The First National Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Conference and Expo 2026 kicked off in Kampala, bringing together various stakeholders to discuss sustainable investment and responsible business practices. The event was officially opened by Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs. Kadaga emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability considerations into Uganda's development agenda. The conference aims to promote sustainable development and attract green investment in the country.
In her keynote address, Kadaga highlighted Uganda's progress in promoting sustainable development, including the launch of the National Climate Finance Strategy and the National Green Taxonomy. These initiatives are intended to support and attract green investment in the country. Kadaga also noted Uganda's efforts to mobilize climate financing through the Green Climate Fund, with the country securing support for more than 13 climate projects. This demonstrates Uganda's commitment to addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development.
Kadaga emphasized that Environmental, Social and Governance principles should no longer be viewed merely as compliance requirements or corporate social responsibility initiatives. Instead, they are important tools for improving market access, business resilience, and investment decisions. By integrating ESG principles into their operations, businesses can improve their performance and contribute to sustainable development. Kadaga's remarks underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to sustainable development in Uganda.
The conference brings together various stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and civil society organizations. They will discuss issues related to sustainable investment, responsible business practices, and ESG principles. The event provides a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in promoting sustainable development. It also offers opportunities for networking and collaboration among participants.
Kadaga called for the development of a National ESG Framework to provide guidance for the integration of ESG principles across different sectors of the economy. This framework will help ensure that ESG principles are mainstreamed into Uganda's development agenda. The framework will also provide a basis for monitoring and evaluating progress in promoting sustainable development. Kadaga's call for a National ESG Framework reflects the need for a coordinated approach to sustainable development in Uganda.
Uganda is pursuing ambitious economic growth while seeking to protect its natural heritage. The country aims to balance economic development with environmental protection and social responsibility. Kadaga's remarks emphasized the need for sustainability considerations to be integrated into Uganda's development agenda. This approach will help ensure that economic growth is sustainable and equitable.
The First National ESG Conference and Expo 2026 is a significant step towards promoting sustainable development in Uganda. The event demonstrates the country's commitment to addressing climate change, promoting sustainable investment, and integrating ESG principles into its development agenda. Key outcomes of the conference are expected to inform Uganda's future development plans and policies.
Key points
- Uganda launches its first National ESG Conference and Expo to promote sustainable investment and responsible business practices.
- The conference aims to integrate sustainability considerations into Uganda's development agenda.
- A National ESG Framework is proposed to guide the integration of ESG principles across different sectors of the economy.
