By: Jotham Alinaitwe
KAMPALA
Uganda’s Engineering Community gathered in grand style at Hotel African in Kampala on March 4, 2025, to celebrate World Engineering Day 2025 under the theme “Shaping Our Sustainable Future Through Engineering.” The event brought together Engineers from Uganda and neighboring countries like Tanzania, Burundi, and Kenya, highlighting the pivotal role Engineers play in the development of the nation.
Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja (left) being welcomed by Hon. Musa Ecweru (centre) the State Minister for Works during the world Engineering Day at Hotel African
In her keynote address, Uganda’s Prime Minister underscored the significant contributions of engineers, praising their work in developing infrastructure that powers Uganda’s economy. She called on the Engineering fraternity to maintain high standards of professionalism and credibility, particularly as Uganda moves forward with its ambitious development agenda.
The ceremony was marked by speeches from prominent figures, including Prof. Eng. Henry Alinaitwe, Chairman of the Engineers Registration Board, who took the opportunity to appreciate the Prime Minister and Hon. Musa Ecweru, the State Minister for Works, for their unwavering support of the Engineering profession. Prof. Alinaitwe highlighted the accomplishments of Uganda’s engineers, from the Kampala-Entebbe Expressway to groundbreaking projects like Rural Electrification, Telecommunications advancements, and the Kiira Motors Vehicle Manufacturing Plant.
Prime Minsiter addressing the delegates during the World Engineering Day at Hotel Africana
“Engineers are the backbone of every great nation,” Prof. Alinaitwe said, urging both the government and society to recognize and elevate the contributions Engineers make to the country’s growth.
The Prime Minister followed up with a powerful message, reaffirming the government’s commitment to advancing Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) as drivers of Uganda’s industrialization and socio-economic transformation. She outlined the objectives of the National Development Programme IV (NDPIV), which emphasizes the importance of creating a generation of well-equipped engineers and scientists to lead the country’s future.
“Your expertise and skills in designing, constructing, maintaining, and operating infrastructure are key to improving the lives of Ugandans,” the Prime Minister stated, adding that the government is committed to supporting the engineering profession through various legislative reforms. She specifically highlighted the Engineering Professionals Bill, 2024, which aims to formalize and regulate the engineering sector, increase professional registration, and enhance continuous professional development.
The Engineer Organization Committee led by Eng. Prof. Alinaitwe Henry (extreme right) awarding the Prime Minister Nabbanja (2nd left) with the award of excellence
While acknowledging the tremendous strides made by Uganda’s Engineers, the Prime Minister also addressed the challenges facing the sector. She pointed out issues such as shoddy work, project delays, and inflated costs that have, at times, undermined the integrity of engineering projects. “These challenges affect the country’s sustainable development,” she noted, urging engineers to take proactive measures to address these concerns.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of Engineers’ participation in key national projects, including the Karuma Hydro Power Project and Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project, and called on them to remain committed to excellence in the face of these challenges.
She also expressed optimism about the future of engineering in Uganda, citing the 10-Fold Growth Strategy and the Parish Development Model as significant opportunities for engineers to contribute their expertise. She encouraged engineers to engage with these programs to ensure they deliver professional solutions that will drive Uganda’s progress.
Prime Minister listening the the presentation during the event
The Prime Minister concluded her address by emphasizing that the future of Uganda is promising, with new projects and better remuneration for engineers on the horizon. “The government remains committed to providing you with the support you need to thrive,” she said, officially declaring the World Engineering Day 2025 celebrations open.
The Engineering fraternity was reminded of the key role they play in shaping Uganda’s sustainable future. The Prime Minister’s address, along with remarks from other leaders, reinforced the importance of collaboration between the government, the Engineering profession, and the public to tackle the challenges ahead. The Prime Minister’s unwavering support for the Engineering community was clear: “Together, we can shape a sustainable future for Uganda through engineering.”
The World Engineering Day 2025 celebrations not only marked a moment of recognition for Engineers but also set the stage for the future, urging all engineers to continue innovating and striving for excellence as Uganda moves toward a brighter, more sustainable future.
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