KAMPALA, Uganda — Remittances from Ugandans living abroad reached $2.5 billion in 2025, according to new data released Wednesday by the Bank of Uganda. The figure is $1 billion higher than previous estimates, reflecting a significant improvement in the country’s ability to track international money transfers.
The central bank, in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development, launched the Granular Remittance Dashboard at the Golden Tulip Hotel to provide a more precise look at how money enters the country.
Hillary Musoke, a senior presidential advisor on agribusiness, said at the launch that the diaspora has become a cornerstone of the national economy. Musoke represented Mohammed Bagonza, head of the State House Diaspora Unit.
Data from the new dashboard shows that more than 16 million transactions occurred last year, with an average transfer of $152. Most of these funds were used to cover basic household needs, including food, education and healthcare.
The United States remains the primary source of these funds, contributing $702 million, or 28% of the total. Other major sources include Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates and Canada.
Digital platforms have become the preferred method for sending money, with mobile money services accounting for 61% of all receipts. Overall, digital channels handled 73% of all inflows, while traditional cash services managed the remaining 27%.
The launch follows the government’s introduction of the National Migration Policy earlier this month, which seeks to better integrate the diaspora into Uganda’s long-term economic planning.
While Uganda is a major recipient of funds, the data also showed $402 million in outflows last year, primarily sent to India, Kenya and the United States. Central bank officials said the new dashboard will be updated monthly to provide policymakers with real-time evidence for financial and social planning.
