Museveni Vows Partnership for Kenya's Infrastructure Growth

President Museveni Encourages Investment in Uganda’s Infrastructure and Economic Growth

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni recently met with a delegation from Rebel Group, an international consultancy and investment firm based in Nairobi, Kenya. During the meeting at State House in Entebbe, the President expressed confidence in Uganda’s readiness to collaborate with investors on major infrastructure projects, emphasizing the country's long-term economic potential.

The group was led by Mr. Kyle McCarter, a former U.S. Ambassador to Kenya. In his address, President Museveni highlighted the importance of infrastructure development, particularly in key areas such as the Kampala–Bombo road tollway and the Mpigi bridge. He explained that these projects are directly tied to market demand and consumer activity, making them sustainable investments.

“Once consumers are present, the flow of money remains consistent. This is why such investments are not only viable but also essential for creating jobs, increasing income, and stimulating further economic activity,” he said during the meeting on August 22.

The President also reflected on Uganda’s post-independence challenges, acknowledging past policy decisions that had deterred private investment. He specifically mentioned the expulsion of Asians under the regime of Idi Amin and the confiscation of private property, which he described as strategic mistakes that hindered economic growth.

“We lost a significant amount of time after independence due to policies that were not favorable to the private sector. Confiscating private property was a critical error,” he stated. However, he emphasized that since taking leadership in the 1980s, his government has focused on learning from past mistakes and promoting true independence through wealth creation.

“The goal is to ensure that we do not depend on others. True independence comes from generating wealth, and this requires a strong commitment to economic development,” he added.

Four Pillars of Uganda’s Economic Transformation

President Museveni outlined Uganda’s economic transformation agenda, which is built on four key pillars of wealth creation. The first is commercial agriculture, where land must be used productively beyond subsistence farming. The second pillar focuses on manufacturing, aiming to add value to raw materials like coffee, cotton, copper, and timber.

The third pillar involves the services sector, including tourism, hospitality, and entertainment. Finally, the fourth pillar emphasizes the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in driving economic growth. The President stressed that everyone, whether as an owner or employee, should contribute to producing goods or services, forming the foundation of wealth creation.

Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Regional Trade

Infrastructure investment plays a crucial role in unlocking regional trade, especially within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). President Museveni encouraged investors to consider Africa seriously, noting that countries like China have already recognized the continent’s potential and are investing heavily.

“Uganda’s roads connecting to Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo will benefit not just Uganda but the entire region. This is where the real opportunities lie,” he said.

Mr. Prashiv Shah, a financial consultant with Rebel Group, welcomed the President’s insights and expressed the firm’s interest in investing in Uganda. He noted that while the group is currently involved in infrastructure and real estate development in Kenya, they are open to exploring other sectors in Uganda.

“We fully support the President’s vision and are eager to explore new investment opportunities here. This is an exciting time for building partnerships, and we are pleased to have met with him,” Shah said.

President Museveni’s message to investors underscores Uganda’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and leveraging its strategic position in East Africa to drive sustainable economic growth.