“We want to see a society where people are able to get jobs that enhance the dignity of all individuals and allow them to provide for their families and create self-reliant individuals.” — H.E. YOWERI KAGUTA MUSEVENI
As a Ugandan with a strong belief in my country’s potential, I view investment; both domestic and international as a crucial lever to accelerate industrialisation, elevate value addition, create sustainable jobs, and foster inclusive growth. Uganda is at a promising juncture of economic transformation. The nation’s appeal lies not only in its rich resources and youthful demographic but also in its bold, strategic policymaking aimed at diversifying the economy and adding value across various sectors.
The government’s long-term vision, which is anchored in the National Development Plan IV (2025–2030) and Vision 2040, centres on “Sustainable Industrialisation for Inclusive Growth, Employment, and Wealth Creation.” The plan aims for a tenfold economic expansion to $500 billion by 2040 and double-digit growth by 2029/30.
The government is prioritising investment and industrialisation in several key sectors, however; let me point you to some of the most strategic Investment Sectors in Uganda today;
First and foremost; Agriculture, known as the back bone of Uganda, this sector employs over 70% of the population and contributes roughly one-third of the GDP, under this sector, the focus is on value addition to our crops, such as; coffee, tea, fruits, maize, and oilseeds. Investment opportunities are plentiful in processing, cold storage, packaging, mechanisation, and manufacturing inputs such as improved seeds and fertilisers.
In addition to agriculture, Uganda is rich in mineral resources, including gold, rare earths, limestone, and copper. The government is enforcing value addition by discouraging raw exports and facilitating domestic processing with initiatives such as a state-owned mining company and gold smelting hubs in Mubende and Busia.
On top of this, Uganda is forging a petrochemical future with projects such as the Kabalega Petrochemical Industrial Park, which will house a refinery, petrochemical units, and fertiliser factories in Hoima. There is also a planned oil refinery in partnership with a UAE investor.
The Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) has operationalised multiple industrial parks across the country to attract manufacturing in sectors like steel, cement, agro-processing, electronics, and automotive. Projects such as the Kiira Motors EV factory underscore the shift from assembly to full-scale manufacturing.
Leveraging Uganda’s rich biodiversity and landscapes, the government is also encouraging eco-tourism, luxury lodges, and infrastructure development, including a third international airport near Kidepo Valley National Park to boost access and visitor arrivals.
Furthermore, Uganda is expanding its energy mix with hydropower, solar, biomass, and energy storage. Landmark projects include new hydropower plants adding 1,600 MW and solar power initiatives like the Xsabo Lira (50 MW) and Ituka solar plant (24 MW). Infrastructure enhancements also cover railways, such as the Standard Gauge Railway linking to Mombasa, which is financed through an $800 million deal with the Islamic Development Bank.
Finally, the digital economy is a strategic pillar, with ICT contributing nearly 9% of GDP. Uganda is nurturing startups in fintech, e-commerce, and health tech, which are supported by tech parks, tax incentives, and innovation hubs.
I strongly believe that supporting these prioritised sectors is vital. Investments that push value addition, turning raw materials into finished goods, will ensure that Uganda captures more economic benefit from its resources and builds robust industries. Emphasising local manufacturing, agro-processing, and renewable energy not only creates employment but can also reduce import dependency and nurture local supply chains.
Prioritising clean energy, green tourism, and tech-driven solutions aligns with global trends and positions Uganda for long-term resilience.
Uganda’s policies are crafted to welcome both Ugandan and foreign investors, especially those who bring capital, technology, and market access. I believe well-structured public-private partnerships, anchored in value addition, can help Uganda accelerate its development stages and retain economic rewards domestically. Investment in energy, transport (railways, airports), and industrial parks is foundational. I would encourage Ugandans to put emphasis on these enablers, as they create environments where industry can flourish.
In my view, the time is right for both Ugandans and foreign investors to engage, particularly in ventures that emphasise value addition, sustainability, and local capacity building. These are not just economic opportunities; they are steps toward a more self-reliant and prosperous Uganda.
By Martha Kyosimire, Communications Officer, GCIC
