Kampala's Public Investment Future: A Bold Step Forward or a Missed Opportunity?
Jinja is witnessing a groundbreaking initiative as the Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE) takes center stage with a specialized training program. This two-week intensive course, funded by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), aims to empower KCCA's technical teams with advanced skills in financial appraisal and risk analysis. But is this just a routine training session, or a pivotal moment in Uganda's public investment landscape?
The PIM CoE at Makerere University is leaving no stone unturned to ensure KCCA's teams are equipped to tackle the complexities of public investment. From November 17 to 28, 2025, participants will delve into a curriculum designed to foster hands-on expertise in project development, financial modeling, economic analysis, and more. But here's where it gets controversial—the training also promises to prepare them for the evolving landscape of public policy and legislative proposal appraisal.
Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director of PIM CoE, praised KCCA's dedication to enhancing internal capacity. He highlighted the Centre's gratitude for the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development's (MoFPED) ongoing support, which has propelled the Centre to the forefront of public investment management in Uganda. But is this collaboration truly unique, or a standard practice in the field?
The training's focus on practical skills is a refreshing approach, ensuring participants gain transferable abilities. Dr. John Sseruyange, Manager of PIM CoE, emphasized the global trend of rigorous financial and risk appraisal, a process that Uganda is now adopting for public policies and proposals. And this is the part most people miss—the potential impact of this training on the broader public sector.
As the training progresses, Prof. Bbaale revealed exciting prospects. Upon completing future modules, trainees will receive a joint certification from Makerere University and MoFPED. This certification could be a game-changer, but will it live up to its promise? The Centre's recent achievements, such as updating national guidelines and evaluating public investment performance, demonstrate its commitment to Uganda's investment reform. But how will these milestones translate into tangible improvements?
Over the two weeks, KCCA participants will scrutinize real-world projects in transport, education, water, energy, and health. This practical approach aims to create a pool of experts capable of steering well-appraised investments aligned with national goals. But will this training truly bridge the gap between theory and practice, and what challenges might lie ahead?
In conclusion, this initiative marks a significant step in KCCA's journey toward financial excellence. But will it be a transformative force for Uganda's public investment sector? The answer may lie in the hands of the participants and the real-world impact they achieve. What do you think? Is this a bold step forward or a missed opportunity for broader reform?
