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Namutebi Edith Nsubuga

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Minister Counselor

Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Kinshasa,

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

Ph.D. in International Development ('17)

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Please tell us about your career path so far. What is your area of specialization and how did you come to work in this area?

I started my career journey as a Credit Officer and transitioned to diplomacy in 2002. I have moved through the diplomatic career ladder from Third Secretary to my current position as Minister Counselor, which I have held since 2022. In my diplomatic career, I have handled diverse issues, including coordination of regional peace and security initiatives, promotion of trade, tourism, and investments, and fostering partnerships and synergies in the education, health, and social sectors. Specialization remains a desirable dream.

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You are currently serving as Minister Counselor at the Embassy of Uganda in Kinshasa-Democratic Republic of Congo. Please tell us about your main roles and responsibilities.

As a Minister Counselor at the Embassy of Uganda in Kinshasa, I coordinate the holding of bilateral meetings of mutual concern to the Republic of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Republic of Congo (Congo Brazzaville). I keep track of the decisions made in such meetings, and follow up on their implementation. Additionally, I advocate and lobby for Uganda's interests, as well as establish desirable partnerships and linkages between parties in the areas of accreditation.

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With the Director and team from the Ministry of Regional Affairs - DRC, after a preparatory meeting for the 8th session of the Joint Permanent Commission between the Republic of Uganda and the DRC.

In your current capacity, what do you see as the main opportunities and challenges for Uganda over the course of the next five to ten years?

Uganda is a land of opportunities given its geographical location, hospitable people, beautiful climate,

abundant water resources, and fertile soils. It has an abundant labor force, vast mineral, oil, and gas resources, and extensive opportunities in the agricultural sector, tourism, knowledge and ICT, industrialization, and trade. All of these resources have not yet been fully harnessed. In my view, policy direction should be geared towards tapping into these resources and revitalizing the public sector, which is the fabric for fostering a conducive environment for the rest of the sectors to thrive.

In my view, the major challenge for Uganda is the failure to prioritize and properly utilize the available resources, as well as the failure to coordinate the implementation of the good policies in place. There seems to be a lot of waste in government expenditure, a non-responsive public sector, and a fatigued private sector. ?

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your work?

The biggest challenge in my work is the lack of attention to specialization and merit, as well as the generally slow career progression.

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And what have been the most interesting or rewarding aspects of your career thus far?

The most interesting aspect of my career is the exposure and opportunities it presents. Promoting the interests of Uganda outside its borders necessitates travel, meeting influential people, dining and wining with the "princes and princesses" coupled to the standardized privileges and immunities that come with diplomatic practice. As an example, my initial interface with GRIPS was through my work as a diplomat at the Embassy of Uganda in Tokyo.

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Enhancing the role of women in peace initiatives for stabilizing Eastern DRC

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What led you to GRIPS? What is the most important thing you got out of your studies, and how has your experience at GRIPS prepared you for future endeavors?

The Ugandan 'Sempais' at GRIPS guided me there through my work, which entailed handling the education schedule.

My interaction with them awakened my originally shelved desire for career advancement and pursuing a PhD.　

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The course content, learning style, lectures, and the support from the academic and non-academic staff were part of the training I received at GRIPS even before I graduated. I was humbled by the hospitable people, the interactive and accommodating lectures, the tutorials, the responsive professors, and the committed supervisors, all of whom showcased a high degree of humility and dedication. These are virtues I picked up from GRIPS. I had never seen people who were so attentive to service and superior in delivery. For example, my main advisor, Prof. Sonobe, was a Vice President of the Institute but responded to my emails instantly and met with me almost weekly without complaint. It's no wonder he is now the President of the Asian Development Bank Institute; he is truly committed and dedicated. I promised myself to emulate him.

Content-wise, the PhD in International Development I received from GRIPS has helped me handle my work more competently, increased my analytical skills, enhanced my writing skills, and boosted my confidence and attitude towards my work in a holistic manner.

With Prof. Sonobe after the graduation Ceremony at GRIPS

Have you had any involvement, professional or otherwise, with Japan since your graduation?

Yes; I have visited the Embassies of Japan in different areas of accreditation during the course of my work and interacted with the staff there. I hosted a Japanese Overseas Volunteer for three months in Uganda at a music school that promotes Japanese culture and music education (AIMEC), and I have received two teams for the same from Japan. I popularize education in Japan and have encouraged many students to apply for Japanese scholarships. I personally use 'Kaizen' principles in my work and personal life.

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How do you maintain a balance between your work and the rest of your life? And what is your favorite thing to do when you are not working?

I am involved in children's ministry and organize several activities for children during holidays. In the first-term holiday, we do sports and compete among parishes, with the winner receiving a trophy. In the second-term holiday, we focus on music, dance, and drama. We wind up the year with a kids' retreat that empowers them to live responsibly.

Children's Ministry Honoring the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda during his pastoral visit to Nateete Archdeaconry - Namirembe Diocese.

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What are some of your fondest memories of your time spent at GRIPS? And what do you miss about Japan?

I enjoyed my stay in Japan. At GRIPS, I have fond memories of the lecture delivery styles, the guest lectures, the fun moments in the cafeteria at the beginning and end of the semester and our outings with Sonobe Sensei.?

For Japan, I miss the Yamanote line and the shopping at Shibuya; the Sakura; the cleanliness, TGF and Saizeria.

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If you could give one piece of advice to anyone considering studying at GRIPS what would it be?

Seize the opportunity at GRIPS before it's too late.

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How would you like to maintain involved with the School? What do you expect from GRIPS as an alumnus and do you have any suggestions on how to further utilize the GRIPS alumni network?

I am open to any engagement with GRIPS. I am so proud of GRIPS and owe my advancement to it.

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