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By Flaminia Maldi Colombo

On 22 April 2026, the Republic of Uganda officially launched its Technology Needs Assessment (TNA) with the support of United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries. This marks an important step in translating national ambitions on science, technology and innovation (STI) into concrete development pathways.

The TNA was launched by the Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Uganda. Convened virtually and led by the STI Secretariat under the Office of the President, the kick-off meeting brought together a high-level, inter-ministerial Steering Committee, alongside representatives from government institutions, academia, the private sector, development partners, and the United Nations system.

The discussions underscored a central message: Uganda鈥檚 TNA is not simply a technical exercise, but a whole-of-government and whole-of-economy process, anchored in national ownership and aligned with the country鈥檚 long-term development vision.

A Timely Moment for Transformation

The launch comes at a pivotal moment in Uganda鈥檚 development trajectory. Having met the criteria for graduation from the Least Developed Country (LDC) category for the first time in 2024, the country is now focused on ensuring that progress is sustainable and irreversible.

In this context, STI is increasingly seen as a key enabler of structural transformation, supporting value addition, industrial development, and competitiveness.

In her remarks, H.E. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, emphasized:

鈥淚n a knowledge economy, technology is not merely an enhancer, it is the driver of economic transformation.鈥� She further stressed that Uganda鈥檚 development path is deliberate and structured, evolving from a commodity-based economy toward a knowledge-based one, with a strong focus on value addition and technological capability.

The Role of the TNA: From Analysis to Implementation

The TNA is designed to move beyond analysis by identifying priority sectors, mapping technology gaps, and defining practical solutions that can be translated into investments.

As highlighted by the Managing Director Mr. Deodat Maharaj, during the launch:

鈥淭he TNA is not just an analytical exercise. It is designed to translate priorities into concrete, implementable projects.鈥�

A key feature of the process is its strong institutional anchoring within the STI Secretariat, ensuring alignment with national priorities and effective coordination across sectors.

The Inter-Sectoral Steering Committee introduced during the meeting will guide the process, validate findings, and support the integration of results into national planning frameworks.

The kick-off meeting also served to align stakeholders on the methodology, roles, and next steps. Participants engaged in an initial exchange to inform the direction of the assessment and ensure early ownership across institutions.

This inclusive approach will be central to maintaining a process that is both evidence-based and responsive to national needs.

In addition, the active engagement of the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Leonard Zulu, the UN System in Uganda reinforces a coordinated, system-wide approach to supporting Uganda鈥檚 development priorities.

The Minister underscored the importance of collective responsibility:

鈥淭his must be a whole-of-government and whole-of-economy effort.鈥�

Looking Ahead

The next phase of the TNA will focus on sector prioritization, technology identification, and stakeholder consultations, leading to the development of investment-ready proposals.

The coming months will be decisive in translating Uganda鈥檚 vision into concrete outcomes that can drive productivity, create jobs, and support economic diversification.

As emphasized during the launch, the ultimate success of the TNA will depend not only on the quality of analysis, but on sustained engagement, strong coordination, and the ability to mobilize investments for implementation.

A Broader Message for LDCs

Uganda鈥檚 TNA launch carries a message that extends beyond national borders. This process reflects a wider shift: moving from ambition to implementation.

Uganda鈥檚 approach, combining strong national leadership, clear strategic vision, and a focus on actionable outcomes, offers a compelling example of how countries can leverage STI not only to meet graduation criteria, but to sustain progress beyond it.

Ultimately, the TNA is not just about identifying technologies, it is about strengthening the foundations for long-term economic transformation. It is where innovation supports productivity, diversification, and resilience making a difference in the lives of people.

About the UN Technology Bank  

The UN Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries is dedicated to enhancing the contribution of science, technology and innovation for sustainable development in the world鈥檚 44 least developed countries. The least developed countries are low-income countries confronting severe structural impediments to sustainable development. They are highly vulnerable to economic and environmental shocks and have low levels of human assets.  

The UN Technology Bank supports national and regional technological efforts in the least developed countries, reinforcing partnerships across sectors and helping nations identify and use appropriate technologies to transform their economies and improve livelihoods.

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