President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged public servants to champion Uganda’s modern economic transformation by embracing key principles such as commercialized agriculture, industrialization, and information and communication technology (ICT).
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja during the Africa Public Service Day (APSD) 2025 celebrations, Museveni emphasized the vital role of public servants in steering Uganda’s transformation into a modern, industrialized, and unified economy.
Museveni noted that since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) took power, the government has led efforts to transform Uganda from a poor, peasant-based society into a modern, industrialized, and unified economy.
“By 1986, all the pillars of government had collapsed – there was no effective service delivery and no national army capable of defending the interests of Ugandans,” the President stated in his message.
Museveni highlighted the progress made in eliminating sectarian interests based on religion and tribe and promoting inclusive and national unity.
The President also emphasized the critical role of security agencies in enabling effective service delivery, noting that peace and security are fundamental pillars for national development and the smooth functioning of public services.
According to the Ministry of Public Service, Africa Public Service Day (APSD) 2025 is commemorated to recognize the essential role public servants play in delivering government services, promoting development, and upholding good governance across the African continent and globally.
Minister of Public Service Hon. Mary Mugasa highlighted that Africa Public Service Day (APSD) is a flagship initiative of the African Union, celebrated biennially across member states.
She noted that it provides a vital platform for governments to showcase innovations in public service, celebrate key achievements, and address emerging challenges in governance and service delivery.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, the event’s chief guest, urged public servants to actively combat corruption.
“This is a moment for both reflection and celebration,” she said. “Let us recommit ourselves to integrity, efficiency, and patriotism in our service to the nation.”
The celebration has united government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) under the theme of transformation.
For the Uganda Prisons Service (UPS), it is not just a time to reflect but also an opportunity to celebrate achievements, share success stories, and showcase how public service can inspire dignity, productivity, and hope even within correctional facilities.
