Uganda validates its Vulnerability Profile as it prepares for LDC graduation

Uganda held a two-day national validation of its Vulnerability Profile, an important step in preparing for the country’s anticipated graduation from the United Nations Least Developed Countries (LDC) category.

The workshop, organised by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development in collaboration with UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD), brought together government, the United Nations, private sector, civil society, academia and development partners to review Uganda’s structural vulnerabilities and agree on priority actions for a smooth transition.

Uganda first met the criteria for LDC graduation in March 2024. If the country sustains this progress at the next triennial review in March 2027, it is anticipated that Uganda could graduate in 2032, following the required five-year preparatory period.

Speaking at the workshop, the UN Resident Coordinator in Uganda, Leonard Zulu, said graduation should be viewed as an opportunity to accelerate Uganda’s broader transformation.

“Graduation should become a catalyst for broader economic transformation, rather than simply a change in international classification.”

The Vulnerability Profile highlights areas requiring continued attention to ensure that Uganda remains on a positive development trajectory, including productive capacity, resilience to shocks, human capital, quality jobs and inclusive and sustainable development. It also underscores the importance of strong partnerships as Uganda prepares for the transition.

The Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Shartsi Kutesa Musherure, said Uganda’s focus must now be on ensuring that economic growth delivers tangible benefits for its people.

“The challenge is no longer simply growing the economy but ensuring that growth translates into jobs, household incomes, enterprise development and prosperity for every Ugandan.”

The validation was aimed atstrengthening national ownership of the Vulnerability Profile and help translate its findings into a clear, sequenced policy agenda aligned with Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan and the Tenfold Growth Strategy.

For the United Nations, the process is an opportunity to support Uganda in building a more inclusive, resilient and prosperous economy as it moves towards and beyond LDC graduation.