COL. NAKALEMA, NIGERIAN HIGH COMMISSIONER DISCUSS INVESTOR PROTECTION AND ECONOMIC COOPERATION

The Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema, has today met and held fruitful discussions with the Nigerian High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Ambassador John Shama Shaga. During the meeting at SHIPU offices in Kampala, Col. Nakalema and her guest engaged in a wide-ranging discussion that focused on boosting investor protection, enhancing bilateral cooperation as well as fostering a secure and enabling environment for Nigerian investors in Uganda. Col. Nakalema informed the Ambassador that her unit, established by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, is mandated to guide, safeguard, and support individuals and organizations contributing to Uganda’s economic transformation. “President Museveni, though retired, remains ever committed to fighting for national development. He established this unit to ensure that everyone adding value to Uganda is supported and protected,” Col. Nakalema noted, emphasizing that their role is to provide investors with direct access to relevant government ministries, departments, and agencies, cutting through bureaucratic red tape and eliminating middlemen. A key innovation driving this success was the launch of the Electronic Investors Protection Portal, a digital platform initiated by President Museveni to streamline investor-government engagements. Col. Nakalema explained how this user-friendly portal can be accessed from anywhere in the world using a smartphone, making it easier for investors to seek guidance, report fraud, and receive prompt support. “We have testimonies from Indian, Chinese, and Ugandan investors who have been helped. It’s a reliable and trusted platform,” she said. Ambassador Shaga acknowledged Uganda’s strides in creating a favorable investment climate and emphasized Nigeria’s long-standing relationship with Uganda, dating back to Pan-African solidarity during the anti-colonial struggles. “The trade relationship between our two countries has always been strong. From the fight against colonialism, Nigeria and Uganda have stood together,” he said. Recognizing the significance of SHIPU, Ambassador Shaga commended the unit’s unique mandate. “With ‘protection’ in the name, it means a lot. Your organization is putting mechanisms on the ground to ensure that investors are safeguarded,” he said, further citing existing frameworks like the Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement and the Economic Cooperation Agreement between the two countries as foundations upon which deeper engagement can be built. The Ambassador revealed that his mission has been actively collaborating with Uganda's Presidential Advisory Committee on Export and Investment Development (PACEID) and recently partnered with stakeholders to organize the Nigeria-Uganda Trade Dialogue. These efforts, he explained, are part of a broader strategy to position the two nations as strategic trade allies in Africa. Ambassador Shaga expressed growing Nigerian interest in Uganda’s gold industry, with several entrepreneurs exploring opportunities in gold refining. However, he also raised concerns about fraud, citing a case where a Nigerian investor lost $1 million to unscrupulous dealers in Uganda. “My former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, was in Kampala. During his visit, a Nigerian investor came to me and complained that he had been defrauded of $1 million,” Ambassador Shaga recounted. The incident, he said, underscored the need for more robust investor protection and better information sharing between the two governments. In response, Col. Nakalema acknowledged the unfortunate occurrence and assured the Ambassador of the Ugandan government’s commitment to accountability and justice. “The scandal should not discourage other Nigerian investors. Investigations are ongoing, and we are following up with the Criminal Investigations Directorate and other relevant agencies,” she said, reiterating President Museveni’s directive on curbing investor fraud and corruption. She further noted that Uganda has seen increased investor confidence over the past two years, largely due to efforts by SHIPU and the government’s anti-corruption measures. “Over 3,000 investors, more than 2,000 of them foreign, have accessed services through our portal,” she revealed. One of the most notable investments facilitated through the unit involves a foreign investor who has committed nearly $30 million in central Kampala properties, signaling the unit’s growing credibility and importance. Col. Nakalema was quick to highlight Uganda’s international accolades, citing prestigious rankings that underscore its emergence as a prime investment destination. She said for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024), Uganda was declared “Africa’s Best Investment Destination” by the Annual Investment Meeting in the UAE. The 2024 report by the Oxford School of Economics also named Uganda the most rewarding and profitable economy worldwide for investors. “Over $46 billion has flowed into Uganda through new and expanding investments, creating over 1.2 million jobs in just two years,” she noted proudly. Col. Nakalema also shared data showing that 28 Nigerian companies are currently operating in Uganda, contributing about $1.6 million in annual Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

2025-08-05

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI MEETS EGYPTIAN FOREIGN MINISTER

