Finance minister seeks solution for declining shilling

By John Odyek

Finance minister Matia Kasaija has asked the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC) to find out why the shilling has been weakening against the dollar over an extended period of time.

"I ask EPRC to do research on how to prevent the shilling from sliding against the dollar, I want to hear from the wise how we can save our shilling," Kasaija said.

This was during the launch of a new brand identity, logo and website for the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC). The function took place at Serena Hotel.

The new logo of the EPRC is aimed at enhancing its relevance, effectiveness and visibility in providing evidence driven policy advice for sustainable development in Uganda.

The logo contains the symbol of a bulb that symbolizes fresh ideas to be generated. It has a sketch of a human portrait to express people empowerment through knowledge.

EPRC was start in 1993 by the ministry of finance and Makerere University as a non- profit making institution focusing on economic research and development policy.

Gen Moses Ali, second deputy prime minister commended EPRC for the work they were doing.

"I am happy to note that EPRC is rebranding to reposition itself as a think tank in the region. The government is adopting many international frameworks such as the UN's Sustainable Development Goals where the work of EPRC will be required," Ali said.

Ali said he had drafted a book about the turbulent period which he asked the EPRC to edit. He said contradictions in politics and history had been the source of conflict in Uganda.

He said influential individuals conflicting, personal egos and the struggle for power had characterized the political history of Uganda.

Dr Sarah Ssewanyana, executive director EPRC said the center has grown over the years due to the support from different stakeholders including government, Africa Capacity Building Institution, International Development Research Center who has funded the rebranding exercise.

Ssewanyana noted that there should be continued funding for research as the funding landscape seems to be shrinking.

"We are grateful to the government for leaving us to be independent and not tell us to change numbers in research we find," Ssewanyana said.
She said EPRC was keen to help support in providing implementation ideas for the strategies and plans it draws out.

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