The Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), in partnership with the High Commission of India in Uganda, successfully hosted a public dialogue focused on strengthening the bilateral relationship between India and Uganda. The event, held on October 2, 2025, at the Kabira Country Club Hotel, focused on exploring “Opportunities for Trade, Investment, and Collaboration” under Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan (NDPIV).
The dialogue brought together leaders from key sectors of both economies, including manufacturing, banking, trade, pharmaceuticals, and academia.
In her welcome remarks, EPRC Executive Director Sarah Ssewanyana highlighted the significance of the event’s theme, calling it “a call to strategic action.” She emphasised that the discussion was informed by rigorous evidence and objective analysis conducted by the EPRC.
High Commissioner of India to Uganda, H.E. Upender Singh Rawat, officially opened the event, positioning it as a platform to showcase industry opportunities and signal business reforms to improve the investment climate. He stressed the need for Uganda to streamline approvals and provide clarity to address investment bottlenecks.
Mr. Rawat acknowledged the significant role of the Indian community in Uganda’s economy, noting that while they constitute only about 1% of the population, they provide strong economic and cultural ties between the two nations.
High Commissioner of India to Uganda, H.E. Upender Singh Rawat implored Uganda to streamline business approvals and provide clarity to address investment bottlenecks
Mr. Rajesh Kumar, Chairman of the Indian Business Forum, highlighted Indian businesses’ contributions to the national economy. He recalled that during the 2022 Afro-India Summit, Ugandan and Indian investors signed deals worth USD 470 million, showcasing India’s strong role in Uganda’s economic landscape.
Representing the Ministry of Finance, Director of Economic Affairs Moses Kaggwa stated that the dialogue came at an opportune time, coinciding with the launch of the NDPIV and Uganda’s ambitious ten-fold growth strategy. This blueprint aims to rapidly expand the country’s economy.
A key highlight was the presentation by Aidah Natabbi, a Research Analyst at EPRC. She outlined promising investment opportunities for the Indian business community, specifically highlighting agriculture and agro-industrialization, education and skills development, and technology and innovation.
The event featured dynamic panel discussions with representatives from both the Ugandan government and the private sector, along with members of the Indian business community. The sessions were moderated by Richard Mubiru, Corporate Affairs Director for Nytil Uganda/Picfare, and Dr. Richard Okot Okello, the Acting Commissioner for External Trade at the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Cooperatives (MTIC).
Closing remarks were delivered by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor of Makerere University. He underscored the importance of human capital, skills development, and innovation in driving high-quality trade interactions between Uganda and India. Prof. Nawangwe also noted India’s leadership in important sectors like science and technology, presenting a valuable learning opportunity for Uganda.
Dr Isaac Shinyekwa, EPRC Senior Research and Head of Trade and Regional Integration Department, moderated the dialogue.
EPRC Executive Director addressing the India-Uganda bilateral relations policy dialogue.
Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof Barnabas Nawangwe underscored the importance of human capital, skills development, and innovation in driving high-quality trade interactions between Uganda and India
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