By David Rupiny
Kapeeka Industrial Park, located to the northwest of Uganda’s capital, Kampala, has been commended for transforming a once quiet rural area into a bustling industrial hub, creating vast economic opportunities for Ugandans.
The industrial park held its second exhibition from August 29 to 30. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja represented President Yoweri Museveni.
In his message to the expo goers, President Museveni hailed the economic transformation as evidence of the Government’s commitment to delivering, as he put it, “a fundamental change in Uganda’s economy”.
Said the President: “You will run out of fingers counting the goods manufactured here. Factories are producing tiles, sinks, glasses, footwear, textiles, bowls, electricity cables, batteries, solar panels, and processing fruits. This is the industrial revolution we have long spoken about. Jobs and skills for the youth are now here.”
The President commended the expo organisers for the trade show that provides an opportunity for business networking, knowledge sharing, and market access. He also encouraged the local entrepreneurs to seize the opportunities presented by the industrial parks to scale up their businesses and engage in joint ventures with international partners.
President Museveni reiterated the Government’s continued commitment to promoting the “Buy Uganda, Build Uganda” (BUBU) policy, which prioritizes local content and strengthening of the manufacturing base.
The Prime Minister, while touring the exhibition stalls, described Kapeeka Industrial Park as both an investment hub and a livelihood changer. She said the workers earn income, are provided meals, and are gaining skills and work ethics that will last their entire lifetime.
The Director General of Uganda Investment Authority, Robert Mukiza, described Kapeeka Industrial Park as a national model for industrial development.
Said Mukiza: “Uganda has over 5,000 factories and 25 industrial parks in various stages of development. These zones are critical for attracting investment, creating employment, and moving Uganda closer to middle-income status. Investors can now access all services under one roof at our one-stop shop www.ebiz.go.ug in Kololo, Kampala.”
The Government, through the Uganda Investment Authority, is developing critical infrastructure, including electricity, roads, water, and waste treatment, in the industrial park.
The local area leader, Richard Kayita, said there is a notable transformation in the area and appealed to locals to invest in housing, hotels, restaurants, schools, healthcare services, and other amenities.
The Managing Director of the park, Zhang Hao, said the industrial park is more than just a business project; it is a shared vision.
“We are building industrial infrastructure, creating jobs, and expanding Uganda’s export potential, and we are only just beginning”, said Hao.
The Spokesperson of Buganda Kingdom, where the park is located, hailed the Government for maintaining peace and freedoms that have enabled industrial growth and development.
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