The national launch of the HDR was held at Kyambogo University in Kampala on 15 May 2025.

Now in its 35th year, the HDR remains a vital global tool for shaping discourse around development—focusing not just on economic growth, but on people's lives, choices, and capabilities.

Speaking on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Leonard Zulu, UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor, underscored the Human Development Approach as one that prioritizes . She highlighted that “ that can either or , depending on the choices societies make”.

UNDP Uganda Chief, Strategy and Policy Unit, Dr. Thangavel Palanivel echoed this, calling for a bold shift from economic output to human-centered development.

Uganda has made commendable progress:

Innovative local solutions were also celebrated:

Yet, challenges remain. Uganda’s HDI (0.582) is higher than the Sub-Saharan African average (0.568), but still lags behind the global average (0.756). , , and continue to hinder inclusive development.

Minister for Science Technology and Innovation Monica Musenero declared: “We are witnessing the first industrial revolution that Uganda is actively part of, this is out revolution!”

Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, she emphasized the urgent need to transition from a traditional to a digital economy calling for

With AI becoming mainstream, the report aligns with the UN’s , urging:

Uganda must invest in digital literacy, inclusive policy, and skills development, especially for women and rural communities.

Call to action

“We must unite—government, academia, private sector, and civil society—around this vision,” concluded Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator. “Let us harness AI for good and create a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Uganda.”