KAMPALA — Buganda Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga has cautioned that rising insecurity, including reports of kidnappings and allegations of torture, could erode investor confidence and slow Uganda’s economic growth if left unaddressed.
Mayiga made the remarks on Monday while addressing the Buganda Lukiiko during the presentation of the Buganda Kingdom’s Shs409.315 billion budget for the 2026/2027 financial year at Bulange, Mengo.
The Katikkiro said peace, security and respect for the rule of law remain fundamental prerequisites for economic development, warning that persistent reports of insecurity risk tarnishing Uganda’s image as an attractive investment destination.
“For any country to develop economically, there must be peace, stability and trust in institutions,” Mayiga said, urging authorities to uphold constitutional principles and guarantee the safety and rights of all citizens.
He noted that both domestic and foreign investors closely monitor a country’s security environment before making investment decisions, arguing that uncertainty can discourage new investments and expansion plans.
Uganda has, over the past decade, positioned itself as one of East Africa’s leading investment destinations, attracting capital into sectors such as oil and gas, manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, infrastructure and telecommunications. Government agencies have promoted the country’s strategic location, improving infrastructure and investment incentives as key drivers of economic growth.
However, economists and governance experts have consistently argued that investor confidence depends not only on economic policies but also on political stability, predictable governance, an independent justice system and respect for human rights. Prolonged insecurity or perceptions of instability can raise business risks and affect foreign direct investment.
Mayiga’s remarks come amid increasing public debate over reports of abductions, violent crime, allegations of torture and heightened security operations in different parts of the country. The developments have drawn concern from civil society organisations, religious leaders and opposition politicians, who have called for greater accountability and protection of constitutional rights.
The comments also come as Uganda prepares to implement several major economic projects, including the commercialisation of its oil and gas sector, the development of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), industrial expansion and initiatives aimed at attracting more foreign direct investment.
During the same Lukiiko sitting, the Buganda Kingdom unveiled a Shs409.315 billion budget for the 2026/2027 financial year, reflecting an increase from the previous financial year’s allocation. Kingdom officials said the budget will prioritize agriculture, tourism, education, healthcare, youth empowerment and socio-economic transformation programmes across Buganda.
Throughout his tenure as Katikkiro, Mayiga has consistently emphasized good governance, accountability, prudent financial management and economic self-reliance as essential pillars for sustainable development within the kingdom and the country at large.
The Ugandan government has repeatedly maintained that the country remains peaceful and secure, arguing that security operations conducted by law enforcement agencies are intended to protect citizens, preserve public order and safeguard national security.