Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa has called for an inclusive approach to addressing social protection in Uganda.
Tayebwa made the remark during the National Social Protection Dialogue 2025, organized by the ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, held at Serena Hotel in Kampala.
“Addressing social protection? Yes, government must take the lead. However, it should involve all people, right from the communities, especially those predominantly living with people with disabilities, children, and older persons, who are the most vulnerable categories,” he said.
Tayebwa said social protection is a critical aspect of life that must be handled seriously. He revealed that in the next financial year, the government will approve the Social Assistance Grant for Empowerment (SAGE) with a budget of Shs 252 billion to support the needy.
He also challenged Ugandans over the country’s poor saving culture, describing it as another major challenge.
“People must learn to save for the future,” he urged. “Many people, including civil and public servants as well as MPs, grapple with life after retirement or leaving their jobs.”
In the same meeting, the minister of State for Disability Affairs, Hellen Asamo, decried the absence of a dedicated law to govern social protection. She explained that such a law would create a better system to streamline social protection efforts, citing South Africa, where a similar law is in place and working effectively.
Over the past thirty years, Uganda has significantly reduced its poverty rate from over 50% in the 1990s to 20.3% in 2020.
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