Manufacturers Push for Local Production, Affordable Finance and Buy Uganda Drive

What the report says

Uganda’s manufacturers are using this year’s international trade fair in Kampala to press for lower-cost financing, more reliable electricity and stronger support for locally made goods as the country seeks to expand industrial output and exports. The issue was highlighted at the official opening of the 32nd Uganda International Trade Fair at the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) Show Grounds in Lugogo, where more than 1,000 exhibitors are taking part in a 10-day event running from October 2 to 11, according to Nile Post.

Trade, Industry and Cooperatives Minister Sanjay Tanna, speaking for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, urged businesses to move further toward value addition rather than exporting raw materials. He said Uganda should build stronger domestic supply chains and position itself as a production hub. UMA leaders echoed that message, saying the country’s industrial growth depends on finishing more products locally in areas such as agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, steel, textiles, leather and construction materials.

UMA Board Chairman Aga Sekalala Jr. said the association now has 1,737 members and argued that manufacturing can support jobs, tax revenue and broader economic growth. UMA Advisory Council Chair Abid Alam said factories need patient capital, stable power, timely tax refunds and consistent policy support. He also called for more public procurement from qualified local suppliers under the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda agenda.

The fair is also being used as a market-linking platform, with organisers highlighting themed pavilions and a new consumer promotion featuring direct sales from verified Ugandan producers. The broader message from industry leaders is that industrialisation will require both private-sector investment and deliberate government and consumer support for local production.