Author(s)
Assoc. Prof. Mark Kiiza
- ISSN (P): 3139-8464
- Manuscript ID: 140607
- Volume: 2
- Issue: 8
- Pages: 76–90
Subject Area: Management
Abstract
This article evaluates Uganda’s political governance paradigm and economic transformation under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) regime since 1986. It examines the relationship between political stability, governance reforms, and socio-economic development, assessing the extent to which the NRM’s policy framework has shaped Uganda’s development trajectory. The study adopted a singular mixed methodology that enabled collection of the qualitative analysis of policy documents, government reports. The study used interviews, survey, focused group discussion methods that enabled the study explores developments in governance, agricultural modernization, infrastructure expansion, and economic growth. The findings suggest that the NRM regime has played a significant role in restoring political stability and facilitating economic recovery following decades of political turmoil and economic decline. Notable achievements include increased agricultural productivity, expansion of infrastructure, growth in export earnings, improvements in service delivery, and enhanced regional economic integration. The transformation of the dairy sector, alongside broader agricultural and private-sector development, illustrates the impact of state-led development initiatives on economic performance. However, the study also identifies enduring challenges, including corruption, youth unemployment, regional inequalities, public debt, and concerns regarding democratic accountability, political pluralism, and institutional effectiveness. The article argues that Uganda’s experience demonstrates the centrality of political stability in fostering economic transformation, while also highlighting the limitations of development gains in the absence of stronger governance institutions and inclusive political processes. By providing a balanced assessment of Uganda’s post-1986 development experience, the study contributes to broader debates on governance, state capacity, and economic transformation in Uganda and entire contemporary Africa.