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Professor Jeffrey Sachs, renowned economist and leader in sustainable development, expressed confidence in Africa’s economic potential and the success of Uganda’s Parish Development Model (PDM) during a recent high-level policy dialogue. The event, organized by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), National Planning Authority, and Makerere University, gathered key stakeholders to discuss accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovative financing, the PDM, and science and technology.
During his keynote address at the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, on February 28, 2024, Professor Sachs highlighted the importance of uniting Africa into a single economic bloc to spur global economic growth. Drawing parallels with the success stories of China and India, he emphasized the need for setting targets and implementing strategic instruments to achieve development goals effectively.
Sustainable development, as defined by Professor Sachs, encompasses four main objectives: material wellbeing for all, social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and peace and cooperation. He proposed adopting Nobel laureate Jan Tinbergen’s concept of “targets and instruments” to attain these goals, stressing the significance of investing in various forms of capital such as education, infrastructure, and technology.
In discussing Uganda’s PDM, Professor Sachs commended the government’s efforts but urged for further enhancements in financing mechanisms and project monitoring. He emphasized the importance of flexible and low-interest financing with long-term maturity, especially for sectors like education, to support sustainable growth.
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The dialogue also featured insights from other prominent figures, including Chancellor Emeritus Professor Ezra Suruma, who called for robust monitoring of PDM funds to ensure effective utilization and long-term investment. Minister for Local Government Honorable Raphael Magyezi provided reassurance regarding the government’s digitalized payment system and monitoring mechanisms to minimize leakages in PDM implementation.
Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja emphasized PDM as a pivotal strategy for advancing SDGs, alongside leveraging innovative financing mechanisms and prioritizing science, technology, and innovation. She underscored the importance of research and collaboration with institutions like Columbia University to enhance program effectiveness and efficiency.
UNDP Resident Representative H.E. Nwanneakolam Vwede-Obahor highlighted the urgent need for alternative financing sources to bridge Uganda’s development financing gap, stressing the importance of aligning budget allocations with SDG priorities and exploring public-private partnerships.
The event also showcased Makerere University’s commitment to SDG implementation, with Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe highlighting the university’s role in hosting the dialogue and driving innovation through initiatives like the PDM Policy Lab and the Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Health (CESH).
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