Museveni Seeks More Japanese Investment and Road Equipment

President Yoweri Museveni has appealed to Japan for greater investment in Uganda, particularly in the agro-processing industry, emphasizing its role in job creation and economic growth. During a meeting with a Japanese delegation led by Ambassador Takahashi Misako, Director General and Assistant Minister for the African Affairs Department at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the President highlighted the need for enhanced bilateral cooperation.

President Museveni expressed gratitude for Japan’s past support in infrastructure projects such as the Kampala Flyover and Karuma Bridge. He stressed the critical need for more road construction equipment, suggesting that each local government should possess its own machinery, including graders, trucks, and compactors. He noted that while new equipment is welcome, durable, locally repairable machinery would be highly beneficial, recalling positive past experiences with Japanese manufacturers like Komatsu.

The President also proposed a meeting with Japanese companies currently operating in Uganda to discuss their challenges and explore ways to improve their operations. “I would want to meet them as a group, if we could organize,” he stated, aiming to facilitate solutions to operational hurdles.

Ambassador Misako affirmed Japan’s continued commitment to supporting Uganda’s development. This includes ongoing infrastructure projects, human resource development, education, health, and refugee support initiatives. Japan is considering further assistance for the Kampala Flyover and road upgrading projects, including the Kibuye-Busega road. A groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of Karuma Bridge is planned for November.

The delegation acknowledged Uganda’s significant role in regional peace and stability and its efforts in hosting refugees. Currently, 17 Japanese companies are active in Uganda across various sectors, and the Ambassador commended President Museveni for fostering a conducive business environment to attract further investment.

Discussions also covered educational exchanges, with over 200 Ugandans having benefited from Japanese government scholarships and thousands more from JICA training programs. The vital role of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in strengthening Japan-Africa ties was also recognized.

Source: State House (Uganda)