economy 14 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Bahati Back in Cabinet, Vows to Drive Industrial Growth
Newly reappointed State Minister for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives (Industry), David Bahati, has committed to a renewed focus on industrial expansion, manufacturing, and value addition during his upcoming term. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/back-in-cabinet-bahati-eyes-industrial-expansion-despite-election-defeat-5496048
David Bahati, who has been reappointed as the State Minister for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives (Industry), has expressed gratitude for his continued role in President Museveni’s cabinet. During a thanksgiving service in Kabale District, Bahati outlined his ambitious plans to significantly boost Uganda’s industrial sector.
His primary objective is to elevate the industrial sector’s contribution to the national economy. “We shall ensure that we increase the contribution of the industrial sector from the current 27.4 percent to 45 percent in the next five years,” Bahati stated, emphasizing the goal of increasing manufacturing output, enhancing value addition to raw materials, and consequently creating more jobs and wealth.
To support this agenda, the government intends to expand industrial infrastructure nationwide. Bahati announced plans to establish approximately five new industrial parks, adding to the fifteen already in operation, thereby providing more spaces to encourage manufacturing and investment.
Specific initiatives for the Kigezi sub-region were also highlighted. Bahati aims to advocate for an iron ore processing plant, a project previously suggested by President Museveni, and an Irish potato processing factory to capitalize on the region’s agricultural strengths.
Furthermore, the minister pledged to push for the completion of crucial road projects in Kigezi, particularly those supporting tourism, recognizing the vital role of infrastructure in economic development and visitor numbers.
Bahati also took the opportunity to encourage the public to engage in hard work and embrace wealth creation programs as a means to combat household poverty. He further committed to supporting local community projects, including a dormitory block for Kakomo Secondary School and efforts to procure an ambulance for the local health center.
The thanksgiving service saw significant attendance from local leaders and residents who lauded President Museveni’s decision and encouraged Bahati to serve diligently. This marks a renewed commitment from the minister to drive Uganda’s industrialization forward.