Osaka, Japan — The Right Honourable Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja on Wednesday presided over a colourful Uganda National Day celebration at the World Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, marking a renewed chapter of strengthened economic and bilateral cooperation between Uganda and Japan.
The vibrant event — attended by Japanese government officials, business leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, and the general public — provided a global platform to showcase Uganda’s progress as a leading investment destination in Africa.
The Government of Japan was represented by Mr. Yoshitaka Ito, Minister in charge of the World Expo 2025.
In her keynote address, Prime Minister Nabbanja conveyed warm greetings from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the people of Uganda, expressing appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for their warm hospitality and for hosting what she described as a “remarkable” Expo, which has run for six months and is set to close on October 13, 2025.
Reflecting on the Expo’s sub-theme, “Empowering Lives,” Nabbanja noted that it aligns closely with Uganda’s national agenda to improve the quality of life for all citizens, particularly the youth, through inclusive growth and sustainable development.
The Prime Minister highlighted several tangible outcomes of the growing Uganda–Japan economic partnership, including:
A partnership between Selamat N. Vanilla Co. Ltd (Japan) and Gourmet Gardens (Uganda) to add value to Ugandan vanilla for export.
Gorilla Highlands Coffee, a Ugandan brand, successfully launching a direct market presence in Japan.
Africa Runners Company (ARC) promoting Uganda’s tourism potential in the Japanese market.
Plans to establish a Skeepon fertiliser factory in Uganda by AC-Planta (Japan) following successful trials.
Saraya Company exploring a venture to develop nutritious foods from Ugandan matooke for the Japanese market.
Inviting more Japanese firms to invest in Uganda, Nabbanja underscored the country’s peace and stability, strong economic growth — as recognised by the IMF — and its strategic location as a gateway to Africa’s continental markets.
She reaffirmed the government’s dedication to the Tenfold Growth Strategy, an ambitious plan aimed at expanding Uganda’s economy to USD 500 billion by 2040, and urged investors to seize opportunities in priority sectors such as: agro-industrialisation, tourism development, mineral development, oil and gas, science, technology, and innovation.
“The Government of Uganda remains fully committed to maintaining a favourable investment climate and supporting all investors who choose Uganda as their business destination,” Nabbanja stated, closing her speech with a warm Japanese greeting: “Minna-san, Uganda e yōkoso!” (Everyone, welcome to Uganda!).
The celebration concluded with a vibrant cultural performance by the Ndere Troupe, whose energetic display of traditional Ugandan music and dance earned thunderous applause.
The Uganda National Day at Expo 2025 stands as a symbol of the deepening friendship and partnership between Uganda and Japan — paving the way for enhanced trade, investment, and shared prosperity.
