Uganda is reinforcing its position as a prime investment destination following high-level meetings between the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, the Head of State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema, and a delegation of investors from the United States and India.
Exploring Diverse Investment Opportunities
The meetings, held at SHIPU offices and the Office of the Prime Minister, focused on potential trade and investment avenues across sectors including agriculture, technology, housing, and finance.
Speaking on behalf of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Prime Minister Nabbanja welcomed the investors and underscored Uganda’s natural resources, political stability, and growing economy as compelling reasons to invest.
“Uganda is gifted by nature and peaceful, making it a very favorable country for investment, an agency in Dubai even named Uganda the most favorable investment destination,” she said.
Government Incentives to Attract Investors
Prime Minister Nabbanja outlined several incentives aimed at attracting foreign investment. These include a 10-year tax holiday, tax-free importation of value-addition machinery for local factories, and the full repatriation of profits.
She also emphasized Uganda’s young and energetic workforce and highlighted the country’s position within a 1.5 billion-strong African market, offering ready demand for value-added products such as coffee.
The Prime Minister encouraged investors to explore opportunities in tourism, information technology, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, citing Uganda’s ongoing industrialization and improved infrastructure, which contribute to a lower cost of doing business.
Investor Protection and Support
Col. Edith Nakalema reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to safeguarding investors and ensuring efficient support through SHIPU. Established in 2023, the unit coordinates with government agencies to resolve investor concerns promptly, promoting a predictable and secure business environment.
“Our role is to resolve investors’ concerns without unnecessary delays. Uganda’s Electronic Investors Protection Portal, which offers guidance, reporting mechanisms, and enforcement measures to protect investments from malpractice,” she highlighted.
She further emphasized Uganda’s recognition on the global stage. “Uganda was named the best investment destination in Africa at the 13th Global Annual Investment Meeting in Abu Dhabi. Oxford Economics ranked Uganda the most attractive economy in the EAC and third in Africa for investment. These accolades strengthen our commitment to investor confidence.”
Commitments from International Investors
The delegation expressed strong interest in supporting Uganda’s economic development. Dr. J. A. Chowdary, Chairman of the Blockchain Committee, Bureau of Indian Standards, announced plans to bring multiple global investors to Uganda and provide a pro-bono IT-powered traffic management system customized for local needs.
He also pledged to host a Global AI Conference in 2026, bringing 300 international AI leaders to Uganda.
Other investors shared their intentions to invest significantly across sectors. Dr. Siva Mahesh Tangutooru of IndBhoomi Agro Products, Africa, said his company plans to invest over USD 200 million in agro-processing, focusing on job creation for Ugandans.
Ravi Daparthi, Co-Founder of Signitives, USA, highlighted plans to support ICT and e-government initiatives, while Krishan Charan Singh confirmed commercial cultivation of lemon grass on 1,000 acres to support essential oils production.
Facilitating Seamless Investment Processes
Officials from the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) assured the delegation of full support in expediting investment processes.
“We are committed to a collaborative partnership with investors and will speed up all procedures to help you realize your opportunities,” said Peter Muramira of UIA.
A Promising Investment Future
The engagements underscore Uganda’s commitment to attracting and protecting foreign investments while leveraging public-private partnerships for sustainable economic growth.
By fostering trust, offering competitive incentives, and showcasing a rapidly developing economy, Uganda is positioning itself as a leading destination for global investors seeking long-term opportunities and impact.
