The Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC) was honoured to host Prof. Victor Mulinde, the Executive Director of the African Economic Research Consortium and a distinguished senior policy advisor formerly with the African Development Bank (AfDB), for a high-level engagement that underscored the pivotal role of think tanks in shaping Africa’s development agenda.
During his visit, Prof. Mulinde commended EPRC for its longstanding contribution to Uganda’s policy landscape and its growing influence in regional economic policy networks. Reflecting on his past engagements with EPRC, he praised the Centre’s ability to deliver timely, cross-sectoral, and evidence-based research that informs national and continental priorities.
“When the management of an economy becomes knowledge-based, the role of a credible think tank like EPRC becomes indispensable. You have stood the test of time and continue to influence local and international policy debates,” said Mulinde.
Think Tanks as Drivers of Change
Mulinde emphasized that Africa’s development must be rooted in local expertise and data-driven decision-making. He noted that think tanks like EPRC play a vital role in bridging research and policy, providing governments with the tools to make informed and forward-looking choices. He praised EPRC’s unique strength in sustaining legacy expertise and intergenerational knowledge transfer, ensuring continuity and innovation in economic policy analysis.
“It is inspiring to see young economists step up and lead, working alongside the pioneers who built the Centre. That’s how Africa sustains momentum,” he remarked.
Stronger Partnerships with AERC
A key highlight of the visit was a presentation on the evolving strategic direction of the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC). He reiterated AERC’s commitment to:
- Expanding geographical inclusion to cover Portuguese-speaking and fragile states.
- Transitioning from fragmented research models to large thematic programmes focused on Africa’s pressing policy challenges.
- Deepening partnerships with national think tanks like EPRC to co-create knowledge, build capacity, and influence policy.
He invited EPRC to take on a governance role within AERC, recognising the Centre’s thought leadership and consistent engagement in the network’s research activities.
“You’ve demonstrated your relevance. We welcome you to play a leadership role as we reconfigure AERC to match Africa’s evolving economic challenges.”
Strengthening Institutional Ties and Capacity Building
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Sarah Ssewanyana, the Executive Director of EPRC, expressed deep appreciation for the Centre’s longstanding institutional partnership with AERC, emphasising that this collaboration has been critical in building EPRC’s research capacity. She underscored the impact of AERC’s researcher exchange programmes, noting that EPRC has hosted numerous AERC fellows over the years, benefiting from rich intellectual exchange and cross-country learning. She also highlighted the importance of AERC’s technical training and peer review mechanisms in advancing research quality.
“If you want to be a great economist, apply for an AERC Fellowship,” she said. “The critique process is so extensive and rigorous that it transforms your thinking—and yes, I have seen researchers tear up during sessions. But it’s part of the growth. It’s where excellence is born.” Her remarks reinforced the importance of African-led academic excellence and the critical role of organisations like AERC in nurturing the next generation of economists through structured mentorship, collaborative research, and strategic networks.
Shaping Africa’s Research Agenda
Mulinde concluded his address with a forward-looking perspective on Africa’s research priorities. He pointed out the need for robust research in:
- The security-development nexus
- Regional trade integration and AfCFTA opportunities
- Strategic engagement with global powers like China
- Inclusive industrialisation and youth employment
He called for a renewed focus on translating research into actionable policies, enabling African governments to anticipate global shocks better and seize emerging opportunities. Specifically, he advocated establishing a monetary union to help reduce transaction costs and promote regional economic integration. Mr. Mulinde expressed his commitment and willingness to collaborate with EPRC to champion the vision of “One East Africa, One Currency” and, ultimately, the realisation of a unified African currency. He reaffirmed his support for working closely with EPRC to help drive this transformative agenda for deeper continental integration.
Looking Ahead
EPRC Executive Director and senior researchers welcomed Mr. Mulinde’s insights and pledged to strengthen collaboration with AERC and other regional research platforms. The visit reaffirmed EPRC’s strategic vision to position itself as a thought leader in African economic transformation. “This engagement with Mr. Mulinde was more than a courtesy visit—it was a call to action for African institutions to co-create the continent’s development pathway,” said Dr. Madina Guloba, EPRC researcher and AERC Alumnus.