LocationsUganda launches the 2023/24 UNDP Human Development Report
May 15, 2024
Participants during the launch of the Human Development Report in in Uganda.
The 2023/2024 Human Development Report (HDR), themed "Breaking the Gridlock: Reimagining Cooperation in a Polarized World", was launched globally on March 13, 2024. Subsequently, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Makerere University, launched the report in Uganda on March 20, 2024.
UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor during the HDR Launch.
Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor, UNDP Resident Representative, opened the launch event by highlighting Uganda’s progress in the latest Human Development Report, moving from the category of low human development to medium human development.
She celebrated Uganda's development progress and stressed the need for strong institutions and a focus on well-being, not just Gross Domestic Product (GDP), to continue to drive Uganda’s development journey. She also emphasized Uganda's potential for further advancement by investing in quality of life and engaging youth.
Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja during the HDR Launch.
The guest of honour, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, extended greetings from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and highlighted the report's timely relevance to Government programs, particularly as Uganda prepares for the fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV).
"The findings of this report are a testament to our collective commitment to shaping a better future for Uganda and beyond," the Prime Minister said. "I urge all participants to draw inspiration from our progress and remain firm in our commitment to achieving the SDGs."
Mr. Bagire Waiswa, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
"Uganda's development journey requires unwavering commitment and global cooperation," said Mr. Bagiire Waiswa, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "The Human Development Report's emphasis on collective action resonates deeply with our Ministry's work. We recognize the dangers of escalating conflicts and under preparedness for crises. Together, through strong multilateral systems and adherence to the principle of 'Leaving No One Behind' we can build a more equitable and resilient Uganda, and by extension, a more prosperous world."
Ms. Susan Namondo giving a speech during the HDR Launch
The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Ms. Suzan Ngongi Namondo, highlighted Uganda's performance and eligibility for consideration to graduate to a lower-middle-income country if certain conditions are met. She emphasized the implications of such a graduation. "The world is changing, and how we adapt to that is the challenge," Ms. Namondo said. "In this era of uncertainty, we have to double down and ensure we focus on our resilience, adaptability, and preparedness."
H.E Upender Singh Rawat, Indian High Commissioner to Uganda.
"India's journey from development to becoming a global economic force with a 3.57 trillion-dollar GDP holds valuable lessons for Uganda," said H.E Upender Singh Rawat, Indian High Commissioner to Uganda. "We, as partners in South-South cooperation, are committed to sharing these experiences, particularly in crucial areas like digital innovation, inclusive development, and renewable energy. Together, by heeding the report's call to action, we can build a more prosperous and equitable future for all."
Professor Barnabas Nawangwe delivering a speech during the HDR Launch.
Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, expressed gratitude to UNDP for its continued partnership. He emphasized the report's value as a tool for measuring Uganda's progress compared to other countries.
Dr. Thangavel Palanivel, UNDP Senior Economic Advisor.
Key Findings of Human Development Report
The 2023/24 Human Development Report presents a mixed picture for Uganda. Dr. Thangavel Palanivel, UNDP Senior Economic Advisor shared key findings and the Ugandan context during his presentation:
The report highlights a concerning trend: a "global gridlock" caused by rising polarization and a lack of cooperation on shared challenges. Dr. Thangavel Palanivel emphasized the need for stronger global institutions and innovative financing mechanisms to address pressing issues like climate change and pandemics.
Positive news came for Uganda, which moved from the "low human development" category to the "medium human development" category in the HDR rankings. This signifies significant progress in areas like life expectancy, education, and national income.
Despite the advancement, Uganda's Human Development Index (HDI) score still falls below the global average. Inequality remains a significant hurdle, with a 31.5% loss in HDI due to this factor. Additionally, gender inequality persists, with women facing lower HDI scores compared to men.
One bright spot is Uganda's Planetary Pressures Adjusted HDI. This index suggests the country exerts less pressure on the environment compared to the global average.
The HDR calls for reimagined international cooperation, which Uganda has already begun to prioritize. Having been elected Chair of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and Group of 77 (G77), this global leadership responsibility reflects the international community’s recognition of Uganda’s commitment to reimagine international cooperation architecture and shape the future of sustainable human development.
Read the 2023/24 Human Development Report: report.hdr.undp.org