MTN rallies corporate companies ahead of Uganda-South Africa summit

MTN Uganda has hailed South African businesses and companies working from Uganda for supporting the upcoming Uganda-South Africa Trade and Investment Summit which will take place in September at Speke Resort Munyonyo.

Speaking at the launch of the summit on Wednesday in Kampala, MTN CEO Sylvia Mulinge said the company, itself a subsidiary of South Africa-based MTN Group, was fulfilling a request by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni

“MTN is here today in fulfilment of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s longstanding challenge that was re-iterated during the South African leg of the Uganda-South Africa trade and investment summit held in South Africa in February this year, in which H.E. tasked successful South African Businesses in Uganda to mobilize more South African companies to come and invest in Uganda particularly in the areas of value addition in the agrobusiness sector and manufacturing,” she said.

“This would in turn boost the economy, create more jobs, and improve the country’s balance of payment,” she said.

Ms Mulinge said MTN stepped up to the challenge and reached out to South African entities under the Forum for South Africa Businesses in Uganda (FOSABU).

“I take this opportunity to recognize and thank the institutions that have joined this effort; Absa Uganda, Sanlam Uganda, NBL Uganda, Stanbic Holdings Ltd, dfcu group, Multichoice Uganda, and Woolworths that are all well represented by their CEOs/ MDS here today,” she said.

“We believe that we can achieve a faster social and economic transformation when the private sector partners with the government in support of the country’s National Development,” she added.

In his remarks, Charles Mudiwa, CEO dfcu Bank, highlighted the institution’s unwavering commitment to Uganda’s economic advancement.

“The Bank’s substantial investments in fostering a sustainable agricultural sector and empowering women entrepreneurs underscore our enduring dedication to our Purpose which is, ‘Transforming Lives and Businesses in Uganda’”- Mudiwa added.

“Collaborations between South African and Ugandan businesses are crucial for the success of the investment summit and dfcu Bank stands ready to facilitate these partnerships by providing the opportunities and resources required to make this a reality,” he reiterated.

The Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID),  Odrek_Rwabwogo, commended the collaborative efforts of MTN Uganda and partners for the support towards hosting the forthcoming Uganda-South Africa Summit in Kampala, September 5th and 6th, 2023.

In his address, he delved into the vital topic of coffee and corporate influence. He emphasized the significance of corporate involvement in Uganda’s essential raw materials, advocating for strategic co-investment as an exceptional form of corporate social responsibility, particularly when rooted in local initiatives. He underscored the importance of intellectual property and the potential of global partnerships

He urged the South African business community to come and invest more in Uganda’s agro-business and manufacturing sectors.

Minister of State for Regional Cooperation John Mulimba said the role of the Ugandan government is to heed the private sector’s voice and create a conducive environment.

“We are happy about the FOSABU Summit, a positive stride forward.  Enhancing transport and telecommunications is crucial for traders’ success. Let’s pave the way for progress,” he said.

H.E Lulu Xingwana, the SA High Commissioner to Uganda, said anticipation is rising for the upcoming FOSABU summit, with hopes for a successful event next month.

“The summit’s focal points include agriculture, energy, and tourism, where collaborative efforts are ready to empower Ugandan farmers, provide access to global markets, and tap into Uganda’s natural beauty. With such partnerships, collaboration will take center stage as South Africa’s tourism expertise aligns with Uganda’s scenic charm, offering a unique opportunity to harness tourism potential. The energy sector also holds significant promise. With established companies and shared expertise, Uganda’s oil and gas sector presents avenues for exploration and growth,” she said.