President Yoweri Museveni has once again called on local and foreign investors to deepen their investments in Uganda’s manufacturing sector, emphasizing that industrialization is at the heart of the country’s socio-economic transformation.
The message was delivered on his behalf by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja at the official launch of the CHINT Electrical Center in Kampala — a landmark event that celebrates 20 years of the Chinese-founded company’s operations in Uganda.
“The overall objective of the NRM government has been, and continues to be, the socio-economic transformation of Uganda by increasing private sector entrepreneurship.
Today is a highlight of NRM leadership in building a resilient and sustainable economy through investments that create jobs,” President Museveni said in his message.
The President highlighted Uganda’s impressive economic growth since 1986, noting that the economy has grown nearly 15-fold — from UGX 42.6 billion (USD 3.9 billion) to over UGX 226.3 trillion (USD 61.3 billion).
He projected a 7% GDP growth for the 2025/26 financial year, placing Uganda among the top ten fastest-growing economies globally.
President Museveni further cited the anticipated boost from major infrastructure and energy projects, including:
The upcoming commercial production of oil and gas, and
The Standard Gauge Railway, which will improve Uganda’s trade connectivity with Kenya and the region.
President Museveni applauded CHINT Uganda’s commitment to industrial growth, calling the company “not just a Chinese company, but a Ugandan company contributing to national development.”
He emphasized that Uganda has remained resilient through multiple global shocks—including the 2008 global recession and the COVID-19 pandemic—because of a steadily expanding and diversifying industrial base.
“No amount of disruption will stop Uganda from being prosperous. We welcome mutual collaboration, but our allies must respect our priorities and interests,” President Museveni asserted.
Speaking at the event, CHINT Uganda founder and CEO, Shi Jiane Namutebi, recounted the company’s remarkable growth from a two-person operation in a small Kampala shop to a regional giant in electrical manufacturing.
“This is not just a building. It’s a testament to 20 years of resilience, partnership, and unwavering belief in Uganda’s potential,” said Namutebi.
Key highlights of CHINT Uganda’s evolution include:
Transition from importing to local manufacturing of electrical cables and Yaka meters.
Expansion across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Sudan.
Direct and indirect employment of thousands, including over 500 certified Ugandan electrical engineers and interior designers.
Introduction of luxury interior products through a strategic partnership with China’s OPPEIN.
The nearing completion of a multi-million-dollar tire factory, set to launch in early 2026.
“Through you, Madam Prime Minister, we humbly invite His Excellency the President to commission it, if his schedule permits,” Namutebi said.
Namutebi credited government support, including the “Build Uganda, Buy Uganda” (BUBU) policy, for enabling CHINT’s growth and expansion. She also praised local landlords, customers, and engineers whose support helped build the newly launched CHINT Electrical Center.
“Every complaint and feedback challenged us to be better. You are the reason we stand here today,” she said.
As Uganda positions itself as a hub for industrial development in East Africa, Museveni’s message reaffirms the government’s openness to strategic investment — but on Uganda’s terms.
With companies like CHINT investing not just capital but skills, jobs, and innovation, Uganda’s manufacturing sector is set to play a decisive role in shaping the country’s post-oil economic future.
