Uganda National NGO Forum in partnership with CivSource Africa and Coalition of Development partners have unveiled the first-ever Uganda Philanthropy Week, running from 4th to 9th August 2025.
Under the theme,“Celebrating and Reclaiming Giving: Centering Local Philanthropy in Uganda,” the event marks ahistoric milestone in recognizing the country’s rich legacy of generosity.
Moses Isooba Executive Director of Ngo Forum says for generations Ugandans have relied on community solidarity, mutual aid, and homegrown solutions to meet local needs.
“From traditional giving circles to modern nonprofit efforts, philanthropy has long been embedded in the fabric of Ugandan society.This week is about honoring our heritage of giving, amplifying its impact, and ensuring our laws and policies reflect the realities of local philanthropy,” Isooba said
Citing Donor funds squeeze to Civil Society, Isooba said they intend to rely on Philanthropists to drive community interventions going forward.
“Although foreign aid continues to play a role in national development, indigenous giving systems remain under recognized and under supported. We therefore want to make Ugandan generosity visible and viable.” Jackie Asiimwe, CEO CivSource Africa emphasized.
According to Asiimwe the week’s programming will shade a light on the transformative potential of local philanthropy emphasizing more on how community driven initiatives often lead to sustainable solutions.
Highlighting the weeks activities,Asiimwe further said top on the agenda will be to celebrate Uganda’s diverse giving traditions, both cultural and modern,recognizing local philanthropic champions—individuals, families, communities, and businesses making a difference.
Another planned activity is to engage policymakers to shape enabling laws and tax frameworks that support homegrown philanthropy and to promote sustainable, locally led development financing to reduce dependency and build national resilience.
Isooba noted that Uganda Philanthropy Week 2025 is not just a celebration, it is a movement that intends to address economic challenges and evolving global dynamics.
He appealed to the public corporations, civil society, and government institutions to rally behind local giving as alternative for funding community projects.
Isooba said the planned Uganda Philanthropy Week promises a series of engaging events, forums, and community showcases across the country.
“Participants should expect inspiring stories, meaningful dialogue, and tangible actions that will shape the future of local philanthropy”he stressed.
In Uganda, numerous non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a vital role in various sectors, including healthcare, education, child protection, and human rights. Approximately 14,000 registered NGOs operate in Uganda, impacting the lives of citizens and contributing to development. These organizations range from local community-based groups to large international NGOs however due to donor change in priority most Civil society are stuck without funding and their presence in community have dwindled.