The government is appealing to manufacturers to use this year to improve the quality and standards of manufacturers’ goods so as to be competitive in regional markets.
This was disclosed by the Minister of State for Trade in charge of industry, Hon. David Bahati, as he addressed manufacturers at the opening of the pre-Budget breakfast dialogue organised by the Uganda Manufacturers Association.
The Dialogue running under the theme “Harnessing the NDP IV to combat informality, eliminate illicit Trade and drive tenfold growth.”
Aga Sekalala, the Chairman of the Uganda Manufacturers Association, said the dialogue is exploring better approaches to ensuring competitiveness and sustainability in the competitive market.
According to UMA executive director Dr. Ezra Muhumuza, the dialogue that was held at Silver Springs Hotel discussed critical challenges facing the manufacturing sector.
These include taxation concerns, bureaucracy in certifying products by UNBS, inconsistent power supply, and reforms in PPDA to ensure that Ugandan manufacturers win supply contracts from the government.
Minister David Bahati says the Government is putting up the necessary infrastructure to support the export of manufacturing goods from Uganda.
The Role of Buy Uganda Build Uganda (BUBU)
This dialogue underscores the importance of the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU) policy in strengthening local manufacturing.
BUBU was introduced to encourage Ugandans to prioritize locally produced goods and services. When government agencies, businesses, and individuals choose Ugandan products, they help create jobs, keep money within the local economy, and support industrial growth.
But for the policy to deliver real results, local products must be able to compete not only on price but also on quality and reliability.
This is why improving manufacturing standards is critical. When Ugandan goods meet regional and international standards, they do more than serve the local market. They become strong exports that can compete across East Africa and beyond.
