Uganda-Qatar Business Forum Kicks Off in Doha

Doha — The Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in the State of Qatar successfully hosted the Second Edition of the Uganda–Qatar Business Forum at Rotana City Centre, Doha, under the theme: “Uganda and Qatar in Partnership for Shared Economic Development.”

The high-level forum brought together senior government officials, investors, and private sector leaders from both countries to explore new avenues of trade, investment, and bilateral cooperation.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr Vincent Waiswa Bagiire, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uganda, reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to advancing economic and commercial diplomacy as a driver of national development.

“Uganda’s doors are open to investors who share our vision for sustainable growth,” Mr Bagiire stated. “Our country offers vast opportunities in agro-industrialisation, manufacturing, tourism, and infrastructure, all supported by a youthful workforce, political stability, and regional market access.”

He commended the Embassy’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Uganda’s global investment presence and called on participants to turn dialogue into tangible partnerships that create jobs and foster mutual prosperity.

In his remarks, H.E. Dr Stephen Chebrot, Ambassador of Uganda to the State of Qatar, highlighted that the Forum reflects Uganda’s growing engagement with Qatar through commercial diplomacy — with a focus on expanding trade, investment, and tourism linkages.

A key highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring representatives from the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotion Authority (UFEPA), and the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB). The panel showcased Uganda’s investment incentives, export opportunities, and tourism potential under the “Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa” brand, encouraging Qatari investors to take advantage of Uganda’s strategic opportunities across key sectors.

Also speaking at the Forum, Mr Mohammed Massami, Chairman of KON Group, commended the progress made in strengthening trade and investment relations between Uganda and Qatar.

“Over the past decade, Uganda’s exports to Qatar have grown from USD 20 million to USD 34 million, while Qatar’s exports to Uganda have risen from USD 17 million to USD 26 million,” he noted. “This growth reflects how our partnership has evolved from ideas to reality — now reinforced by increased weekly flights between the two countries.”

Mr Massami, who first visited Uganda in 2022 to explore USD 10 million worth of investment opportunities in agro-processing and mineral development, further welcomed the forthcoming establishment of the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Uganda, describing it as a milestone that will elevate bilateral cooperation.

“The investment partnership between Uganda and Qatar is not just a destination, but a shared commitment to deepening economic and diplomatic relations,” he added.

The Uganda–Qatar Business Forum continues to serve as a vital platform for advancing economic diplomacy, promoting trade and investment, and fostering long-term partnerships between the two nations.