The 6th edition of the Uganda Economic Forum opened at Next Media Park with a clarion call to mobilize long-term financing to accelerate agro-industrialisation, which is being positioned as the engine of Uganda’s economic transformation.
Bank of Uganda Governor Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego told delegates that the country’s ambitious tenfold growth strategy hinges on stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to channel resources into productive investments.
“To achieve our growth ambitions, we must mobilize long-term local financing to accelerate agro-industrialisation, which alone can generate at least $20 billion annually for our economy,” Atingi-Ego said.
He emphasized that Uganda’s macroeconomic fundamentals remain solid, with inflation contained below 5%, a stable shilling, and a reliable exchange rate supporting growth prospects.
Inflation held steady at 3.8 per cent in both July and August 2025, while the shilling strengthened against the US dollar for the fourth consecutive month.
Uganda’s economy continues to demonstrate resilience, with the government targeting a 7% growth rate for the current financial year, driven by a combination of government initiatives, private sector participation, and a buoyant agricultural sector.
Day One of the forum focused on agro-industrialisation as a blueprint for unlocking a GDP tenfold to $500 billion by 2040.
Discussions highlighted the need to reduce the size of the informal sector and tailor monetary policies to create a conducive environment for investment.
Agro-processors at the forum noted that inclusion remains a challenge, with concerns over the quality of inputs and participation of key stakeholders in driving the tenfold growth strategy.
Atingi-Ego also pointed to the expected start of oil exports within the financial year as a potential game-changer for Uganda’s trade balance and external revenues.
He reiterated that sustainable growth requires a combination of fiscal discipline, strategic investment, and innovative financing mechanisms.
The forum attracted policymakers, private sector players, and development partners, all exploring ways to align resources with Uganda’s ambitious economic vision, emphasizing that agro-industrialisation is key to achieving long-term prosperity.
