Heads of government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), together with private sector leaders, have assured Ugandans and investors that business operations and public services will continue uninterrupted during this week’s elections. They called for calm, responsible conduct by citizens and professional journalism.
Speaking at a media briefing held at the State House Investors’ Protection Unit (SHIPU) offices in Nakasero, the leaders said all indicators point to a peaceful electoral process, with Ugandans expected to vote and return to normal business activities within hours.
Colonel Edith Nakalema, the Head of SHIPU, who hosted the engagement, said the assurances followed commitments already made by security chiefs and urged Ugandans to have confidence in the country’s electoral and security systems.
“I wear two hats today—as a security officer and as a person deployed to protect the interests of investors by virtue of this office. Protecting investors and their interests is essential to protecting the interests of Uganda, because all Ugandans benefit when our investment climate is not disrupted,” Col. Nakalema said.
She reiterated calls by security leaders for citizens to remain calm, orderly and law-abiding as they head to the polls on January 15.
“We should do everything with the protection of our beloved country in mind. This means all Ugandans should take responsibility for how they conduct themselves as they go to vote and then return to their normal duties. The government departments and agencies represented here assure you that they will continue to operate normally so that lives are not disrupted during this electoral process,” she added.
Dr. Barirega Akankwasah, Executive Director of the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) and Dean of Government Agencies, called on voters to maintain peace and mutual respect, warning against acts that could endanger lives, property and the environment.
“Our unity as a nation is far greater than any single contest or outcome. Peace and stability are the foundation upon which livelihoods, public services, investment and national development depend,” Dr. Akankwasah said.
He warned against environmentally destructive acts such as burning tyres, noting that such actions carry serious penalties, including up to 15 years’ imprisonment under Section 163 of the National Environment Act, Cap 181.
“Elections come every five years, but our social and economic life must continue. Let us choose dialogue and unity over division,” he added.
The role of the media during the election period also took centre stage. Simon Kaheru, Chair of the East African Business Council (EABC) Uganda Chapter, urged journalists to uphold professionalism and accuracy.
“You—the media—should be at your most professional during this period of heightened tension. Rely on facts, use credible sources, question misinformation and avoid sensationalism. Provide full stories with the right context so that the public is accurately informed,” Kaheru said.
He added that both local and foreign investors rely heavily on media reports when making decisions, urging journalists to filter out fake news and information that could incite violence or compromise security.
Media and public policy analyst Alan Kasujja echoed the call, encouraging journalists to present Uganda’s reality beyond social media narratives.
“The world will be watching what is happening here largely through your reporting. Do your job professionally and credibly so that Uganda is seen for what it truly is,” Kasujja said.
On the economic front, the manufacturing sector assured the public of continued production throughout the election period. Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) Executive Director Dr. Ezra Muhumuza Rubanda said factories would remain operational to avoid shortages and protect livelihoods.
“We shall ensure there is no scarcity and that prices remain stable. Industries must not be disrupted, especially those producing for export, because international contracts do not take into account our internal electoral processes,” Dr. Rubanda said.
He emphasized that manufacturers were committed to safeguarding economic growth and the livelihoods of millions of Ugandans across various value chains.
Health services will also continue uninterrupted, according to Mulago National Referral Hospital Executive Director Dr. Rosemary Byanyima.
“Our staff will operate in shifts as usual and will be facilitated to vote without disrupting the health services we provide,” Dr. Byanyima said.
The tourism sector similarly expressed confidence. Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) Chief Executive Officer Juliana Kagwa said the country remains fully open to visitors, with adequate security measures in place.
“Tourism activities are proceeding normally across national parks, wildlife reserves, cultural sites, cities and hospitality establishments. Visitors should proceed with their travel plans without worry—Uganda should be enjoyed,” Kagwa said.
Edward Katende, Executive Director of the Uganda Development Forum (UDF), urged the media to view itself as part of the national development team.
“Uganda has enjoyed over 40 years of macroeconomic stability and is on track to become a US$500 billion economy by 2040. We cannot afford to go backwards,” Katende said.
He called for responsible conduct by all stakeholders, emphasizing that elections come and go, but development must continue.
National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Vice Chairperson Ben Mwine urged broadcasters to remain factual and adhere to regulatory guidelines.
“We have a responsibility to report accurately and positively about Uganda, focusing on solutions and progress as a country,” Mwine said.
Representing Special Interest Groups, Osborn Turyasingura said the groups were keen on safeguarding gains achieved over the years, including representation from village to national leadership levels and inclusion in government programmes.
“We believe the environment is safe for all Ugandans to vote. As a Secretariat, we are mobilizing all Special Interest Groups to participate massively in these elections,” Turyasingura said.
