Minister Tumwebaze urges Ugandan coffee farmers to organize through associations for better engagement with the government. He recently oversaw the allocation of coffee processing equipment worth two billion shillings to empower 75 farmers. This initiative aims to enhance on-farm processing, leading to improved farm gate prices.
Kampala City Capital Authority marked its remarkable success in securing the Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation with a joyous ceremony at the Serena Hotel. This prestigious award acknowledges cities that have shown remarkable dedication and ingenuity in tackling urban challenges.
The construction of a Shs 1.1 trillion cement and clinker factory in Moroto, led by West International Holding Limited, offers hope to the Karamoja region. Set to employ over 2,000 people, with a focus on local employment, the factory aims to produce 6,000 to 7,000 tonnes per day, reducing the need for imported raw materials.
The High Commission of Uganda, Uganda Airlines, and South African entities collaborate to boost tourism. The joint event fosters partnerships, with a focus on promoting Uganda’s tourism potential. The High Commission pledges support, including visa waiver efforts.
COP28 leaders are urged to create a fund for smallholder farmers to adapt to climate change, emphasized by the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD). Donal Brown, IFAD’s Associate Vice-President, stresses the importance of financing for small-scale farmers and calls for streamlined access to funds.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has met with investors from London-based company Strand Hanson Limited, expressing support for their proposal to mine lithium in Ntungamo district for local manufacturing of electric car batteries.
Vice-President Alupo directs the Gender Ministry to prioritize women entrepreneurs in GROW project implementation. The five-year project aims to support 60,000 female-led enterprises in Uganda.
The government, through the Uganda Development Bank Ltd (UDB), has invested sh1.4 trillion in initiatives like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga to accelerate socio-economic development. The Uganda Development Corporation (UDC) aims to support the private sector, especially in industries like cotton, fruit processing, tea, sugar, and coffee.
The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has announced the recommencement of the second phase of troop withdrawal from Somalia in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2710 (2023). Initially paused upon the Federal Government of Somalia’s request, the withdrawal involves 3,000 troops and the transfer of control for eight Forward Operating Bases by December 2023.
Uganda’s upcoming hosting of the Commonwealth Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers (CSPOC) presents a golden opportunity for the nation. Scheduled for January 3-6, 2024, the event offers Uganda a chance to showcase its commitment to democracy, engage in diplomatic dialogue, attract investments, boost tourism, and strengthen global partnerships.
