President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is today expected to deliver the State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, outlining the government’s achievements, challenges, and priorities for the year ahead. The address, scheduled for 2:00 p.m., will officially open the first session of Uganda’s 12th Parliament and mark President Museveni’s first State of the Nation Address since his re-election in the January 2026 general elections.
This year’s ceremony will be attended by Members of Parliament and essential parliamentary staff only, following precautionary measures instituted in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak linked to the Bundibugyo virus strain originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo. As of early June 2026, Uganda has reported around 15 confirmed cases and one death, with health authorities actively monitoring the situation through enhanced surveillance, contact tracing, and cross-border measures.
Held in accordance with the Constitution, the annual address serves as a key platform for the President to report on the status of the nation and present the government’s policy direction. This marks Museveni’s 32nd such address, underscoring his long tenure since 1986, during which Uganda has transitioned from instability to notable economic and infrastructural gains.
Uganda finds itself at a pivotal moment. Following Museveni’s re-election with a strong mandate, the government has framed the new term as the “Kisanja of No Sleep” an era of intensified action toward economic transformation, wealth creation, and poverty eradication. The country is implementing its Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV, 2025/26–2029/30), themed around “sustainable industrialization for inclusive growth, employment, and wealth creation.”
On the economic front, Uganda has shown resilience. GDP growth has averaged around 6% in recent years, supported by infrastructure investments, rising exports (particularly coffee), and preparations for oil production ramp-up expected in 2027–2028. Electricity access has expanded to about 60% of the population, paved roads have increased significantly, and industrial parks are being developed to boost manufacturing. However, challenges persist: youth unemployment remains high, poverty affects over half the population, debt levels are rising, and service delivery in health and education needs strengthening. Issues like corruption, land disputes, and climate-related vulnerabilities (floods, droughts) continue to feature prominently in public discourse.
The Ebola outbreak adds urgency. With cases linked to travel from DRC’s Ituri Province, Uganda has activated robust response mechanisms honed from previous outbreaks. The limited attendance at Kololo reflects a balance between constitutional duty and public health safety, with the address to be broadcast live nationwide.
In his address, President Museveni is anticipated to highlight key achievements while laying out a forward-looking agenda, today’s address will also mark President Museveni’s 32nd State of the Nation Address since the constitutional requirement was instituted,
