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The 1st Uganda Trade, Tourism, and Investment Summit in Doha marked a significant step in bolstering economic ties between Uganda and Qatar. Organized by the Uganda Export Promotions Board, the event drew government officials and private sector representatives from both nations. Key speakers highlighted the importance of international engagements, with a focus on enhancing competitiveness to unlock trade and investment opportunities. The summit showcased Uganda’s economic profile and growth trajectory, emphasizing its appeal as an investment destination.

Efforts to enhance trade and investment between Uganda and Qatar were at the forefront of the 1st Uganda Trade, Tourism, and Investment Summit in Doha, Qatar, on Tuesday.

Organized by the Uganda Export Promotions Board (UEPB), the Summit brought together government officials and private sector representatives from both Uganda and Qatar. The event was inaugurated by the Minister for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, Hon Francis Mwebesa, with the state minister for Trade, Hon Harriet Ntabazi, also in attendance. It took place a day after the Uganda National Day at Expo 2023 in Doha.

In his address, Hon Mwebesa emphasized the significance of participating in international expositions, trade events, and commercial diplomacy to develop Uganda’s international trade and spur economic growth.

Speakers at the summit stressed the importance of enhancing competitiveness to leverage trade and investment opportunities between Uganda and Qatar. Ramathan Ggoobi, the Permanent Secretary/Secretary to Treasury in the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, presented Uganda’s economic profile, outlook, and prospects, highlighting its growth trajectory and suitability as an investment destination.

Representatives from the Presidential CEO Forum, Private Sector Foundation, Uganda Development Corporation, and Qatar Chamber of Commerce also addressed the summit.

Dr. Elly Twineyo, the summit host, and Commissioner General of Expo 2023 Uganda, declared that Uganda is open for business, being one of the most open economies globally, with a projected faster growth rate compared to most economies in Africa and the world.

Uganda’s Ambassador to Qatar, HE Stephen Chebrot, and the Deputy Head of Mission, HE Mohammed Kezaala, were also present at the summit.

The summit’s theme centered around “Exploring tourism, trade, and investment opportunities of mutual interest to Uganda and Qatar.”