Dmitry Pozhidaev, the head of the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), sheds light on the Development Initiative for Northern Uganda (DINU), a project implemented in collaboration with the European Union and the Ugandan government. The initiative aimed to address critical needs in Northern Uganda, focusing on various sectors, including rehabilitation of road infrastructure, food security, and good governance.
How was the Development Initiative for Northern Uganda (DINU) conceptualized?
DINU was conceived as part of EU assistance to Uganda, based on a joint analysis of the critical needs of Northern Uganda performed by the EU and the Government of Uganda. The program involved extensive collaboration with government entities, local governments, and various stakeholders, such as financial institutions, NGOs, and civil society representatives.
What was UNCDF’s role in DINU?
UNCDF, with its unique financial mandate, played a crucial role in DINU by complementing capital sources in developing countries through grants, concessional loans, and guarantees. The program’s components included the rehabilitation of road infrastructure, food security initiatives (such as the successful START facility supporting agribusinesses), and efforts towards good governance. UNCDF aimed to improve fiscal positions and enhance the capacity of local governments to deliver services.
What are the key pillars of DINU?
DINU’s key pillars include food security, enabling infrastructure for economic development, and addressing climate change challenges in Northern Uganda. The program’s focus on these pillars was informed by the critical needs identified in the area through a consultative process with the government and non-government actors.
Why did you focus on Northern Uganda?
DINU was developed in close consultation with the Ugandan government, which identified development in Northern Uganda as a priority. The region had previously seen sector-specific programs, but DINU stood out by cutting across various sectors. The government’s prioritization, coupled with the acceptance of this priority by the European Union and other partners, led to the focus on Northern Uganda.
What comes next after the conclusion of DINU?
While DINU concludes, engagement with Northern Uganda will persist. UNCDF has launched two programs—the second phase of the START facility with an expanded budget covering the entire country, giving priority to projects from Northern Uganda. Another initiative, started with the participation of Belgium and Sweden, anticipates substantial contributions from the European Union in the near future.
This interview provides insight into the collaborative efforts aimed at addressing the multifaceted development needs of Northern Uganda and outlines the ongoing commitment to the region beyond the DINU project.
