The Trade Minister, Hon. Francis Mwebesa, has appealed to Ugandan exporters to take full advantage of the Uganda Connect Hub at Entebbe International Airport to showcase the country’s quality products to international travelers and potential buyers. Hon. Mwebesa made the remarks yesterday afternoon, Monday December 16, 2024 as he officially commissioned the facility at the Departures section of the airport. These hubs are promotional tools aimed at pushing Ugandan exports to achieve the set target of an extra USD 6 billion in the next five years and USD 100 billion by 2062.
In his address, Hon. Mwebesa expressed gratitude to the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID) for spearheading the initiative aimed at showcasing Ugandan products to an international audience by enhancing the visibility of Uganda’s rich array of export products. “Today, we are not just inaugurating a hub; we are igniting a vision- a vision that aims to propel Uganda’s exports to new heights and achieve our ambitious target of $6 billion by 2028 and $100 billion by 2062. This trade hub is a vital promotional tool designed to showcase the best of what Uganda has to offer to the world. As we move forward, I urge all of you-business leaders, exporters and potential investors- to take full advantage of this hub. Let us work together to promote unique products from our rich coffee and tea to our vibrant handcrafts and innovative technologies. Let us tell the world about the beauty and potential of Uganda.”
The Trade Hub features a diverse range of Ugandan products, including value-added coffee, tea, dairy products, banana flour products, handcrafts and other agricultural produce, all aimed at attracting the attention of tourists and business travelers alike.
In his brief speech, Odrek Rwabwogo, the Chairman of PACEID commended the efforts of all partners involved in making the Uganda Connect Trade Hub a reality. “Such initiatives, small as they may seem, are important in promoting Ugandan products and ensuring their presence in the global market.”
He further encouraged Ugandan entrepreneurs to take advantage of this platform to reach a wider audience and expand their businesses.
This initiative reflects Uganda’s commitment to expanding its presence in the global market and leveraging its rich resources to create new opportunities for local producers.
As the event concluded, Fred Bamwesigye, Director General of Uganda Civil Aviation Authority reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting local businesses and creating an enabling environment for trade. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate in promoting Ugandan products, ensuring that the country continues to make its mark on the global stage.