– Advertisement –
Scholars gathered at Makerere University to delve into the four-decade journey of neoliberal transformation in Uganda, exploring the pivotal role of universities as agents and the profound changes this process has ushered in.
The conference titled “Uganda’s Neoliberalism at 40: Taking Stock of the Operation of an Exemplary Market Society in East Africa” convened on January 18th to 19th, 2024. Organized collaboratively by Makerere University, the International University of Rabat in Morocco, and the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom, the event was led by Dr. Giuliano Martiniello, Dr. Sarah Ssali, Dr. Jörg Wiegratz, Dr. Rose Nakayi, and Professor Godfrey Asiimwe. These scholars had previously collaborated on the edited collection ‘Uganda: The Dynamics of Neoliberal Transformation’, published in 2018.
The conference aimed to address critical questions surrounding Uganda’s neoliberal trajectory, particularly focusing on its political economy, societal dynamics, and cultural shifts since 2018. Scholars and participants from various countries, including Uganda, the UK, Italy, Germany, Czech Republic, France, Colombia, Egypt, South Africa, Denmark, Morocco, Canada, and the USA, contributed insights across disciplines, ranging from academia to civil society, journalism, grassroots activism, and citizen research.
The keynote address, delivered by Professor Yash Tandon, contextualized the conference within Uganda’s historical narrative and underscored the imperialist origins of neoliberal policies shaping the country’s contemporary landscape. Notable interventions were made by Professor John Jean Barya, Dr. Martiniello, and the public intellectual Kalundi Serumaga.
– Advertisement –
Throughout the conference, papers were presented under thematic panels covering labor, agriculture, environmental change, energy transition, socio-cultural dynamics, education, social policy, statecraft, elections, and political agency. Discussions highlighted the multifaceted impacts of neoliberal policies across various sectors, sparking debates on potential alternatives to Uganda’s ongoing neoliberalization.
Key commentators, including Dr. Yusuf Serunkuma and journalist Agatha Atuhaire, reflected on the everyday realities and deeper political dimensions of neoliberalism in Uganda. Dr. Winnie Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS, emphasized the importance of activism in challenging global and local neoliberalism, echoing the overarching question: “What should we do?”
The conference also identified critical gaps in existing scholarship, emphasizing the need for comprehensive analyses of Uganda’s neoliberal transformation. Issues such as the political economy of neoliberal restructuring, the sociology of hegemonic movements, and the ecological ramifications of extractivism were highlighted as areas warranting further investigation.
Moreover, the conference underscored the evolving role of universities as catalysts for societal change. Rather than remaining aloof in ivory towers, modern universities are actively engaging in policy debates and collaborative projects aimed at fostering positive change.
Looking ahead, the papers presented at the conference are poised to undergo further development and peer review, contributing to informed policymaking and research agendas. The organizers anticipate future conferences on contemporary capitalism in Uganda, building upon the momentum generated by this landmark event.
Supported by the POLIS Strategic Investment Fund (SRIF) 2023/24 from the University of Leeds, the conference facilitated the participation of citizen researchers from northern Uganda, ensuring diverse perspectives and inclusive dialogue.
Related
– Advertisement –
