Kiwanuka Urges Africa to Process Resources Locally to Build Wealth

Uganda’s Defence Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka has emphasised the urgent need for African countries to prioritise the local processing of raw materials. Speaking at the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa held in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, Kiwanuka argued that the continent must retain more value from its natural resources to improve citizens’ livelihoods and reduce foreign dependence.

Representing President Yoweri Museveni on October 24, 2026, Kiwanuka participated in a panel discussion focusing on economic independence, regional integration, and continental security. He pointed out that true development must translate into individual wealth creation rather than merely focusing on physical infrastructure, calling for deeper patriotism and policies that ensure local benefit.

Drawing from Uganda’s historical experience with the copper industry, Kiwanuka highlighted the pitfalls of exporting raw minerals only to re-import finished goods at a much higher cost. He asserted that stopping the export of unprocessed materials and strengthening internal markets will shield African economies from external shocks.

Other leaders at the three-day gathering, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, similarly linked economic sovereignty directly to continental stability. Deliberations at the forum underscored how reducing external dependencies and building robust regional markets can safeguard public welfare against global economic pressures. Read the full story on Nile Post.