Hon. Minsa Kabanda, Minister for Kampala,
Hon. Justice Byabakama, Cahirperson of Electoral Comission,
Mr. Thedeus Musoke Nagenda, Chairperson of Kasita-Uganda
Distinguished Business Leaders,
Ladies, and Gentlemen,

It is a great honor to stand before this esteemed gathering of Ugandan businesspeople; the driving force behind the growth and transformation of Uganda.

No economy can thrive without the vision and determination of its business community. You bring together resources, talent, and creativity to build enterprises that fuel growth. In Uganda, your contributions are evident in the vibrant energy of Kampala’s markets, the rapid expansion of industries, and the increasing regional and global footprint of Ugandan businesses.

While Uganda’s economy has shown resilience and growth, the opportunities for diversification and expansion are immense. Sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, services, and energy hold untapped potential waiting to be realized by business leaders like yourselves.

Türkiye stands as the world’s 17th largest economy, according to IMF, with a GDP exceeding 1 trillion dollars. Over the past two decades, we have transitioned into a dynamic, export-oriented economy, trading with partners in over 200 countries. Türkiye's share of global trade more than doubled from 0.49% in 2002 to 1.08% in 2023. Türkiye eyes $50 Billion trade goal with Africa, which reached 37 Billion in 2023.

Our success is rooted in key sectors where innovation and investment have flourished, including Agriculture, Manufacturing and Industry, Tourism and Services, Technology and Startups.

The economic potential between Uganda and Türkiye is vast. Our two countries share a vision of sustainable growth, and together we can achieve more. Let me outline a few areas where collaboration can thrive:

1. Agro-Industry and Value Addition:
Uganda’s fertile soils and agricultural abundance create a foundation for growth in agro-processing. Türkiye’s experience in value-added production and export-oriented agriculture can help enhance Uganda’s food processing capabilities and market access.

2. Trade Expansion:
Increasing the flow of goods and services between Uganda and Türkiye can open new markets for both sides. Opportunities exist in textiles, construction materials, machinery, and agricultural products.

3. Infrastructure Development:
Uganda’s expanding economy requires robust infrastructure. Turkish companies, renowned for their expertise in construction and engineering, can contribute to building roads, energy plants, and industrial zones.

As you may have also followed it from the recent news, our Yapı Merkezi company will built the Malaba-Kampala SGR, Summa is building a stadium in Hoima, Polatyol and Gülsan companies are building roads in Nakapripirit and Lira. Kolin has completed a similar road project in Hoima three years ago.

4. Tourism and Hospitality:
With its natural beauty and cultural richness, Uganda has immense tourism potential. Türkiye’s thriving tourism sector offers valuable lessons and opportunities for collaboration in hospitality management, promotion, and infrastructure. We hosted more than 50 million tourists in 2023.

5. Technology and Innovation:

The digital economy is shaping the future of business globally. By sharing expertise in fintech, e-commerce, and innovation ecosystems, we can support Uganda’s journey toward digital transformation.

6. SME Growth and Investment:

Small and Medium Enterprises are the lifeblood of any economy. Türkiye’s experience in nurturing SMEs through access to finance, training, and export promotion can serve as a model for fostering growth in Uganda’s SME sector.

Taking this opportunity, I am pleased to share with you that a Turkish business delegation composed of 20 people was in Uganda last week. They participated the “Ateker Cultural Festival” and they hold fruitful talks with their counterparts both in Soroti and Kampala, and also met Ugandan authorities in various Ministries. And this week we are hosting another Turkish delegation, composed of representatives of our defence industry.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Uganda and Türkiye share more than just a spirit of resilience and determination; we share a belief in the power of partnership. Together, we can unlock opportunities that drive mutual growth and prosperity.

I encourage you, as the leaders of Uganda’s business community, to explore partnerships with your counterparts in Türkiye. Let us exchange ideas, build networks, and create lasting collaborations that will benefit not only our economies but also our people.

Your role in shaping Uganda’s future cannot be overstated, and I assure you that Türkiye stands ready to support and partner with you on this journey.

Our Commercial Counsellor Mr. Zeki Vural is among us tonight. He is always at your disposal to give you the necessary support.

So “lets connect our minds and create opportunities !”

I thank Kacita Uganda, Uganda Manufacturers Association and Presidential CEO Forum for organizing this dinner and giving me the opportunity to address you.

I also thank you for your patience, and I look forward to fruitful discussions and partnerships.