and infrastructure sectors are more resilient to the effects of climate change.
Championing Accountability and Good Governance
One of the core functions of the OPM is to ensure transparency and accountability in the execution of government programs. In its efforts to promote good governance, the OPM works closely with the Inspectorate of Government and the Auditor General to combat corruption, enhance resource allocation, and ensure optimal use of public funds. Programs such as Emyooga, Operation Wealth Creation, and Parish Development Model are regularly scrutinized to ensure that resources are channeled effectively to reach those who need them most.
By reinforcing the importance of ethical governance and accountability, the OPM has positioned itself as the backbone of Uganda’s national development agenda, playing a critical role in both policy integration and implementation.
Fostering Regional and International Partnerships
Prime Minister Nabbanja’s strategic approach also extends to strengthening Uganda’s international relationships. As part of her role as the representative of H.E. President Yoweri Museveni at various international forums, the Prime Minister led Uganda’s delegation at the Africa Energy Summit in Tanzania. During the summit, African leaders, including Nabbanja, committed to addressing the continent’s energy deficit through the Dar es Salaam Energy Declaration, which aims to deliver affordable electricity to 300 million people across Africa within the next five years.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister’s working visit to a multi-billion fertilizer factory in Dodoma, Tanzania, is a testament to Uganda’s growing partnerships with neighboring countries. Bilateral talks with key stakeholders, such as the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) of Tanzania, are essential to advancing Uganda’s socio-economic development, particularly in areas such as energy, agriculture, and social security.
2025 At a Glance: Key Activities and Milestones
In 2025, the OPM will continue its transformative role through several impactful initiatives:
i. Completion of the Uganda Heart Institute’s Infrastructure Development Project: The Prime Minister has tasked stakeholders to ensure timely completion of the much-anticipated Heart Institute, a key milestone in Uganda’s healthcare expansion.
ii. Expansion of the Parish Development Model (PDM): The OPM will further expand this model, ensuring its success across all parishes, with a particular focus on financial inclusion, rural industrialization, and the creation of sustainable livelihoods.
iii. Ongoing Collaboration with Refugee Communities: The OPM will enhance its efforts to integrate refugees into the local economy by providing job opportunities, education, and vocational training, further reducing dependency on humanitarian aid.
iv. Disaster Risk Management and Climate Resilience Initiatives: The OPM will strengthen Uganda’s climate adaptation strategies, focusing on agricultural productivity, energy sustainability, and flood mitigation efforts in vulnerable regions.
v. Bilateral and Multilateral Cooperation: Ongoing diplomatic visits, including further engagements with Tanzanian officials and key regional stakeholders, will continue to strengthen Uganda’s trade, security, and socio-economic cooperation in 2025.
vi. Infrastructure Development for Hoima Stadium and AFCON Preparations: As part of preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, the OPM will oversee the completion of the Hoima Stadium and ensure local communities in Bunyoro benefit from emerging business opportunities tied to this international sporting event.
vii. Digital Governance and Public Sector Reforms: In the coming year, the OPM will prioritize digital governance reforms, streamlining government processes and ensuring greater transparency and service delivery through innovative technologies.
viii. Support for Local Governance and Decentralization: The OPM will continue to strengthen decentralization efforts, empowering local governments to take charge of development initiatives while ensuring alignment with national priorities.
Sustaining the Legacy: Looking Ahead
In the coming years, the OPM aims to continue fostering inclusive growth through strengthened decentralization, enhancing the capacity of local governments to implement national policies. This, in turn, will ensure that Uganda’s growth trajectory remains on track, with every citizen enjoying the fruits of development. Under the appointment of H.E. President Yoweri Museveni, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja continues to lead the OPM with unwavering dedication, ensuring that Uganda’s national transformation agenda remains robust and progressive.
Author:
Jinjo Francis
Office of the Prime Minister
Head, Communications Unit
