National SDG Conference: UN Recommits to Supporting Uganda's Journey to Sustainable Development

The organisation of the conference was coordinated by the Office of the Prime Minister through the SDG Secretariat and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office.

The conference was opened by the Vice President of Uganda, H.E. Jessica Alupo representing the President and was attended by the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Minister for General Duties responsible for SDGs Rt. Hon. Justine Kasule Lumumba, Ministers, Members of Parliaments, Heads of the Government Department and Agencies. UN participants included the UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Susan Namondo, UN Heads of Agencies and representatives. Other participants were Development Partners, Religious Leaders, representatives from Civil Society and the Private Sector, and academia. In her remarks Rt. Hon. Nabbanja noted that “due to the significant milestone of the first National SDG Conference, the Cabinet passed a directive that SDG Conference is organised annually as a platform where all stakeholders will continuously reflect on SDG progress, identify and showcase catalytic innovations as well as make policy recommendations for accelerating SDG implementation and achievement.”

In her remarks, the UN Resident Coordinator noted that “the timing of this conference could not have been more opportune. It coincides with the upcoming SDGs Summit, slated for September 18-19, 2023, as part of the United Nations General Assembly. This global gathering will witness Heads of State and Government conducting a comprehensive review of the SDGs' progress at the midway point of their implementation. The aim is to provide high-level political guidance for transformative actions, ensuring the realization of the 2030 targets.”

She emphasized the crucial need for accelerated efforts to achieve the SDGs in light of the varied progress and the uncertainties that lay ahead. She highlighted the significance of public sector effectiveness, the power of decentralization, and the vital role of the private sector as a key partner in development. Additionally, she highlighted the importance of financing, harnessing the data dividend, and renewing efforts to protect the environment. While presenting the key messages and outcomes at the end of the conference, the Minister responsible for SDGs, Rt. Hon. Lumumba noted that “The Parish Development Model has emerged as a promising strategy for reducing vulnerability and driving inclusiveness at the local level and development partners have a vital role to play in supporting the localization of the SDGs in Uganda and effective partnerships between the government, civil society, and development partners are essential for mobilizing resources, sharing expertise, and aligning efforts towards the SDGs”

"The outcomes of this conference will be shared with the Cabinet for information and guidance. They will also be shared at the upcoming SDGs High Level Political Forum in July 2023 and the SDG Summit in September 2023 under the auspices of the United Nations General Assembly,” said Rt. Hon. Lumumba.