Social Work's Vital Role in Uganda's National Transformation Explained

A recent commentary from the Ugandan President questioning the value of social work courses has prompted an open letter from the National Association of Social Workers of Uganda. While acknowledging the President’s concern for national development and the pressures of high youth unemployment, the association defends the critical role of social work.

Social work is presented not as a niche academic pursuit, but as a globally recognized profession with direct applications to Uganda’s pressing social challenges. These include combating violence, child abuse, and issues related to poverty and exploitation. The profession’s introduction to Uganda dates back to the colonial era, indicating its long-standing recognition.

The letter highlights that social workers are primarily employed by Civil Society Organizations, often addressing the gaps left by limited government roles. They are instrumental in supporting vulnerable populations, including children in conflict with the law, individuals struggling with addiction, victims of trafficking and exploitation, and people with disabilities.

Addressing the President’s focus on economic development, the association introduces the concept of the “interpersonal or emotional economy.” This aspect of the economy, distinct from the production of tangible goods, focuses on relationships, emotional well-being, social capital, and collective support systems. Social workers are identified as key producers in this economy, generating intangible but crucial goods like empathy, trust, and community harmony.

This interpersonal economy has both intrinsic and instrumental value. Intangible services provided by social workers can directly impact productivity in the material economy. For instance, addressing domestic violence or family conflict enables individuals to participate more effectively in economic activities. The letter advocates for the “economization” of the social care sector, emphasizing the need for investment and regulation, particularly as traditional kinship support structures decline.

The association urges a broader conversation about how strengthening the social sector and recognizing the value of the interpersonal economy can contribute significantly to Uganda’s overall national development strategy and human improvement, ultimately enabling more Ugandans to seize economic opportunities. The letter calls for increased funding for social protection services and potentially a legal framework, akin to Kenya’s, to establish social protection as a right for all Ugandans facing life vulnerabilities.

This discussion is grounded in the insights from various scholars including Twikirize et al. (2019), Jordan (2007), Gui & Sugden (2005), Gui (2000), and Bandelj (2026).