Overview:
President Museveni and MTN Group executives have held discussions on boosting investment in the country and strengthening economic ties.
President Yoweri Museveni has held talks with a senior delegation from MTN Group, focusing on investment in Uganda’s economy.
The meeting at State House, Entebbe, saw the president discuss the telecom company’s role in Uganda’s development with MTN Group Chairman Mcebisi Jonas and Chief Executive Ralph Mupita.
Mr Museveni emphasised the importance of investment in sectors that create jobs and stimulate economic growth. “If people have jobs and incomes, they will buy more phones and use them more,” he said. “That’s why we must invest in commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT.”
He also encouraged MTN to consider cross-border investments to boost regional trade.
MTN representatives reaffirmed their long-term commitment to Uganda. The country holds significance for the company as its first market outside of South Africa, where they secured a telecommunications license in 1998.
Mr Jonas expressed gratitude for the government’s support. “We just came today to say thank you very much for the support you have always given us,” he said. “We have had excellent collaboration from the regulators, and MTN is here for the long term.”
He also highlighted MTN’s interest in strengthening business ties between Uganda and South Africa, adding that there was “real opportunity to help Ugandan businesses enter the South African market.”
The discussions centred on MTN’s contribution to Uganda’s digital and economic development, with both sides exploring investment strategies.