Col Nakalema showcases Uganda's investment potential at UK-Africa summit

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The Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col Edith Nakalema, has underscored the role of transparency and accountability in promoting investments in a country.

According to Col Nakalema, investor confidence hinges on predictable regulation, fair processes and robust oversight.

“Transparent governance reduces risk perception, lowers borrowing costs and mobilises capital, whereas accountability mechanisms deter misuse, thus strengthening institutional trust,” she said.

(Courtesy)

Col Nakalema made the remarks on Friday, September 12, 2025, while delivering a closing message of assurance to investors on behalf of Uganda’s leadership during the UK-Africa Business Summit 2025, London.

The UK-Africa Business Summit, Trade and Investment was established to strengthen commercial, diplomatic and development ties between the UK and African nations. Now in its 15th year, the summit provides a high-level platform for government leaders, investors, entrepreneurs and diaspora stakeholders to explore trade and investment opportunities.

She underscored Uganda’s commitment to protecting investors through an enabling investment climate created by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government through the able leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

Col Nakalema also revealed that as SHIPU, technology is key in their operations.

“Digital documentation reduces physical paperwork, expedites processing times, and minimises the potential for human error, whereas secure communication ensures the confidentiality and integrity of all exchanges, protecting investors from potential cyber fraud. Real-time investment insights also enable investors to receive immediate updates on the investment process, protection and support.”

During the same event, Uganda was lauded as the best investment destination and SHIPU’s Investors Protection Portal (EIPP) was referred to as a great investment catalyst due to its efficiency.

“Uganda’s Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) capture leads the East African Community with 24 percent of the total regional foreign direct investment between 2019-2023,” she added.

“Uganda was consistently named Africa’s top investment destination by AIM UAE in both 2023 and 2024, and also the investment catalyst award at the Go Global Awards in 2023 by the International Trade Council. This reflects investor confidence in policy stability and market reforms.”

Col Nakalema further noted that as stakeholders, they can build a prosperity bridge between Uganda and the UK that transforms both economies while establishing new standards for international investment partnerships in Africa.

In his welcome remarks, the founder and chairman, UK-Africa Summit, Mr Willy Mutenza, said this year's programme continues to build on their core priorities, with a sharper focus on practical solutions and partnerships that deliver measurable outcomes.

“Our engagement now extends beyond our long-standing trade relationship with the UK to include new and dynamic partners in Türkiye, India, the Caribbean, and across Africa and Europe. In Africa, we are actively promoting intra-continental trade, supporting regional integration and growth led by African enterprises and institutions,” he said.

“We meet at a critical moment for global trade. Renewed tariffs from the United States under President Trump, alongside shifting geopolitical alliances, are reshaping how business is done across borders.”

Mr Mutenza noted that despite these challenges, Africa’s resilience continues to define its outlook.

“With expanding markets, a youthful population, and growing infrastructure, the continent holds vast potential for investors seeking long-term opportunity,” he said.

“This summit brings together global and regional voices committed to that vision.”

Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba - Deputy Governor, Bank of Uganda, also made a much-appreciated presentation on Uganda’s steadfast economic growth.

1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga in a group photo with other the Ugandan delegation. (Courtesy)

The summit was also attended by  Uganda’s senior leaders, who included the 1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Community Affairs, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, Gen. David Muhoozi, the Permanent Secretary, Internal Affairs Ministry, Lt Gen. Joseph Musanyufu, the Director Citizenship & Immigration Control, Maj. Gen. Apollo Kasiita-Gowa, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) Chief Executive Officer, Ms Juliana Kagwa, among others.