By: Alinaitwe Jotham
KAMPALA
Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja has officially launched the preparatory activities for the 11th Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD-11). The forum, set to take place in Uganda in April 2025, will convene key stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Yesterday’s launch event at the Office of the Prime Minister was graced by a diverse audience, including Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State, executives from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and representatives from various sectors. The atmosphere was one of anticipation and enthusiasm for Uganda’s role as the host nation.
Rt. Hon. PM Robinah Nabbanja (3rd right) addressing delegates ahead of the launch of the preparatory activities for the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development in Kampala
In her opening address, Prime Minister Nabbanja highlighted Uganda’s significant strides towards Sustainable Development, referencing the country’s third Voluntary National Review (VNR) and its ongoing commitment to the SDGs. “Today marks a pivotal moment in Uganda’s pursuit of sustainable development,” said Nabbanja. “Our progress, documented in our VNR reports and annual reviews, underscores our dedication to the SDGs. We have integrated these goals into our National Development Plans and significantly improved our data and financing mechanisms.”
The Premier outlined Uganda’s achievements, including the development of a National SDG Coordination Framework and the integration of SDGs into the Third National Development Plan (NDP III), with an ambitious target for the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV). She also highlighted Uganda’s progress in increasing SDG indicators from 41 in 2016 to 127 in 2024.
Susan Namondo, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, also addressed the gathering, expressing her enthusiasm for Uganda’s leadership in hosting the forum. “Uganda has shown exceptional commitment and progress in implementing the SDGs. The upcoming ARFSD-11 will be a testament to your efforts and will provide a platform to further the SDGs agenda across Africa,” Namondo said. She emphasized the importance of collaboration and engagement from all stakeholders to ensure the forum’s success.
While addressing the public, Antonio M.A. Pedro, the Deputy Executive Secretary of UNECA, assured Uganda of full backing for the ARFSD-11 preparations. Mr. Pedro, who recently visited various facilities meant to host the event, praised the quality of the infrastructure and the readiness of Uganda. “I am impressed by the facilities and the dedication of the Ugandan team. You have our commitment to support you in every step of the preparation process,” Pedro stated. “I will report back positively on the progress and preparedness I’ve witnessed here.”
The forum is expected to attract over 2,500 delegates, including Heads of State, Ministers, UN Officials, experts, and representatives from civil society. Rt. Hon. Nabbanja stressed the forum’s potential to drive socio-economic transformation and showcase Uganda’s achievements in job creation, tourism, and international cooperation.
“We aim for ARFSD-11 to set a new benchmark for the execution of such critical events on the African continent,” Nabbanja added. She announced that there will be formation of both a Political Committee and National Organizing Committee to oversee preparations, ensuring alignment with national and continental priorities.
As the preparatory activities officially commence, Uganda is positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable development in Africa. The ARFSD-11 promises to be a transformative event, reflecting the continent’s collective commitment to advancing the SDGs and addressing key challenges and opportunities.
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