Da Dona
JF-Expert Member
- Dec 16, 2025
- 805
- 508
Kampala, Uganda: President Yoweri Museveni has proposed the removal of Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax on scientists’ salaries, arguing that the move would accelerate Uganda’s economic transformation through innovation and research.
He remarked this during the launch of Uganda’s first locally developed anti-tick vaccine in Wakiso District, where heemphasized the critical role scientists play in driving industrialisation and national development.
Museveni noted that taxing scientists could discourage innovation and limit the country’s ability to retain skilled professionals. He argued that scientists should instead be supported through incentives, including tax exemptions, to enable them to focus on research that directly contributes to economic growth.
The President’s proposal is rooted in a broader government strategy to prioritise science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of Uganda’s future economy. By removing PAYE, scientists would take home higher salaries.
While the proposal aims to strengthen Uganda’s scientific sector, it is expected to spark debate over tax equity, with questions arising about whether other professions could also demand similar exemptions.
Watch: Video Courtesy of UBC TV
He remarked this during the launch of Uganda’s first locally developed anti-tick vaccine in Wakiso District, where heemphasized the critical role scientists play in driving industrialisation and national development.
Museveni noted that taxing scientists could discourage innovation and limit the country’s ability to retain skilled professionals. He argued that scientists should instead be supported through incentives, including tax exemptions, to enable them to focus on research that directly contributes to economic growth.
The President’s proposal is rooted in a broader government strategy to prioritise science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of Uganda’s future economy. By removing PAYE, scientists would take home higher salaries.
While the proposal aims to strengthen Uganda’s scientific sector, it is expected to spark debate over tax equity, with questions arising about whether other professions could also demand similar exemptions.
Watch: Video Courtesy of UBC TV
