Tayebwa pushes for ethical business practices

What the report says

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has urged Ugandan business leaders to prioritize tax compliance, transparency and ethical conduct, arguing that a stronger private sector is essential to the country’s economic transformation. He made the remarks on Wednesday at the inaugural National Prayer Breakfast Business Forum at Parliament in Kampala, where lawmakers and business representatives discussed the role of enterprise in national development.

According to The Independent Uganda, Tayebwa said the government is focusing more on widening the tax base and improving compliance than on adding new taxes. He linked higher compliance to better public revenue for infrastructure and services, while also warning that selective tax exemptions and preferential treatment can undermine fair competition. He also said Parliament wants direct feedback from businesses on whether existing laws and policies support growth and wealth creation.

Tayebwa further called for integrity within the private sector, saying ethical standards should apply to workers and business owners as well as public officials. He urged entrepreneurs to think beyond profit and consider the wider impact of their companies through jobs, supply chains and tax contributions. He also encouraged established businesspeople to mentor young Ugandans and aspiring entrepreneurs, including MPs who want to build sustainable businesses.

The forum featured keynote remarks by Emmanuel Katongole, executive chairman of Quality Chemicals Industries Uganda Limited, and drew participants from several countries. The event, according to the report, was intended to strengthen cooperation between Parliament and the private sector.