Simba Automotives illustrates case of supporting local companies

The case for investing in local production capacity is getting stronger every year.

For a company that has been in operation since 2014, one would think they are a little too ambitious to want to manufacture them right here in Uganda.

But are they, considering that most of the motorbikes in Uganda are imported meaning repatriation of funds?

In 2014 alone, motorcycle imports were valued at $58 million with Uganda ranking among the top 40% of global importers.

But rather than ship them in, why not make them at home?

Simba Automotives is proud to be a Ugandan-owned company that has grown with the nation through its ups and downs.

In the few years, it has been operational, it has managed to set its agenda straight by prioritising the Ugandans. They have created job opportunities for youth through their cost-effective motorbikes.

In 2017 Simba Automotives made the bold decision to start assembling motorbikes in Uganda and dubbed it UG Boss, a flagship brand that is durable and more affordable compared to other sellers in the country.

The first motorbike assembly plant is a milestone that is trying to cut back on imported motorbikes in Uganda.

It's common knowledge that motorcycles are very important in Uganda as they offer a cheaper and more convenient way to dodge the never-ending traffic as well as navigate hard-to-reach places, which explains the clientele that Simba Automotives attracts.

Boda riders, SACCOs, district local government members are some of the groups that seek the UG Boss motorcycles.

They also employ a big chunk of the young population.

Currently, Simba Automotives employs more than 400 staff who work at the different regional and district branches countrywide.

They work with reliable financial institutions to make ownership of their motorbikes possible to whoever wants to own one.

Simba Automotives is not only seeking commercial success but also intends to make a sustainable contribution to economic development in Uganda.

Among other things, the brand is creating jobs, creating revenue sources as well as protect the environment.

As opposed to just selling the motorbike to you, we go through extensive factory training so that we may provide you with the knowledge you need to make an educated decision in choosing the motorcycle that is right for your lifestyle.

"We believe that Africa as a continent is developing at a rapid pace and becoming a world-class place to be in. Hence, the natives need to enjoy affordable world-class products. Operations of Simba Automotives is primarily based on socio-economic responsibility thus having core impact on life of local natives," said Paresh Shukla, the managing director, Simba Automotives.

Well, none of this would be possible if not for the unwavering support of the President, Yoweri Museveni.

As a great patriot and vision bearer for a better Uganda, he has believed in Simba Automotives and many businesses especially those that add value to their products.

Corporate companies, non-government organisations, and various individuals continue to support us and we do not take this for granted.

For us to take Uganda to middle-income status, we need to believe in and support locally manufactured products.