Ezra Muhumuza Rubanda, Executive Director of the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), has called for locally driven economic strategies as the foundation for Uganda’s industrial and national transformation.
Speaking on NBS Television’s Spotlight Uganda programme on Monday, Rubanda stressed that the country must prioritise using its own resources to fuel industrial growth instead of relying heavily on foreign aid.
The remarks were made during the inaugural National Dialogue on Trade and Industrial Growth, held under the theme, “Advancing Trade and Industrial Growth for Uganda’s Transformation.”
The event brought together government officials, private sector leaders, and development partners to explore pathways for sustainable economic progress.
Rubanda highlighted that Uganda’s projected tenfold economic expansion will hinge on agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral beneficiation, and science, technology, and innovation.
He called for strategic prioritisation and prudent use of limited domestic financial resources.
“There is no money. We must find a way of using the little money that we have. No economy has accelerated and taken off using foreign money. I should be on record on this,” he said.
He also underscored the role of industry in improving livelihoods at the household level, noting that strategic investment in agro-processing has contributed to food security across Uganda.
“The first role of industry is measured at micro level, which is household level. When did we last have famine in this country? The government directed the economy into agro-processing units and that’s why we have food in this country,” Rubanda said.
Rubanda further urged Ugandans to reflect on the country’s historical context and current economic realities, emphasising resource sovereignty and the importance of value addition.
“The colonialists didn’t come here to look at how beautiful we are. They came here for our resources. Ask yourself — has this urge stopped?” he said.
The dialogue stressed the need for a coordinated national effort to strengthen local industries, boost export competitiveness, and promote value addition.
Organisers reiterated that Uganda’s long-term prosperity will depend on domestic capital mobilisation, innovation, and strong government-private sector partnerships.
The Uganda Manufacturers Association represents the interests of industrialists and manufacturers in the country and promotes sustainable industrial development through advocacy, capacity building, and collaboration with both public and private stakeholders.
