Revitalising Uganda's economy: The Economic Growth Forum (audio)

The Economic Growth Forum, or EGF,  was founded on the idea that transformational change requires bridging the gap between Uganda’s researchers and the policymakers shaping national decisions. Facing ongoing economic challenges, the government sought to make economic planning more evidence-based and effective. To help bridge this gap, the International Growth Centre (or IGC) partnered with the Ugandan finance ministry to launch the Forum in 2017.

Since then, the Forum, supported by the IGC, has become Uganda’s leading platform for bringing together government, researchers, civil society, international partners, and the private sector. It provides a space to share evidence, reflect on growth trends, and co-create practical solutions to Uganda’s most pressing economic challenges.

Over nine editions, the Forum has hosted more than 70 distinguished academics and policymakers, with over 110 presentations on key growth topics. The EGF has helped shape major reforms and budget debates, generating more than 30 recommendations that have fed into policy or practice. Evidence presented at the Forum has also influenced many strategic decisions, in areas as varied as taxation, tourism and agriculture.

By convening diverse voices, the EGF ensures that decision-making is grounded in cutting-edge evidence and builds consensus on strategies to drive inclusive and sustainable growth. Local researchers now work directly with senior officials, climate change is being integrated into national strategies, and government plans are increasingly evidence-based, helping build a more resilient and inclusive economy for the future.