President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on European investors to explore business opportunities in Uganda, highlighting the country’s potential in agriculture, aquaculture, and environmental sustainability.
During a meeting at his country home in Irenga, Ntungamo District, Museveni expressed concern over Europe’s declining investment in Africa, contrasting it with China’s growing economic influence.
“What happened to our relatives, the Europeans? Why don’t they come and invest?” he asked, citing Africa’s projected population growth of 2.5 billion in the next 30 years as a major market opportunity.
He commended European companies already operating in Uganda, including those in liquid coffee production, avocado exports, and medical waste management. He assured them of continued government support to expand their investments.
Museveni also outlined plans to restore degraded wetlands by relocating farmers to the peripheries for sustainable fish farming. He criticized swamp rice cultivation for damaging the Nile River’s tributaries, stressing the need for environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
European investors welcomed his call for stronger economic ties.
Nico Van Vliet, representing the Uganda Flowers Exporters Association, said, “We see great potential for growth, not only in the European Union but also in regional markets like Kenya and Ethiopia. We are committed to contributing more to Uganda’s economy.”
Eric de Waan from Yalelo Uganda emphasized Uganda’s potential in aquaculture. “Uganda has the best conditions for fish farming, especially in Lake Victoria. We aim to invest $5 million annually to expand operations,” he said.
Museveni reaffirmed his commitment to attracting foreign investment that supports economic development while ensuring environmental conservation.
