H.E Hon. Barbara Nekesa Lumolo: A Recognized Uganda Development Champion Driving Vision 2040

*By John Kusolo*

H.E. Hon. Barbara Nekesa Lumolo, the National Treasurer of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has been recognized by Public Opinions as one of the 74 Uganda Development Champions for her outstanding contribution to achieving Uganda Vision 2040 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This recognition underscores her exceptional leadership and commitment to Uganda's transformation agenda.

Uganda Vision 2040, launched in 2007 under the leadership of H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, aims to transition Uganda from a predominantly peasant, low-income country into a competitive upper-middle-income nation within 30 years. It focuses on strengthening economic fundamentals and leveraging abundant opportunities in sectors like oil and gas, ICT, tourism, agriculture, and minerals. By 2040, Uganda aspires to achieve a per capita income of USD 9,500, with middle-income status anticipated earlier by 2017.

As National Treasurer of the NRM, Hon. Barbara Nekesa Lumolo plays a pivotal role in steering the financial strategy of the party to align with Vision 2040. She ensures resources are mobilized and directed towards policies and programs that promote socioeconomic development, industrialization, and inclusive growth. Her efforts contribute to the broader objectives of peace, stability, and prosperity outlined in the NRM’s mission.

Public Opinions, a field-based organization committed to Uganda’s development goals, conducted a comprehensive six-month survey to identify leaders championing Vision 2040 and the SDGs. Hon. Nekesa’s recognition stems from her unwavering dedication to promoting leadership, public awareness, and economic transformation.

Public Opinions supports Uganda Vision 2040 through initiatives like leadership training, strategic engagements, information dissemination, and investment advisory. Hon. Nekesa’s inclusion in the elite list of Development Champions highlights her significant impact in these areas.

*Hon. Barbara Nekesa’s Contributions*

*Resource Mobilization for Development:*

As NRM National Treasurer, Hon. Nekesa has been instrumental in ensuring financial accountability and sustainability within the party. This financial stewardship enables the implementation of development programs that align with Vision 2040’s goals, such as industrialization and poverty eradication.

*Championing Inclusivity:*

Hon. Nekesa reflects the NRM’s commitment to inclusive governance, ensuring that women and youth are actively engaged in Uganda’s socioeconomic transformation. Her advocacy for equal opportunities exemplifies her dedication to the SDG principle of "leaving no one behind."

*Leadership Development:*

Through her work, Hon. Nekesa has inspired new generations of leaders, particularly women, to participate in Uganda’s development. Her leadership embodies the values of Vision 2040: integrity, innovation, and progress.

*Promoting Public Awareness:*

Hon. Nekesa has championed public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on Vision 2040 and the SDGs. By emphasizing the role of individual and collective action, she encourages Ugandans to actively participate in national development efforts.

*Fostering Investment:*

Hon. Nekesa has worked to attract investment in key sectors like agriculture, ICT, and energy, helping to unlock Uganda’s potential and create employment opportunities.

Uganda’s Progress on SDGs

Uganda ranks 18th among 52 African countries in SDG implementation, with an overall score of 54.88. This progress, while significant, highlights the need for sustained leadership and innovation. Hon. Nekesa’s recognition as a Development Champion signals her key role in advancing Uganda’s SDG agenda through financial planning, advocacy, and investment.

*Hon. Barbara Nekesa: A Pillar of NRM’s Vision*

The NRM, led by President Museveni, envisions a peaceful, united, and industrialized Uganda within a strong and united Africa. Hon. Nekesa’s work as National Treasurer aligns seamlessly with this vision. Her commitment to financial integrity and sustainable growth ensures that the NRM remains a broad-based, inclusive, and progressive organization capable of transforming Uganda.

Hon. Barbara Nekesa Lumolo’s recognition as one of the 74 Uganda Development Champions by Public Opinions underscores her vital contributions to Uganda Vision 2040 and the SDGs. Through her leadership, resource mobilization, and advocacy, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to Uganda’s transformation.

As the nation works toward achieving middle-income status and long-term prosperity, leaders like Hon. Nekesa are essential in driving the vision forward. Her recognition is not only a testament to her achievements but also an inspiration for others to contribute to Uganda’s journey toward peace, unity, and industrialization.