AWAZA PROGRAMME OF ACTION FOR THE LANDLOCKED DEVELOPING COUNTRIES FOR THE DECADE 2024–2034 (APOA)
On 24th December, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly under resolution A/ RES/79/233 adopted the Awaza Programme of Action (APoA) for the Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) for the Decade 2024–2034. The APoA represents a renewed and strengthened global commitment to support the development aspirations of the 32 LLDCs. Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) involves 32 nations globally, with the majority located in Africa and 16 of which, are classified as Least Developed Countries. It emphasizes regional integration, infrastructure development, trade facilitation, digital connectivity, and resilience-building to promote sustainable growth.
Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) have continued to face hurdles in trade, connectivity, and development causing higher trade costs and delays. There is lack direct access to the sea, making them geographically disadvantaged in terms of trade and development and often face higher transportation costs and longer transit times for imports and exports, impacting their economic growth and overall development. According to the Study by United Nations, the Cost of being landlockedness negatively impacts export trade of LLDCs on key transport indicators by 18% and Human development index by 19%.
The expected outcomes of implementing the ApoA, include increased economic growth, diversification away from commodities, greater participation in global trade, and enhanced resilience to climate shocks. Key actions involve reducing trade barriers, investing in infrastructure, promoting technological innovation, and mobilizing financial and other support. For Uganda, a prominent LLDC in East Africa, the APoA presents significant opportunities, particularly in boosting export-led growth and regional connectivity. Uganda can capitalize on investments in the Northern Corridor and Central Corridor infrastructure projects, enhancing access to ports in Kenya and Tanzania, which could reduce logistics costs by up to 30% and increase agricultural exports like coffee and tea. Additionally, opportunities in digital trade and value-added processing—such as agro-industrialization and mineral beneficiation—align with Uganda's Vision 2040, enabling job creation, technology transfer, and sustainable development goals, while partnerships with international donors could mobilize funding for climate-resilient infrastructure.