Uganda’s drive toward inclusive and sustainable industrialisation has received a significant boost following the signing of a €1.7 million (approximately Shs 6.8 billion) cooperation agreement between the Government of Uganda and the Government of Italy.
The agreement, signed by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Francis Mwebesa, and representatives of the Italian Government through the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), seeks to strengthen Uganda’s private sector by enhancing institutional capacity, supporting selected value chains, and fostering international partnerships.
The funding will support the implementation of a new initiative titled “Strengthening of the Private Sector through the Development of Institutional Capacities and the Building of International Partnerships in Uganda.”
The project aims to equip local enterprises with the tools, skills, and linkages necessary to improve competitiveness, create jobs, and contribute more meaningfully to national development.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Mwebesa welcomed the support from the Italian Government and UNIDO, describing it as a timely intervention that aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the Third National Development Plan (NDP III), which prioritise industrialisation and private sector-led growth.
“This partnership will play a crucial role in transforming our private sector into a more competitive, innovative, and sustainable engine of growth. It will also help strengthen collaboration between government institutions, industry associations, and international partners,”said Mwebesa.
A key component of the project is the establishment of the Confederation of Uganda Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CUCCI) — a new umbrella platform that will unite all industry associations and chambers of commerce under a single, coherent voice. The Confederation will serve as a bridge between the government, private sector, and international stakeholders, promoting policy dialogue and facilitating trade and investment opportunities.
UNIDO’s representative in Uganda emphasized that the project is designed to empower local enterprises, particularly small and medium-sized businesses, to participate effectively in regional and global value chains.
“Through this collaboration, we aim to strengthen Uganda’s institutional frameworks and build capacities that will sustain industrial growth and inclusive economic transformation,”the UNIDO representative noted.
The Italian Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Uganda’s industrial agenda and fostering long-term partnerships that drive mutual economic benefits.
The initiative is expected to enhance Uganda’s ability to attract foreign investment, improve access to international markets, and accelerate progress toward sustainable development
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is the specialized agency of the UN that promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization, and environmental sustainability.