President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on public administrators to collaborate with reformers and political leaders who diagnose societal issues rooted in philosophy and ideology. He emphasized that such partnerships are crucial for achieving effective and sustainable administration.
Speaking at the opening of the 43rd African Association of Public Administration and Management (AAPAM) Round Table Conference in Kampala, President Museveni highlighted the need for administrators to operate within a framework that supports socio-economic transformation rather than perpetuating neo-colonial systems.
“As you discuss administrative techniques, the question remains: what are you administering? Neo-colonialism or socio-economic transformation? The context must align with socio-economic progress,” he stated.
The conference, running from November 26–29, 2024, brings together over 1,000 delegates from across Africa to discuss strategies for building resilient public administration systems. Themed “Agile and Resilient Public Administration Framework for Sustainable Development in Africa,” the event is Uganda’s third time hosting, following the 1998 and 2018 editions.
Addressing Historical Challenges
President Museveni reflected on Uganda’s past, noting that when the National Resistance Movement (NRM) assumed power in 1986, public administration was steeped in neo-colonial practices. This hindered political and economic development.
“In 1962, only 9% of households were engaged in the money economy, while 91% were excluded. Our diagnosis as young leaders in the 1960s was that Africa needed to transition from colonial and neo-colonial frameworks to socio-economic transformation,” he said.
He cited the NRM’s 10-point program, particularly its focus on building an independent, integrated, and self-sustaining economy. This strategy emphasized commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT as the pillars of economic development.
Caution Against Politics of Identity
The President warned against divisive politics based on tribe, religion, or gender, which he described as ideologically bankrupt and detrimental to Africa’s progress.
“Wars stem from ideological bankruptcy. Leaders who push identity politics misdiagnose societal challenges, leading to division and instability. Such politics is self-destructive,” he cautioned.
He advocated for political and economic integration as essential for Africa’s transformation, urging leaders to prioritize collective progress over narrow interests.
Recognizing Progress and Challenges
The Minister for the Presidency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, praised President Museveni for his commitment to public administration excellence and lauded Uganda’s strides in governance reforms, public financial management, and citizen participation. However, she acknowledged challenges such as climate change, conflict, and economic instability that continue to affect the continent.
“We must leverage technology and innovation to drive sustainable development while addressing pressing issues like climate change and conflict,” she said.
Strengthening Collaboration Across Africa
AAPAM President Dr. John Nakabago expressed gratitude to Uganda for its financial and logistical support in hosting the conference. He praised Uganda’s policies under President Museveni’s leadership for fostering peace and unity in the region.
“Uganda is a net exporter of peace and a pioneer in refugee hosting, with 1.8 million refugees. These policies inspire us at AAPAM,” Dr. Nakabago said.
He also announced plans to recognize institutions and individuals that have excelled in public administration and service delivery.
A Platform for Action
Ms. Lucy Nakyobe, Head of Public Service and AAPAM-Uganda Chapter President, underscored the importance of adapting public administration to tackle modern challenges.
“This conference provides a platform for Pan-African collaboration. We expect transformative actions to emerge from these deliberations,” she noted.
The conference also drew several Ugandan ministers, visiting dignitaries, and senior government officials, further demonstrating Uganda’s commitment to fostering public administration excellence in Africa.
