Ugandans abroad gain direct link to home construction market

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Roofings Group has launched a new e-commerce platform aimed at transforming access to construction materials.

The initiative is expected to improve access to quality building materials for Ugandans, particularly those in the diaspora, by enabling direct purchases from the company’s Uganda-based facilities.

Dr Sikander Lalani, chairman of Roofings Group, said the platform is designed to serve a large, underserved diaspora market by simplifying the process of buying construction materials remotely.

Lalani, who was addressing journalists at Roofings Rolling Mills in Namanve on March 18, 2026, commended the government and Ugandans for their continued support.

"We are here today because of the people of Uganda," he said. "Our success story is a reflection of the trust and loyalty from you, both at home and abroad."

Company CEO Sheikh Arif expressed optimism about the platform’s potential to streamline access to products.

"The world is at our fingertips today. We wanted to make it easier for our customers, especially those living abroad, to get our products without the hassle of intermediaries," he explained.

The platform is expected to address challenges associated with middlemen, including inflated prices and the distribution of substandard products.

Joseph Arinaitwe, sales and marketing manager, highlighted the role of remittances in construction.

"A significant portion of money sent home from the diaspora goes into construction," he said.

"Our platform will offer a direct connection between these customers and us, ensuring transparency and eliminating the risk of fraud."

Sheikh Arif (centre), the company CEO, and on the left and right are the company executives. (Photo by Damba Tadeo)

The launch comes amid growing demand for online procurement solutions in sectors traditionally reliant on physical transactions.

Roofings Group has partnered with global technology firm Tech Mahindra to support the platform, which will allow customers to browse products, compare prices, place orders, and make payments online.

The company says the move is part of broader efforts to improve efficiency, transparency and customer experience in the construction supply chain.

About Roofings Group

Founded in 2008, Roofings Group is one of Uganda’s largest manufacturers of steel and roofing products.

With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, the company continues to expand its footprint in East Africa’s construction industry.