President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has assented to eight new laws which were passed by the national parliament .
The laws intended to improve governance and increase economic opportunities target sectors such as health, energy, labour, justice, finance, public enterprises, and intellectual property.
Among the most significant laws include , the Magistrates Courts (Amendment) Act, 2026, which will improve efficiency in lower courts, the National Drug and Health Products Authority Act, 2026, which broadens regulation of medicines, vaccines, medical devices, diagnostics, cosmetics, and other health products.
The law is expected to improve public safety by strengthening standards, inspections, and oversight while helping to combat counterfeit and substandard products on the market. It also places Uganda in a stronger position to support local pharmaceutical manufacturing and regional trade in health products.
The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act, 2026 introduces mandatory standards, audits, and regulation of inefficient technologies. The law is aimed at reducing energy waste, lowering operational costs for businesses, and promoting responsible consumption as Uganda continues to industrialize. Efficient energy use is increasingly seen as necessary for economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Museveni also assented to the Employment (Amendment) Act, 2025, which strengthens protections for domestic workers, casual labourers, and migrant workers. Many of these workers have long operated with limited legal safeguards, and the amendment is expected to improve fairness, working conditions, and labour rights across vulnerable sectors.
The Forensic and Scientific Analytical Services Act, 2026 is another important reform that seeks to improve scientific evidence handling, laboratory systems, and criminal investigations. Better forensic capacity can enhance justice delivery, support accurate prosecutions, and increase confidence in law enforcement institutions.
Other laws signed include the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Act, 2026, which is expected to support Uganda’s growing creative industry through stronger protection of artistic works, the Public Enterprises Reform and Divestiture (Amendment) Act, 2024.
The Non-Performing Assets Recovery Trust (Repeal) Act, 2024 dissolves the Trust and transfers its functions to the Ministry of Finance, a move aimed at streamlining public operations.
Taken together, the eight laws represent a broad reform agenda. Their success, however, will depend on effective implementation, enforcement, and adequate public awareness across the country.
