By Caroline Nassuuna
ICPAU
Accountants have been applauded for taking a leading role in driving Uganda’s economic transformation. This was during the 14th CPA Economic Forum, held at the Imperial Resort Beach Hotel, Entebbe, and online.
The three-day forum, organised by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU), is being held from 15 to 17 July 2026 under the theme Powering Uganda’s US$ 500 Billion Future.
While delivering the keynote address on behalf of Dr Ramathan Ggoobi - Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) and Secretary to the Treasury, Joseph Enyimu – Commissioner, Economic Development Policy and Research, MoFPED, described the theme as both timely and strategic, noting that it places the accountancy profession at the centre of Uganda’s tenfold growth strategy.
He emphasised that achieving the country's target of a US$ 500 billion economy will require more than ambitious projections; it will demand trusted professionals, strong institutions, disciplined execution, and a culture of accountability.
"Numbers do not grow an economy on their own. Disciplined people do, and that is the business of accountants. When accountants do their job well, capital flows, revenue increases, and economies grow. When they do not, systems crumble,” said Enyimu.
He further noted that the government's Tenfold Growth Strategy seeks to double Uganda's Gross Domestic Product every five years through sustainable investments in agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral development, science and technology and innovation.
According to Enyimu, this national agenda presents a significant opportunity for accountants to contribute beyond traditional accounting functions. He advised accountants to position themselves as strategic advisors who support investment mobilisation, strengthen public financial management, improve revenue generation, enhance risk governance, and promote accountability across both the public and private sectors.
"The Tenfold Growth Strategy is, in many respects, an accountant's agenda. Every pillar of the strategy depends on sound financial systems, prudent resource allocation, and effective governance,” said Enyimu.
He stressed that trust remains the profession's greatest asset, describing it as the "stock in trade" of every accountant. He urged accountants to guard their integrity jealously, uphold the highest ethical standards, and continue raising the quality of financial reporting and assurance services.
Recognising ICPAU's contribution to national development, Enyimu commended the Institute for consistently raising professional standards and creating platforms, such as the CPA Economic Forum, that shape national dialogue on economic policy and development.
The 14th CPA Economic Forum has brought together policymakers, business leaders, development partners, economists, and accounting professionals to discuss practical strategies for accelerating Uganda's economic growth and strengthening the role of the accountancy profession in achieving the country's long-term development aspirations.
The forum is organised by ICPAU in partnership with National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), The Electoral Commission, The Micro Finance Support Centre, PKF Uganda, Ernst & Young, National Water & Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), Centenary Bank, Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA), Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (URBRA) and Roofings.
