The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | At the National Convention 2025 at Mestil Hotel on October 30, civil society organizations (CSOs) in Uganda have been called upon to embrace digital advocacy as a vital tool for enhancing their reach, impact, and accountability. The convention, themed “The Future of Civil Society in Uganda – The Law, the Money, the Politics,” brought together government officials, diplomats, and CSO leaders to discuss strategies for sustaining civil society operations amid evolving technological and funding landscapes.
Kahinda Otafiire, Uganda’s Minister of Internal Affairs, emphasized the importance of collaboration between government and civil society. “We are here as partners today,” he said, noting that CSOs play a crucial role in supporting the government to deliver health and education services, while serving as the voice of citizens. He called for a working environment that encourages honesty, transparency, and accountability, while warning that regulation must not stifle innovative initiatives.
Otafiire highlighted the challenges facing CSOs, particularly in light of reduced foreign funding, urging organizations to explore sustainable financing models and partnerships. “CSOs are the bridge between government and the citizen,” he said. “Our duty as government is to listen and work with you to benefit our country.”
Speakers at the convention emphasized the transformative potential of digital tools in advocacy. European Union Ambassador Jan Sadek noted that artificial intelligence and other technologies could streamline CSO operations, automating routine tasks and allowing teams to focus on strategic impact. German Ambassador Matthias Schauer echoed this sentiment, acknowledging operational challenges tied to government trust and urging resilience and strengthened engagement.
Keynote speaker Joseph Muvawala, Executive Director of the National Planning Authority, underscored the critical role of civil society in promoting accountability, transparency, and citizen participation. “If you close the CSOs in Uganda today, 40% of service delivery will collapse,” he warned, emphasizing that government cannot deliver effectively without civil society’s active involvement.
The convention highlighted the need for investment in digital literacy, inclusive infrastructure, and innovation, framing the shift toward digital advocacy not merely as a trend, but as an essential evolution for Uganda’s civil society. As technology increasingly reshapes governance and citizen engagement, both government and CSOs were urged to strengthen partnerships, embrace innovation, and ensure that the voices of all Ugandans are heard.
