Uganda has intensified its drive to attract foreign investment in agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism, as government officials and private sector actors hosted a high-level Danish trade delegation in Kampala this week for talks focused on modernisation and sustainable economic growth.
The delegation, led by Jacob Kahl, Team Leader for Green Economy, Trade and Climate at the Embassy of Denmark in Uganda, brought together investors from major international firms, including the Danish Agriculture and Food Council and other organisations involved in climate-smart agriculture, energy, and vocational training.
The engagement, held at the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU) offices, centred on strengthening cooperation in agricultural modernisation, post-harvest handling systems, value addition, and green technology transfer aimed at boosting productivity across Uganda’s key economic sectors.
Col. Edith Nakalema, Head of SHIPU, said Uganda is seeking to tap into Denmark’s advanced agricultural technology and expertise to transform the country’s production systems and reduce post-harvest losses.
“Denmark is a global leader in agricultural technology, and we welcome your expertise in post-harvest handling, energy-efficient processing, and value addition,” she said.
She stressed that agriculture remains the backbone of Uganda’s economy and that government continues to prioritise its transformation through investment-friendly policies and improved coordination among public institutions.
Col. Nakalema also pointed to ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening investor confidence, including digital systems designed to streamline engagement between government and investors.
“We remain grateful to the strong confidence in Uganda’s thriving investment climate, further boosted by our seamless Electronic Investors Protection Portal (EIPP), that fosters greater inter-governmental connectivity, partnerships and inclusive economic growth,” she said.
She assured the delegation of full government backing, noting that investment facilitation is being coordinated across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to ensure efficiency and security of projects.
“Our commitment is collaboration, coordination, and the protection of all investments in the country,” she added.
The meeting brought together senior officials from key government institutions, including the National Planning Authority (NPA), Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Ministry of Education and Sports, Uganda Revenue Authority, Uganda Registration Services Bureau, Uganda Tourism Board, and the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority.
Officials from these agencies highlighted priority areas such as expanding wind energy integration, strengthening agricultural value chains, and improving local production of quality fish feeds as part of Uganda’s long-term development strategy.
Kahl said Danish companies are increasingly exploring opportunities in Uganda and across Africa, with a focus on long-term partnerships built on sustainability and shared growth.
“We are increasing engagement in the sector to strengthen cooperation, with a focus on mutual benefit and shared resource utilization,” he said.
He noted that climate change remains a key driver of Danish investment interest, particularly in agriculture and rural development initiatives that support resilient food systems.
“Climate change is a key challenge we are addressing, with agriculture at the heart of this cooperation focusing on value chains and rural development to support people-centered, impactful growth,” he said.
He added that many Danish firms are actively seeking entry into African markets, with Uganda emerging as a preferred destination due to its natural resources, strategic location, and growing consumer base.
In the tourism sector, Uganda Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Ms. Juliana Kagwa emphasized the country’s diverse investment and tourism potential, positioning Uganda as a destination for both leisure and business opportunities.
“Uganda is not just a destination it’s an experience. From the source of the Nile to breathtaking wildlife, we offer unmatched diversity and opportunity. With a young, vibrant population and a growing economy, Uganda presents immense potential for investment across sectors,” she said.
She added that Uganda values its continued partnership with Danish investors, describing their engagement as a sign of confidence in the country’s economic future.
“Uganda is proud to host resilient Danish partners, whose continued interest reflects confidence in the country’s future,” she said.
