Uganda and China Deepen Ties as Investors Explore Strategic Sectors

Uganda and China have reaffirmed their economic partnership as a high-level delegation of Chinese investors visits Uganda to explore opportunities in key sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure.

The strategic visit and engagement organized by the embassy of the republic of Uganda in Beijing, under the coordination of H.E Ambassador Oliver Wonekha is part of  government’s commitment to strengthening international economic partnerships in line with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s vision of advancing trade, investment, and industrial modernization.

The visit followed the recently concluded Annual Ambassadors’ Retreat in Gulu, where Ugandan envoys reaffirmed their mandate to position Uganda as a competitive investment destination.

Speaking on behalf of the Director General of the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), Peter Muramira highlighted anchor sectors that remain open for investment, including agriculture, manufacturing, oil and gas, infrastructure, and industrial park development.

He further noted Uganda’s growing emphasis on renewable energy such as bamboo plantations and processing, alongside technical training and scholarship opportunities that build a skilled workforce.

While acknowledging the existing trade imbalance between Uganda and China, Muramira underscored the positive momentum, citing that Uganda’s exports to China registered a 127% increase between February 2024 and February 2025. This growth signals Uganda’s expanding export potential and the government’s drive to diversify trade.

The Chinese delegation, led by Diao Chunhe, Chairman of the Alliance of Chinese Business in Africa for Social Responsibilities, commended Uganda’s enabling business climate and reaffirmed China’s readiness to expand cooperation.

He noted that Uganda’s recognition as the “Best Investment Destination in Africa 2024” and its record $3.034 billion in foreign direct investment during the last fiscal year underscore the country’s strong investment credentials.  

Projects such as the Karuma Hydropower Plant, Buikwe Water Supply Project, and backbone communication networks were cited as successful examples of China-Uganda collaboration, reflecting tangible benefits of bilateral cooperation. The meeting also emphasized the importance of industrial cooperation, social responsibility, and shared outcomes as pillars for sustainable partnerships.

Representing the Chinese Embassy in Uganda, Wang Jianxun, Economic and Commercial Counsellor, congratulated both parties on the success of the cooperation forum.

He highlighted the historic relations between the two countries, dating back to 1962, and reaffirmed China’s commitment to encouraging responsible Chinese enterprises to invest in Uganda.

Uganda remains steadfast in pursuing its Vision 2040 and Fourth National Development Plan, prioritizing agriculture, energy, digital development, and industrialization.

By creating a conducive investment environment, the Government of Uganda welcomes partnerships that foster economic growth, job creation, technology transfer, and sustainable development.