Government and UN Discuss Key Priorities at Joint Steering Committee Meeting

The annual Government-United Nations Joint Steering Committee meeting to review progress on implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2021-2025) was held in Kampala on 9 May 2024. The meeting was co-chaired by the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja and UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Susan Namondo Ngongi.

The meeting was attended by representatives from Government (Ministries, Departments and Agencies) including Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and technical staff; the Local Development Partners Group (LDPG); Private Sector and Civil Society Organisations. 

The meeting reviewed collective humanitarian and development efforts by the UN system in 2023 in support of implementation the third National Development Plan (NDP III). The meeting also provided strategic guidance on pertinent issues including enhanced coordination and key priorities going forward to benefit all Ugandans.

The Prime Minister highlighted Uganda's partnership with the UN, which has contributed significantly to development. She emphasized the importance of aligning the next UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026 - 2030 with the country's national objectives, particularly the implementation of the fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV), whose formulation is underway. 

UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Susan Namondo Ngongi, stressed the need to strategically position the partnership for the future, with a next UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030 expected to be finalized by the end of next year. She noted that the collaboration between the Government of Uganda, the UN, and multiple development actors remains crucial for driving progress. 

The meeting demonstrated the commitment to multilateral cooperation and partnership progress, paving the way for continued advancement in Uganda's development and humanitarian efforts. 

Several key areas of focus emerged from the meeting, which will guide joint efforts moving forward:

• Disability Inclusion: Deliberate integration of disability considerations in all programming. 

• Health Promotion: Prioritizing health promotion to reduce the disease burden. 

• Sustainable Urban Development: Emphasis on well[1]planned towns and decent housing. 

• Strategic Growth Areas: Aligning UN programmes with Uganda's strategy to grow tenfold in sectors like agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral beneficiation, and science and innovation. 

• Early Warning Mechanisms: Strengthening these systems to enhance preparedness for shocks and disasters. 

• Improved Coordination: Breaking silos to ensure better coordination and avoid duplication of efforts and resources.