Civil Society in Transition: Reclaiming Trust, Voice, and Purpose in Uganda
In September and October 2025, more than 400 delegates gathered at Mestil Hotel, Kampala for the 2025 National Civil Society Organisation (CSO) Convention, a national platform for learning, reflection, and joint action across Uganda’s civil society ecosystem.
Over two days, participants engaged in plenary sessions, panel discussions, and breakaway conversations focused on the practical realities that shape the sector’s effectiveness and sustainability. A consistent message emerged throughout the Convention: civil society’s long-term strength depends on trust, integrity, evidence-informed practice, and shared accountability, as well as the discipline to scale what works, collaborate more intentionally, and innovate to serve communities better.
The Convention closed with renewed energy and a clear takeaway: lasting impact is built through consistent engagement, stronger coordination, and a commitment to doing the work well, together.