Minister for Youth and Children Affairs Balaam Ateenyi Barugahara has expressed support for the proposed Sovereignty and National Security Bill currently under review in Parliament, urging lawmakers and stakeholders to shape it in a way that balances security concerns with economic growth.
His remarks come as parliamentary committees continue to receive submissions from legal experts, economists, civil society organisations, and business leaders weighing in on the proposed law, which seeks to regulate foreign influence, funding flows, and national security safeguards.
Speaking on X, Balaam acknowledged the strong public debate surrounding the Bill, noting that both support and opposition voices had been presented.
“I have seen many opposing the Bill while appearing at the parliamentary committee sitting. Constructive ideas are welcome to help shape a balanced framework that safeguards both national security and economic growth,” he said.
He emphasised that national security and economic development are closely linked, arguing that no country can achieve sustainable growth without protecting itself from external risks.
“As both a leader and a businessperson, I support a strong Sovereignty & National Security Bill for Uganda. Security is the foundation of prosperity. No nation can thrive if it cannot protect itself from harmful infiltration,” he added.
International examples cited
Balaam pointed to global regulatory systems he said demonstrate how countries can protect sovereignty while still attracting investment.
He cited frameworks such as the United States’ PATRIOT Act and CFIUS investment screening system, the United Kingdom’s National Security and Investment Act, Australia’s Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB), Canada’s Investment Canada Act, Germany’s foreign trade controls, and Japan’s FEFTA system.
He also referenced similar mechanisms across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, including South Africa’s investment protection laws, Egypt’s screening framework, the United Arab Emirates’ national security review system, Saudi Arabia’s investment regulations, India’s FDI screening rules, Singapore’s safeguards, and China’s national security review structure.
“These systems show that it is possible to protect national interests while remaining open to investment and trade,” he noted.
Focus on youth employment and investment
The minister stressed that Uganda must not lose sight of job creation for young people as discussions on the Bill continue.
“In Uganda, we must promote economic growth while keeping national security paramount. As a Minister for young people, I appeal for increased investment to create employment opportunities for our youth without compromising our national security,” he said.
He added that legislation should be carefully structured to avoid unnecessary restrictions on trade and investment while still protecting sensitive sectors.
“Uganda must strike the right balance—protect critical sectors, ensure transparency, and avoid unnecessary barriers to trade and investment,” he said.
Appeal to Parliament
Balaam called on legislators to support the Bill but with amendments that reflect both Uganda’s democratic values and its economic ambitions.
“I encourage legislators in Parliament to support this Bill with balanced economic amendments that reflect our democratic values and free market principles. Let us support this Bill with our nation’s development and stability as our highest priority,” he said.
He maintained that national security should remain central to policy decisions.
“National security is paramount. A secure nation is a prosperous nation. Sovereignty must be protected. Let all patriots give constructive proposals rather than opposing in totality,” he said.