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday met and held talks with the Egyptian delegation led by the Foreign Minister, Dr. Badr Abdelatty. During the meeting that took place at State House Entebbe, the Foreign Minister conveyed greetings from Egyptian President H.E Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. He also called for the formation of a joint Egyptian-Ugandan business council to boost investment in sectors like construction, energy, and pharmaceuticals. Dr. Badr pointed out the potential for joint projects through a financing mechanism recently established by Egypt to support development in southern Nile Basin countries. “It’s a great honor and pleasure to be here to convey the best wishes from your brother President Abdel Fattah who is looking forward to discussing with you and hopefully have a business forum where the business community can explore the existing opportunities for investment and mutual benefits,” he said. He added that his government values President Museveni’s wise leadership as well as his vision for Africa especially on Pan-Africanism and South-South cooperation. The meeting also reflected on enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries by encouraging more investments in different sectors including energy, security as well as digitalization. Dr. Badr also saluted President Museveni and Uganda in general for its role in peace keeping missions in Somalia and other countries in Africa. President Museveni and the Egyptian delegation also discussed Egypt’s existential concerns over its water security and ways to boost bilateral ties, among other things. In this regard, President Museveni emphasized the importance of preserving the African waters. The meeting was also attended by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Okello Oryem, Minister of State for Environment, Hon. Beatrice Anywar, among others.

2025-08-05

WOBULENZI MARKET VENDORS TIPPED ON IMPROVING THEIR LIVELIHOODS AS PRESIDENT MUSEVENI OFFERS FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Market vendors in Wobulenzi Town Council, Luweero District have been urged to focus on improving their livelihoods through engaging in income generating enterprises. The appeal was made yesterday as State House officials led by the Senior Presidential Advisor-Elderly, Princess Pauline Nassolo and the Special Presidential Assistant in charge of Women Affairs, Ms. Flora Kabibi delivered President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s business booster package to vendors in Movit and Bimbo Markets. Each of the 82 vendors received Shs100,000. “Let's not be divided by politics. Let's work together so that we can achieve our common goal of improving our livelihoods,” Princess Nassolo said. Princess Nassolo informed the vendors that President Museveni decided to support them directly so that they can grow their businesses and stabilize their household income. “H.E the President is aware that you never benefited from Emyooga and also some of you are yet to receive the Parish Development Model (PDM) funds. So, he decided to send you this support as you wait to benefit from other government programs,” she noted. “This money is not for buying meat or buying clothes, it's meant to be added into your businesses to improve them.” Princess Nassolo however explained that some people were not benefiting from the various government poverty alleviation programs because they voted for wrong leaders [the opposition]. “Please vote for the right leaders who take your interests as a priority for effective service delivery,” she said. She further appealed to the vendors to continue supporting President Museveni because he is a visionary leader who cares about their socio-economic transformation. On her part, Ms. Kabibi informed the vendors that after a successful enhancement of Uganda’s infrastructure, the President is now focusing on improving the household incomes of all Ugandans. “This support may be little, but it has a big impact if wisely utilized,” she said. “Vote for President Museveni and the NRM government in the upcoming elections for more development.” Hajji Abubaker Kalume, the NRM flag bearer for Katikamu South Parliamentary seat thanked President Museveni for the financial support to ordinary Ugandans such as the vendors. He also called upon the vendors to reciprocate President Museveni’s good gesture by voting for him and the NRM government back to power in the 2026 general elections. The vendors expressed gratitude to President Museveni for the financial support, assuring him that they will utilise the funds well to improve their household income. The Chairperson of Movit Market, Ms. Nakidde Robinah commended the President for empowering them financially. “We thank you, Your Excellency, for this additional capital to our businesses. On behalf of my fellow vendors, we promise to use this money well to grow our businesses,” she said. “The team you sent to us from the State House has delivered the package well.” Another vendor, Ms. Nalumansi Hanifah, who deals in onions, assured the team that she will inject the additional capital from the President into her business. Another vendor, Ms. Coster Namutebi, who says she took part in the liberation struggle of 1981-1986 that brought the NRM government into power, was also thankful to President Museveni for always working for the people. “Your Excellency, I took part in the war, and I was part of the bush war fighters at Kiwanguzi and Kileku. Thank you for the support, Your Excellency,” said Ms. Namutebi who sells vegetables.

