Unlocking Uganda's Economic Potential: Insights from the launch of the 4th Edition of the UG Economic Forum - 2024
Dokoria Denis, Head of Public Relations at Uganda Development Corporation (UDC), focused on the importance of agro-processing, which constitutes over 60% of UDC’s investment portfolio. "As an agro-based economy, Uganda’s future lies in unlocking the potential of agro-processing."
The 4th Edition of the UG Economic Forum - 2024 was launched today at Next Media Park, drawing a diverse group of industry experts, policymakers, and business leaders to discuss strategies for sustainable growth and development in Uganda.
The forum, themed "Unlocking Uganda's Economic Potential: Strategies for Sustainable Growth and Development," focuses on addressing critical economic issues and identifying actionable solutions to propel Uganda’s economy forward.
Joe Kigozi, Deputy Group CEO of Next Media, set the tone for the forum by highlighting the crucial role of universities in driving innovative thinking and the media’s responsibility in disseminating critical information. "Our goal is to deploy all our assets to ensure these conversations reach every Ugandan."
The forum will address a range of pressing issues, including the consequences of various fiscal and monetary policies and how to mitigate negative effects while maintaining macroeconomic stability. It also explores alternative measures for economic growth, such as targeted investments, tax breaks, and monetary relaxation, while assessing the impact of international commerce on economic growth and strategies to enhance global competitiveness. Additionally, the forum promotes stakeholder collaboration to ensure long-term economic development by sharing ideas and coordinating policies among policymakers, the private sector, and academics.
Industry leaders at the launch offered valuable insights into Uganda's economic challenges and opportunities. Adu Rando, Country Director at NileBreweries Limited, emphasized the need for efficiency and the creation of a conducive business environment to attract investment in Uganda. "As we look to accelerate Uganda’s growth, we must ensure that our business environment is competitive, similar to that of developed countries."
Dokoria Denis, Head of Public Relations at Uganda Development Corporation (UDC), focused on the importance of agro-processing, which constitutes over 60% of UDC’s investment portfolio. "As an agro-based economy, Uganda’s future lies in unlocking the potential of agro-processing."
Apollo Munghinda, Principal Communications Officer at the Ministry of Finance, shared an optimistic outlook on Uganda’s economic future. "We’re confident that the economy will grow from 7% in the medium term to over 10% in the next 15 years. Our focus should be on how to leverage the opportunities presented by government initiatives."
The discussions at the 4th Edition of the UG Economic Forum set to happen from September 16th to 23rd, will underscore the need for a collective approach to unlocking Uganda’s economic potential. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders and exploring innovative solutions, the forum aims to create a roadmap for sustainable growth and development in Uganda.