Every solution begins with understanding the problem

Good medical doctors always insist they will not prescribe medication until they are sure they have diagnosed and identified the problem. The tests and consultations involved are sometimes expensive in time and money.

Similarly challenges in other areas of human endeavor should be correctly analyzed before solutions are presented. This takes time, money and above all patience.

As I read and hear commentators about developments in Uganda and the Great Lakes region, I am impressed by the depth of analysis and understanding of issues. For example:

1. People are correctly saying that economic growth is necessary but not sufficient condition for social development;

2. They are saying that rapid economic growth that destroys the environment is not sustainable;

3. They are saying that focus on urban development at the expense of the countryside will create more problems than solutions;

4. They are saying that without educating girls and empowering women and controlling immigrants into Uganda it will be difficult to reduce population growth;

5. They are saying that export of raw materials however diversified in commodities and markets will not generate enough foreign exchange earnings, keeping Uganda dependent on donations with strings attached;