In a time of growing economic strain, Uganda today hosted a high-level Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue under the theme "Strengthening Accountability for Improved Domestic Revenue Mobilisation Towards a Just & Inclusive Society.

The meeting brought together key voices from government, civil society, and international partners to address urgent challenges and untapped opportunities in mobilising and managing Uganda’s domestic revenues.

Uganda’s revenue system is under pressure. With declining Official Development Assistance, rising debt servicing costs, and climate financing needs estimated at over USD 28 billion, domestic revenue mobilisation is no longer just an option; it's a necessity.

Speaking at the dialogue, Ms. Jane Nalunga, Executive Director of SEATINI Uganda, highlighted the country's low tax-to-GDP ratio, currently at 12%, which falls short of the national target of 16–18%. She also pointed to missed opportunities in critical sectors like oil and minerals, as well as the global clean energy shift, which could become new avenues for revenue if properly harnessed.

Yet, experts caution that structural gaps remain. Mr. Magara Siraji Luyima, Extractives Coordinator at Oxfam Uganda, raised concerns over revenue leakage and the heavy centralisation of royalties, where 94% is retained by the central government, leaving only 6% for local governments. He also flagged limited capacity at the local level to manage sudden influxes of revenue, which can undermine equitable distribution.

Uganda’s mineral wealth, such as an estimated 31 million metric tons of gold worth approximately USD 12 trillion, remains largely untapped.

However, Luyima warned that poor governance and exploitative practices could squander these potential gains.

From Parliament, Hon. Lokwang Philips Ilukol, MP for Napore West County, emphasized the need for a clear and accountable mode of revenue collection. He criticized the misallocation of domestic funds meant for public service delivery, stating that misuse by some legislators is undermining citizen trust and national development.

Participants at the dialogue also raised concerns about inclusivity, stressing that marginalised groups, particularly women, are often left out of planning and benefit-sharing frameworks tied to revenue mobilization.

The dialogue concluded with calls for robust reforms, improved accountability, and inclusive revenue strategies to ensure Uganda’s resources truly serve its people.