2025-08-03

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HAILED FOR GAME-CHANGING SKILLING INITIATIVE

A total of 4,560 youth and women have been admitted to the 19 Presidential Industrial Hubs across the country for a six-month vocational training programme that commenced on 1st August, 2025. According to the Director of Presidential Projects and Industrial Hubs, Eng. Raymond Kamugisha, the trainees will undergo intensive hands-on training in various disciplines such as tailoring, hairdressing, carpentry, and leather designing. Upon completion, they will be awarded certificates equivalent to Uganda Certificate of Education and given startup capital to help them put their acquired skills to use in their communities. “It is our vision to empower these young people with practical skills that can transform their lives and communities. Plans are also underway to establish a TVET University where graduates from vocational institutions can further their studies and acquire diplomas and degrees without going through the conventional formal education system,” Eng. Kamugisha revealed. At Bukedi Presidential Industrial Hub in Kibuku District, 240 trainees reported for this year’s second intake, arriving with personal belongings ready to embark on the six-month course. The hub’s manager, Ms. Teddy Ouma, said since inception, this is the fourth intake, and the programme has already transformed the lives of many beneficiaries. “This is a life-changing opportunity for the trainees. Besides vocational courses, the hub is also implementing President Museveni’s Four Acre Model, equipping students with agricultural skills to boost household income,” Ms. Ouma said. Kibuku Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr. Samuel Musiho highlighted the importance of the Four Acre Model in empowering learners to become self-reliant. Since the inception of the Presidential Industrial Hubs initiative three years ago, a total of 15,480 youths and women have been trained in different vocational skills countrywide. At Mengo Zonal Presidential Industrial Hub in Kayunga District, the fifth intake of learners was also received with enthusiasm. Leaders and stakeholders praised President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the initiative, describing it as a critical tool in the fight against poverty and unemployment. Butebo District LCV Chairperson, Mr. James Okurut and Commercial Officer Mr. Joseph Karyebi both commended the programme for empowering vulnerable groups and creating opportunities for self-employment. Mr. Ahamada Ziyinda Musoke, Manager of Mengo Zonal Presidential Industrial Hub, noted that the facilities have become centres of hope for many youths who previously lacked opportunities for practical education. As the new intake begins, Eng. Kamugisha reaffirmed the government's commitment to expanding vocational education and creating pathways for graduates to progress academically and economically.

2025-08-02

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI APPROVES LOCAL MANUFACTURING OF PREPAID WATER METERS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today endorsed the establishment of a prepaid water meter manufacturing plant in Uganda — a significant step towards enhancing the country’s water access, conservation, and utility efficiency. The President met with a delegation from Helcraw Electrical Pvt Ltd, a Zimbabwean company in partnership with Liaison Technologies, a Chinese firm specializing in prepaid water metering systems. The delegation was led by Mr. Brendon Jere, Director of Helcraw Electrical, who presented the proposal to set up a local factory to manufacture prepaid water meters in Uganda. Mr. Jere explained that their operations in Zimbabwe have already had a transformative impact on water access, enabling utility companies to improve revenue collection while promoting responsible usage. He emphasized that prepaid water meters allow consumers to pay only for the water they use, fostering accountability, fairness, and conservation. “The same model has worked in Zimbabwe and significantly improved access to water. We believe Uganda will benefit even more with localized production,” said Mr. Jere. President Museveni welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and aligned with Uganda’s national priorities of industrialization, job creation, and access to essential services. He praised the project’s potential to improve livelihoods in both urban and rural areas by ensuring affordable, reliable access to clean water. “This is a good idea. It will help our people access clean water while also creating jobs and supporting our industrial growth,” President Museveni stated. To fast-track the project, the President directed Hon. Haruna Kasolo, Minister of State for Microfinance, to work with the relevant authorities to ensure the investors are granted the necessary licenses and allocated suitable land for the factory. The development comes at a time when Uganda is working to expand its manufacturing capacity, boost local content, and improve service delivery in key sectors like water and energy. Prepaid water metering is widely viewed as a transformative solution for ensuring efficient water use, improving utility revenue, and enhancing equitable water access. In the same meeting, President Museveni also endorsed a proposal by Shapoorji Pallonji & Company Pvt Ltd to establish an integrated bulk water supply system for irrigation in the Teso region. He underscored the critical role of irrigation in agricultural productivity and water availability, stating: “For me, irrigation is a top priority, and I shall support it.” The prepaid water meter factory is expected to serve not only Uganda but the entire East African region, positioning the country as a regional hub for smart water management technologies and contributing to sustainable development goals.

