According to the World Bank, poverty in Uganda remains a pressing issue, with about 30% and 42% of the population living below the national and international poverty line. Although various initiatives have been implemented in the last couple of years, at least 50% of the population is at the edge of falling back into poverty in 2025.

Top Facts on Poverty in Uganda

1. Based on an analysis of the 1989-90 Household Budget Survey, Uganda’s poverty assessment was divided along two lines. The first poverty category was defined by a level representing the spending needed for a daily consumption of 2,200 calories and some non-food expenditures. Ugandans falling below this line were categorized as “poor.” The second poverty level was set at a line representing the bare minimum for adequate food intake. Those who fell below even that line were labeled the “poorest.” 
2. About 55% of those living in rural Uganda are multidimensionally poor. Not only is poverty more widespread in rural areas, it is also more severe. Thus, poverty-related indicators – household size, dependency ratio and illiteracy – are higher for rural Uganda.
3. Because of poverty in Uganda, life expectancy for men and women is one of the lowest in the world at an average of 66 years. Neonatal conditions and HIV/AIDS have emerged as significant factors in causing mortality and morbidity in both genders. In Uganda, neonatal issues account for around 52% of female fatalities and 70% of male fatalities, while HIV/AIDS contributes to approximately 39% of female deaths and more than 50% of male deaths.
   Additionally, diarrhea, stroke and lower respiratory infections are almost as prevalent as AIDS as reported causes of death. With a per-capita income of $2693.1, Uganda is regarded as one of the most impoverished countries in the world. These grim facts testify to the destruction brought about by the political turmoil and economic decline characteristics in more than ten years of despotic leadership.
4. Uganda’s small revenue has made it extremely difficult to target its impoverished human capital directly. Nevertheless, social protection mechanisms are central to uplifting the poor and allowing them to achieve their full productivity potential. Recognizing this, the government has attempted to reprioritize its expenditures in favor of the social sectors and rural infrastructure. Some newer areas of focus include the government development of family planning programs and the promotion of literacy and education. Yet, the development of social indicators is still lagging, particularly for rural women who work longer hours than men.

Efforts to Tackle Poverty in Uganda

Despite the seemingly enormous magnitude of poverty in Uganda, some economic progress has occurred in recent years. For example, the government has implemented a far-reaching economic reform agenda that has transformed Uganda into one of the most liberal economies in sub-Saharan Africa. This entails the liberalization of the exchange and trade regime, the endorsement of a new investment code and the liberalization of the agricultural market. With these factors in play, the government is readying the way for future economic growth.

In fact, aggregate real per capita GDP actually grew substantially between 1987 and 1991, whereas previously, it had been in steady decline. It is true that Uganda’s economic situation still seems bleak and poverty remains rampant. Yet, as past examples indicate, economic reform coupled with an increased focus on social affairs can bring greater hope for the poor.

– Grace Zhao

Photo: Pexels
Updated: May 27, 2024