UGANDA 1986-2026: THINK, COMPARE, JUDGE FAIRLY
From National Breakdown to Reconstruction, Stability and Opportunity
By Col Dr John Francis Ongia (Rtd)
1986 – A Nation in Distress, but Still Our Home
2026 – More Opportunity, a Brighter Tomorrow.
Independent judgement requires us to examine where Uganda started, recognise what has changed, acknowledge what remains unfinished, and protect the gains already made.
1986: THE STARTING POINT | 2026: THE JOURNEY SO FAR
1. Security
1986: Armed conflict and widespread insecurity.
2026: Relative peace and national stability across much of Uganda.
2. Institutions
1986: Weakened public institutions.
2026: Functional constitutional, administrative and security institutions.
3. Economy
1986: A distressed economy and damaged productive capacity.
2026: A larger and more diversified economy.
4. Infrastructure and Services:
1986: Limited infrastructure and public services.
2026: Expanded roads, electricity, education, health and communications.
5. Citizen and State
1986: Deep mistrust between citizens and the State.
2026: Greater space for enterprise, investment and national planning.
6. Future Outlook
1986: An uncertain national future.
2026: A stronger foundation for transformation.
WHAT MADE THE JOURNEY POSSIBLE:
Political leadership, national sacrifice, security, constitutional order, institutional rebuilding, public investment and the resilience of the Ugandan people.
THE NRM CONTRIBUTION
The NRM Government deserves historical credit for leading Uganda from institutional breakdown toward peace, reconstruction and development. These gains were built over time through leadership, sacrifice and national effort.
PROGRESS DOES NOT MEAN PERFECTION
Unfinished work remains – corruption, youth unemployment, service quality, household poverty, inequality, institutional coordination, value addition and accountable leadership.
OUR NEXT RESPONSIBILITY
Protect the peace. Strengthen institutions. Correct weaknesses. Industrialise production. Create jobs. Build household wealth. Prepare Uganda for the next generation.
THE FAIR NATIONAL VERDICT
Uganda is not where it was in 1986. Uganda is not yet where it must be. Our duty is to appreciate the journey, defend the gains and accelerate the unfinished transformation.
From Survival to Opportunity: Peace, People, Progress – A Shared Tomorrow
The writer is Col Dr John Francis Ongia (Rtd) – NRA/UPDF/NRM Government, a witness to Uganda’s journey.
About the Author
