Uganda has the potential to significantly increase incomes and strengthen its economy through innovation, according to Joshua Isiko , Team Lead at the Productivity Acceleration Bureau.
Speaking during Spotlight Uganda hosted by Sanyuka Television on Wednesday under the theme “Innovating for Impact: Building Uganda's New Economy through Science, Technology & Innovation,” Isiko highlighted how innovation can transform everyday products into lucrative ventures.
“Our goal is to help Ugandans realize that innovation is possible everywhere. For example, even maize can generate significant income if it is processed. A farmer can earn up to Shs 50,000 from maize processing instead of just Shs 500,” he said.
Isiko emphasised that innovation is not limited to technology and business but extends to diverse fields, including medicine.
“Some people don’t fully understand what innovation means; it can even involve developing new forms of medicine,” he said.
Isiko also noted the value of leveraging Uganda’s coffee sector for economic growth.
“The President mentioned that through innovation, we can earn up to 40% more from coffee. That’s why we now have roasted coffee, and we can even produce Vaseline and perfumes from it,” he said.
Isiko added that a kilogram of coffee currently holds a value of around Shs 300,000 on the international market.
Highlighting other agricultural innovations, Isiko spoke about the transformation of traditional Ugandan crops.
“We grew up thinking matooke could only be eaten fresh, but now we have powdered matooke that can last much longer,” he said, illustrating how simple innovations can increase the shelf life and marketability of local products.
The Productivity Acceleration Bureau is actively promoting these initiatives, aiming to foster a culture where science, technology, and innovation drive economic development across Uganda.
“By embracing innovation in all sectors, Ugandans can generate higher incomes, create new jobs, and contribute to building a robust, self-sustaining economy,” Isiko said.