In a strong signal of Uganda’s growing appeal as a destination for international investment, Col. Edith Nakalema, Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU) has welcomed top executives from Japanese automobile dealer Yoshino Motors as the company explores plans to expand operations in the country.
Yoshino Motors, which specializes in importing, re-exporting, and trading high-quality Japanese cars, has operated in Uganda for 13 years—creating over 50 jobs and contributing to the local automotive sector.
During a high-level meeting held at SHIPU offices in Kampala, Col. Nakalema met with Yoshino Motors’ Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Shunsuke Nakanishi, and Uganda Managing Director, Mr. Abas Ali. She commended the company for its commitment to Uganda and emphasized government’s continued support for legitimate investors.
“We are happy and honored to receive the CEO of Yoshino, a reputable group of companies from Japan. Africa—and Uganda in particular—still holds immense potential for companies like yours to grow,” said Col. Nakalema.
She reaffirmed government’s investor protection commitment, citing SHIPU’s Uganda Electronic Investors Protection Portal, developed in collaboration with the National Information Technology Authority (NITA-U).
The portal offers verified access to essential government services—eliminating the need for illegal middlemen, a challenge President Yoweri Museveni has consistently worked to address.
“The president guided that we use digital platforms to eliminate wrong elements—the so-called middlemen. You’ll find all key institutions like the Uganda Revenue Authority, Uganda Registration Services Bureau, and Uganda Investment Authority in one place,” she explained.
Col. Nakalema also encouraged Yoshino Motors to diversify into other sectors beyond the automobile business and applauded the company’s legacy. Founded in 1959 by Mr. Nakanishi’s grandfather, Yoshino Motors represents a culture of long-term, intergenerational investment.
“In Japan and India, investments founded by grandfathers are still growing through their children and grandchildren. That’s a great lesson—we must ensure our children continue adding value through what we build today,” she said.
She added that the government remains committed to supporting value-adding investors by developing critical infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and telecommunications—key enablers of industrial growth.
In his remarks, Mr. Nakanishi expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reiterated his confidence in Uganda’s economic future.
“Thirteen years ago, we chose to invest in Uganda. From our view, Africa—especially Uganda—is a growing market with many attractive features. We are ready to increase our investment here,” he said.
He also praised Uganda’s digitized investment systems and revealed the company’s interest in exploring ventures in vehicle production, parts manufacturing, and strategic local partnerships.
The meeting was also attended by Acting Executive Director of the National Forestry Authority (NFA), Mr. Stuart Maniraguha, who proposed a collaboration with Yoshino Motors to supply wood materials for car interiors—potentially opening new local manufacturing opportunities.
“Some of your vehicles use wood for interiors. Uganda can provide that material locally—you don’t even need to carry it abroad. You can manufacture vehicles right here,” he said.
Mr. Maniraguha also urged Yoshino to continue advancing hybrid and energy-efficient vehicles to align with global efforts to combat climate change.
“Reducing emissions is critical. We’re encouraged by your progress with hybrids and we pledge our full support from the forestry sector,” he noted.
Col. Nakalema further highlighted Uganda’s improved investment rankings, noting accolades from international institutions. These include recognition by the Oxford School of Economics, which ranked Uganda as the third most attractive global investment destination, and two consecutive honors from the Annual Investment Meeting in Abu Dhabi, naming Uganda the most rewarding and most stable economy in Africa in 2023 and 2024.
She emphasized Uganda’s strategic strengths as the “three Ps”: Peaceful, Pleasant, and Profitable.
“We continue to give confidence to our investors. The government has created an environment where you are protected, where infrastructure supports your business, and where value addition is a national priority,” she said.
In conclusion, Col. Nakalema reaffirmed Uganda’s open-door policy to credible investors and extended appreciation to the Japanese business delegation for their trust.
“Investor protection remains a top priority for His Excellency, the President of Uganda. This office—the State House Investors Protection Unit—is open full time. You are always welcome,” she said.
As Uganda strengthens its reputation as a reliable, transparent, and profitable investment hub, such engagements signal a promising outlook for deeper international partnerships.