Bahati Urges Businesses to Drive Uganda’s Economic Transformation

What the report says

Uganda’s State Minister for Trade, David Bahati, has called on the business community to place greater emphasis on innovation, product quality and customer satisfaction as the private sector expands its role in job creation and economic growth. The remarks were made at the 2026 Business Excellence Awards, held on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Sheraton Kampala Hotel in Kampala, according to Nile Post.

The event, organised by Consumer Publications Uganda Limited, recognised companies and individuals for performance, innovation and service quality across several sectors. Bahati said businesses are central to Uganda’s economic transformation and encouraged entrepreneurs to keep improving standards as they grow. His comments aligned with the broader goal of using private enterprise to support national development and employment.

Consumer Publications Uganda Limited chief executive Agnes Alowo said the awards are meant to promote excellence and encourage firms to improve their products and services. The Minister of State for National Guidance, Alioni Yorke Odria, also said the government would continue supporting efforts to strengthen the private sector.

Among the firms recognised were Stabex International Limited, Sadolin Paint, SPIRO Uganda, Movit, TMR Hospital, Euro Refinery and Bidco. SPIRO Uganda received the top platinum award in a two-wheeler electric motorcycle category, highlighting the growing visibility of electric mobility and manufacturing in Uganda’s business landscape.