Uganda needs an economy that works for all [EDITOR'S OPINION]

This story though does not rime well today with majority of Ugandans who feel they have been let down by the Museveni led Government.

The country has made really small economic strides with a few today living a better life compared to a decade or two ago.

As Uganda’s economy contracts year in and out, the cost of living is going up, thus affecting people’s living standards.  

Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development’s Poverty Status Report 2021 indicates that 8.31 million people (about 18.5%) of the total population still live in abject poverty. This is a better standing compared to 1993 when about 56% of the entire population where living below the poverty line.

One would expect these eight million people to be the most dissatisfied. Yes, to a large extent, they are, but they are not the noisiest.

The strongest voice against Government of Uganda’s unbalanced growth mostly comes from the semi-elites and elites. 

These are people considered to be earning an income of at least sh3.8m a year.

The voice of the eight million people almost goes unheard as the elites and semi-elites dominate prime time tv and radio, write newspaper columns and actively participate in demonstrations against violation of human rights, what they consider poor pay and Government programmes/policies they say are limiting to their earning.

One of their frustrations includes an economy that has only worked for a small club of people.

As the country ages with Museveni at the helm, the income inequality gap grows bigger.

Those with political connections can easily make a phone call or two to seal that business deal, get that seven-figure job, and have their loved ones flown abroad for specialised treatment.

According to the World Bank, Uganda has seen 'growth with exclusion', where relatively few have benefited from economic gains. 

The richest 10% of the population enjoy 35.7% of national income; while the poorest 10% claim a meagre 2.5% and the poorest 20 percent have only 5.8%.

Uganda would a need an economy that works for all if the country is to maintain peace and security, which have been Museveni’s achievements over the years.