President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni recently met with a delegation of over 80 Italian government officials, investors, business representatives, and development partners at State House, Entebbe. He emphasized the need for investments that promote local production, create jobs, and accelerate industrialization. The President highlighted Uganda and Italy's enormous potential to deepen their economic and diplomatic relations.
President Museveni noted that Africa's continued dependence on exporting raw and semi-processed materials denies the continent significant earnings, particularly in the agricultural and mineral sectors. He cited coffee as an example, where Uganda earns slightly more than $2 per kilogram of exported coffee, while fully processed coffee products fetch considerably higher prices in European markets.
The President welcomed Italian investors interested in establishing coffee processing factories in Uganda, saying the Government was ready to facilitate partnerships in the sector. He also invited Italian companies to partner with Uganda in manufacturing lithium batteries for electric vehicles, noting that the country had lithium deposits and was already pursuing electric vehicle manufacturing.
President Museveni emphasized that Africa and Europe had a natural opportunity to prosper together, citing Africa's geographical proximity to Europe, abundant natural resources, and rapidly expanding population. He noted that in the next 30 years, Africans would account for 25 percent of the world's population, representing a huge market that European leaders and investors should not ignore.
Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, said Uganda and Italy had continued to strengthen their cooperation following her visit to Rimini, Italy, in 2024. She noted that Italy had since reopened its development cooperation office in Uganda, which also serves Rwanda and Burundi, strengthening the framework for implementing development programs and providing grants, particularly in the health sector.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged Italy's support towards Uganda's coffee sector, revealing that the country had mobilized €120 million, with €60 million expected as the first installment. The European Union had separately pledged €44 million towards the same initiative, which would support efforts to improve coffee production, processing, and quality.
President Museveni urged the Italian business community to embrace mutually beneficial partnerships, pointing to the success of Chinese and Indian-owned factories operating in Uganda. He emphasized that investments using abundant raw materials, such as minerals, agriculture, freshwater, and human skills, presented opportunities for Uganda's economic growth.
Key points
- President Museveni calls on Italian investors to partner with Uganda in key sectors to promote local production and industrialization.
- Uganda and Italy strengthen cooperation in areas such as coffee development, waste management, healthcare, and agricultural mechanization.
- Italy pledges €120 million to support Uganda's coffee sector, with the European Union also contributing €44 million.
