12th Annual Report on the state of Equal Opportunities in Uganda
Foreword
It is my distinct honor to present the 12th Annual Report on the State of Equal Opportunities in Uganda under the theme “Inclusive Service Delivery for Sustainable and Equitable Development”.As mandated by Section 24 (2) and (3) of the EOC Act, Cap 7, this report stands as a critical accountability instrument, providing a comprehensive assessment of the country’s progress in promoting equity, non-discrimination, inclusion, and social justice across all sectors of society. It reflects Uganda’s continued commitment to upholding the constitutional principle of equality and ensuring that no one is left behind in national development.Globally and nationally, the pursuit of equal opportunities remains central to sustainable development and social cohesion. Sustainable Development Goal 10 calls for the reduction of inequalities within and among countries, while Uganda’s Vision 2040, the National Development Plan III (NDP III) and the NRM Manifesto 2021/22–2025/26 place inclusive growth and equitable service delivery at the heart of the nation’s transformation agenda.
Guided by these frameworks, Uganda has continued to register measurable progress in expanding access to services and opportunities for all.Over the past years, the country has experienced remarkable economic growth, with the economy tripling in size to UGX 226.3 trillion in FY 2024/25. This steady growth has provided a strong foundation for widening access to essential services and improving the quality of life for many Ugandans. Poverty has reduced significantly, declining from 24.5 percent in FY 2010/11 to 16.1 percent in FY 2023/24, while the proportion of people living in the subsistence economy has nearly halved. Income inequality has shown a modest but important improvement, with the Gini coefficient falling from 41 percent in 2020 to 38 percent in 2024. These gains reflect the country’s commitment to broad-based development and demonstrate the impact of sustained investments in health, education, housing, and social welfare among others.Within this context, the report examines a wide range of thematic areas that reflect both national priorities and emerging equality concerns. It assesses Government achievements in redressing inequalities and promoting equal opportunities; analyses gender and equity considerations in national planning and budgeting; and reviews the status of lower secondary education.
The report further evaluates access to health facilities in island and mountainous communities, participation of marginalized groups in political processes, and the state of equal opportunities in access to decent housing. It also examines the prevalence and implications of substance abuse among youth, the impact of the creation of new districts on service delivery, and the extent to which recommendations made by the Equal Opportunities Commission in previous Annual Reports have been implemented. The report concludes with evidence-based conclusions and actionable recommendations to guide policy and practice.Fellow Ugandans, as we move forward, it is crucial that Uganda safeguards and builds upon the gains made over the past decade. Protecting these achievements requires continued vigilance, sustained investment, and deliberate policies that prevent reversal of progress particularly in sectors that directly affect vulnerable groups. As economic and social conditions evolve, so must our commitment to ensuring that equality, fairness, and inclusion remain central to national development.As we reflect on the progress made and the challenges that remain, I commend all partners who continue to work tirelessly towards a more just, inclusive, and equitable Uganda.
The perspectives shared by government institutions, civil society organizations, development partners, and other actors were invaluable in strengthening the analysis and shaping practical recommendations. The findings of this report highlight the necessity of sustained collaboration among government entities, civil society, the private sector, faith-based institutions, and development partners. Effective implementation of the recommendations will require collective action and shared responsibility to address the structural drivers of inequality. In this regard, the role of Parliament remains critical in strengthening oversight and advancing laws and policies that promote equal opportunities and inclusive development for all citizens.Finally, I extend my sincere gratitude to His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda for his continued leadership in advancing equal opportunities, social justice, and balanced development across the country. His commitment to uplifting all Ugandans especially those historically marginalized has played a significant role in shaping national policies and interventions that promote fairness and equity.Together, we can build a Uganda where equal opportunities are not just a policy aspiration, but a lived reality for every person.
FOR GOD AND MY COUNTRY
Hon. Safia Nalule JuukoCHAIRPERSON