90 entrepreneurs trained on boosting exports

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A cohort of 90 entrepreneurs who graduated from an export readiness programme conducted by Enterprise Uganda is expected to significantly boost Uganda’s economy through increased exports, job creation, and value addition.

The entrepreneurs graduated after an intensive three-day Export Accelerator Programme designed to equip both existing and aspiring exporters with the skills needed to access regional and international markets under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, held at their Business Training Hub at Butabika last week, Enterprise Uganda Director General Charles Ocici emphasised that the training was not just about exporting goods, but about building sustainable businesses capable of competing globally.

“We brought you here to give you a message about what it takes to build a brand that crosses borders and goes to the next generation,” Ocici said. “Even when you are operating domestically, these are the principles you must apply.”

Ocici highlighted the importance of strong business foundations, noting that many Ugandan enterprises fail not because of lack of opportunity, but due to weaknesses in management, planning, and execution.

“This programme is about fixing those fundamentals, because without them, even access to finance becomes a risk,” he said, urging entrepreneurs to avoid poor business practices that could lead to loan defaults and loss of assets.

The training, aligned with Uganda’s development agenda under the National Development Plan IV, aims to drive export-led growth and position the private sector as a key engine of economic transformation.

According to Rose Mary Mutyabule, Director for Partnerships and Business Advisory Services at Enterprise Uganda, the programme provides a comprehensive understanding of the export ecosystem.

“We have taken them through an intense three-day clinic where we expose them to all aspects of exporting from documentation and compliance to understanding international markets and logistics,” Mutyabule explained.

She added that the initiative brought together critical players, including financial institutions, insurers, and standards bodies, to ensure entrepreneurs are well-prepared to navigate export markets.

“We had bankers, insurers, and quality assurance agencies like UNBS to guide them. Exporting is complex, and we wanted them to understand the full value chain and risks involved,” she said.

The impact of the programme is expected to extend far beyond the 100 participants. Many of the entrepreneurs are engaged in value addition, meaning their businesses will create demand for raw materials, support suppliers, and strengthen local production chains.

“In terms of jobs and export revenue, we are looking at exponential growth,” Mutyabule noted. “Each exporter creates a multiplier effect across the economy.”

Enterprise Uganda plans to continue supporting the entrepreneurs through mentorship and follow-up clinics over the next three months, ensuring that the knowledge gained translates into practical outcomes.

The programme has also fostered networking and partnerships, with several participants already securing business deals, suppliers, and market connections during the training.

Ocici stressed that collaboration will be key to success, noting that partnerships with banks and other institutions are critical in helping businesses grow sustainably.

As Uganda pushes to increase its export earnings, initiatives like the Export Accelerator Programme are expected to play a crucial role in building a pipeline of competitive exporters.

With 90 entrepreneurs now equipped with export-ready skills, the country is taking a significant step toward unlocking its trade potential, expanding its presence in regional markets, and driving inclusive economic growth.