Uganda, Qatar hold business forum to enhance economic and diplomatic ties

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"Uganda offers vast opportunities in agro-industrialisation, manufacturing, tourism, and infrastructure supported by a youthful workforce, political stability, and regional market access,” Vincent Bagiire, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said on Monday.

The PS was delivering a keynote address during the Second edition of the Uganda-Qatar Business Forum at Rotana City Centre, Doha.

The event was organised under the theme: “Uganda and Qatar in Partnership for Shared Economic Development.”

A release from the ministry states that the high-level forum attracted senior officials, investors, and private-sector leaders from both Uganda and Qatar.

During the opening, Bagiire reaffirmed Uganda’s strong commitment to economic and commercial diplomacy as a vehicle for growth.

He added that Uganda remains open for business and welcomes strategic partners like Qatar. 

“Uganda’s doors are open to investors who share our vision for sustainable growth,” Bagiire said.

Bagiire commended the Uganda mission in Doha for strengthening Uganda’s global investment presence and urged participants to convert dialogue into real partnerships that create jobs and prosperity for both nations.

Dr. Stephen Chebrot, Ambassador of Uganda to Qatar, noted that the forum reflects Uganda’s growing engagement with Qatar under the framework of commercial diplomacy, focused on expanding trade, investment, and tourism linkages.

The MoFA release adds that highlights at the opening included a panel discussion featuring senior representatives from the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority (UZEPA), and Uganda Tourism Board (UTB). 

The agencies showcased Uganda’s investment incentives, export opportunities, and tourism potential under the “Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa” brand, encouraging Qatari investors to explore partnerships across key sectors.

One of the delegates, Mohammed Massami, Chairman of KON Group, commended the progress in Uganda–Qatar trade and investment cooperation.

“In the past decade, Uganda’s exports to Qatar have grown from USD 20 million to USD 34 million, while Qatar’s exports to Uganda have increased from USD 17 million to USD 26 million,” he said.

“This growth reflects how our partnership has evolved from ideas to reality, now supported by increased weekly flights between Uganda and Qatar.”

Massami, who revealed that he first visited Uganda in 2022 to explore USD 10 million worth of investment opportunities in agro-processing and mineral development, also applauded the ongoing diplomatic efforts that have paved the way for stronger bilateral engagement.

“The forthcoming establishment of the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Uganda marks a new chapter of cooperation.

“The investment partnership between Uganda and Qatar is not just a destination but a true commitment to deepening economic and diplomatic relations," he added.

According to organisers, the Uganda–Qatar Business Forum continues to serve as a vital platform for strengthening economic diplomacy, promoting trade and investment, and fostering lasting partnerships between Uganda and the State of Qatar.