President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Thursday met a delegation of investors from the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), who have expressed interest in strengthening Uganda’s cargo transport sector through the construction of an inland (dry) port.
The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry was established by an Amiri decree in 1970 by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah to play a central role in organising and promoting economic activity across the trade, industry, agriculture, digital, and professional sectors, in collaboration with relevant institutions and government departments.
The meeting took place at State Lodge, Nakasero, and the delegation was led by Mr Farid Belbouab, Chief Executive Officer of Gulftainer Co. Ltd.
During the engagement, the investors presented a proposal aimed at improving the handling of cargo before and after arrival at dry ports, to reduce the cost of doing business and enhance efficiency in regional trade.
The delegation informed the President that they are currently in negotiations with the Government of Uganda and expect to conclude the first phase of the project within the next six months.
President Museveni encouraged them to fast-track the process, underscoring the importance of such infrastructure investments to the economy. “Uganda benefits from jobs as these projects employ many people, use electricity and water, and also stimulate local commerce,” President Museveni said.
He further noted that dry ports play a critical role in facilitating the smooth movement of goods and should focus primarily on efficient logistics rather than taxation.
President Museveni welcomed the proposal and assured the investors of government support. “I welcome the initiative and will support it,” he said.
The meeting focused on trade facilitation, improvement of logistics infrastructure, and attracting investment into Uganda’s transport and storage sector, in line with broader efforts to promote regional integration and economic growth.