📸 Development Finance Summit opens in Kampala

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A two-day development finance summit has opened in Kampala, bringing together experts to discuss how Africa can reshape its economic future through new approaches to financing.

The meeting, convened by the Uganda Development Bank (UDB) at the Speke Resort Munyonyo, runs under the theme “Transforming Africa through National Development Finance Architecture.”

It is expected to draw wide-ranging discussions on how African economies can secure the resources needed to drive growth, create jobs, and adapt to shifting global conditions.

In its opening remarks, UDB said the summit should be seen as a platform to rethink the continent’s financing framework with the goal of accelerating sustainable and inclusive transformation. The bank pointed to the pressure facing many African countries, Uganda included, as they try to create enough productive jobs for a fast-rising working-age population.

“The summit is not just a meeting of minds. It is a call for action. We must build resilience,” Patricia Ojangole said.

She said that without meaningful dialogue with policymakers to strengthen public-private partnerships, capital to finance Africa’s public sector or help African businesses grow and create more jobs will remain expensive or elusive.

President Museveni accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, waving to the delegates.

The summit is drawing representatives from national and international development finance institutions. These bodies play a key role in de-risking areas such as energy, infrastructure and manufacturing, making them more attractive for both public and private investment.

Finance Minister, Matia Kasaija c) in a light mood at the summit.

Keynote Speaker, Arshad Rab, CEO of the European Union organization for sustainable development.

Patricia Ojongole, Chief Executive officer, UDB.

President Museveni addressing the delegates.

President Museveni with the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, in a group photo with some of the delegates of Uganda Development Finance Summit at Speke Resort, Munyonyo.

Geoffrey Kihuguru, Chairperson, Board, Uganda Development Bank (L) interacting with Admassu Tadesse, President TDB Group.

Maggie Kigozi, Finance Minister Matia Kasaija and former Agriculture Minister Victoria Sekitooleko.

Finane Minister, Matia Kasaija interacting with guests.

Valentino dancers entertaining guests.

Delegates at the summit.