2025-08-01

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI WANTS HOTEL TAXES RECONSIDERED TO BOOST TOURISM

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Tuesday 29th July 2025 came out strongly against the taxation of hotels, saying the tourism sector is an export industry that should not be burdened with domestic-style taxes. Meeting a delegation from the Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) at State House Entebbe, the President expressed concern upon learning that hotels which he called the backbone of tourism were being taxed similarly to local consumer businesses. “Tourism is an export business because tourism is like the exports, it's not an import, it’s an export,” the President said. “You are exporting a service, like we are exporting milk. Me, I am a man of milk as you know, so our milk is going out and other products. And we don’t tax exports. So, this taxing of hotels the way you are talking about is really not correct.” He added that he had not been aware of the current tax burdens affecting hotels. “I was not aware that you are being taxed like that because this is an export. Mainly, it’s actually an export. So that’s number one,” he said. The President also took aim at the way tourism businesses are being financed, arguing that the sector should not be expected to operate on commercial loans. “Because it’s an export, it should not be relying on money from commercial banks for business, it should be relying on UDB, just like factories,” he said. “If factories don’t borrow from commercial banks, why do you want tourism businesses to borrow from commercial banks? How will they succeed? It’s not correct, you should be dealing with UDB. I am going to take up all those because those are policy issues, they are not money issues. It’s a matter of proper understanding and classification.” The meeting followed a request from UTA President Ms. Yogi Biriggwa, who appealed for structured support, including direct funding of Shs 800 million per year for the next three years to strengthen the association’s Secretariat and implement priority reforms. “We respectfully request Shs 800 million annually for the next three years to strengthen the UTA Secretariat and implement priority institutional interventions,” she said. “This funding will enable UTA to play its rightful role as the coordinating and unifying voice of the private sector in tourism, aligned with the aspirations of the National Development Plan IV and Uganda’s goal of reaching USD 4 billion in annual tourism receipts by 2030.” The President welcomed the proposal and promised to take action. “I will read the whole document and give orders in writing,” he said. Ms. Biriggwa also presented a sector snapshot, noting that Uganda’s tourism industry is rebounding strongly following the COVID-19 shock, thanks to what she described as deliberate efforts by the President, the Government, and the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities. According to figures cited in the FY2025/26 Budget Speech, tourism earnings grew by 13.1% to $ 1.52 billion in the 12 months to March 2025. She said that Tourist arrivals rose by 7.7% to 1.37 million, while domestic visits to national parks increased by 15.7%. Uganda now ranks 7th in Africa for MICE tourism, boosted by investments such as the new Speke Resort Convention Centre. Despite this progress, she warned that deeper structural constraints are holding the industry back, particularly access to affordable finance. “Commercial interest rates range from 20% to 25%, and even government-supported lenders such as UDB and Microfinance Support Centre offer rates between 12% and 16%, which remain too high,” she explained. According to UTA’s findings, tourism receives just 3% of all private sector credit, and in 2023, the sector received only Shs 16.84 bn, just 1.3% of Uganda Development Bank’s Shs 610bn in disbursements. Noting that the non-performing loan rate in the tourism sector, as of May 2024, stood at 12.1%, more than double the national average. On public funding, Ms. Biriggwa acknowledged a significant increase, from Shs 289.6bn in FY2024/25 to Shs 430bn in FY2025/26, along with Shs 2.2 trillion earmarked for supportive infrastructure such as roads, ICT, and security. However, she argued that tourism still receives less than 1% of the total national budget, despite contributing about 5% to GDP. To match the sector’s economic weight, UTA proposed that direct funding be raised to at least 1% of the national budget, a shift that would support destination marketing, product development, quality assurance, and skilling. In response to the call for improved connectivity to high-value destinations, President Museveni noted that infrastructure development is ongoing particularly in air transport. “I know the airports like at Kidepo we are working with the government of Sharjah. We are building an airport there. In Kihihi, in the western side. Then for Murchison Falls, there is an airstrip at Kakuba that can be developed. Even Mweya, there is an airstrip, but it’s not an international Airport,” he said. “These tourists, they reach and need where they can land directly. With our own money, we shall develop that infrastructure, Kasese, Arua, Kayonza, Kihihi, and Kidepo.” As the meeting concluded, the President committed to reviewing the UTA’s recommendations and addressing the broader policy gaps. “I am going to take up all those because those are policy issues. Tourism is an export, and we should treat it that way.” The meeting was also attended by Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities.

2025-07-30