OPINION

By Ali Saleh O Alswayeh

I wish to begin this article by expressing my gratitude to President of Uganda Yoweri Museveni, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Jeje Odongo and the chief co-ordinator (CC) of Operation Wealth Creation for appointing me as the Uganda Adviser on Trade, Investment and Overseas Employment in Saudi Arabia working alongside the Ugandan Embassy in Riyadh.

In a noteworthy development aimed at strengthening Uganda’s trade relations with Saudi Arabia, the Government of Uganda through Ministry of Foreign Affairs has spearheaded the inauguration of the Uganda Advisor on Trade and Investment in Saudi Arabia.

This strategic move underscores Uganda’s determination to expand its footprint in the Middle East, with a particular focus on Saudi Arabia — a region increasingly displaying an appetite for Ugandan exports.

In a world marked by dynamic changes in the global economy, nations are actively seeking new trade partners, and Uganda is taking a proactive stance to tap into the Middle East’s burgeoning demands.

Saudi Arabia, known for its discerning taste for Ugandan agricultural products, including fruits, vegetables, livestock, spices, milk, grains and nuts, represents a prime market for Uganda’s exports.

The newly established Uganda Advisor on Trade, Investment and Overseas Employment in Saudi Arabia working alongside the Ugandan Embassy in Riyadh plays a pivotal role in this endeavour.

It emphasises the significance of strengthening economic ties between the two nations, underscoring that this collaboration will not only benefit Uganda but also contribute to the socio-economic development of both countries.

“The inauguration of the Uganda Advisor on Trade, Investment and Overseas Employment in Saudi Arabia working alongside the Ugandan Embassy in Riyadh in Saudi Arabia is a testament to our commitment to fostering robust trade relations between Uganda and Saudi Arabia.

“This initiative will create an avenue for our businesses to explore new opportunities and markets in Saudi Arabia, while also opening doors for Saudi investors looking to invest in Uganda,” as stated by the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

As a seasoned Saudi Arabi-based global business man and investor, Uganda’s Advisory portfolio on Trade and Investment in Saudi Arabia, will serve as a bridge between the two nations, facilitating trade discussions, providing market insights, and offering guidance to Ugandan businesses seeking to enter the Saudi market.

This role is instrumental, given the growing demand in Saudi Arabia for high-quality Ugandan products.

Saudi Arabia has already become a significant trading partner for Uganda, importing a wide range of agricultural products. The quality and freshness of Ugandan products have gained considerable traction in the Saudi market, providing Ugandan businesses with a competitive edge.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs highlighted the immense potential for expanding the scope of trade, noting,

“The Saudi market presents a vast opportunity for Ugandan farmers and entrepreneurs. Our country is blessed with fertile soil and a favourable climate, making it possible to produce a wide variety of agricultural products that cater to the demands of the Saudi market.”

Uganda’s proactive approach to diversify exports and strengthen global trade relations is exemplified through the inauguration of the Uganda Advisor on Trade, Investment, and Overseas Employment in Saudi Arabia.

This strategic move aims at providing Ugandan producers with easier access to the thriving Saudi market, facilitating seamless trade.

Moreover, it anticipates drawing Saudi investments into Uganda, fostering opportunities across agriculture, infrastructure and technology.

In conclusion, this inauguration marks a significant stride in solidifying trade relations between Uganda and Saudi Arabia.

With a growing demand for Ugandan agricultural products, this initiative promises to bolster Uganda’s economy and enhance bilateral relations. The partnership aligns with the visions of both nations — Saudi Vision 2030 and Uganda’s Vision 2040 — emphasizing economic growth, cultural exchange and government collaboration.

The collaboration is poised to generate professional jobs for Ugandan migrant workers and ensure the well-being of Ugandan nationals employed in Saudi Arabia, reinforcing the bonds of friendship and co-operation between these two nations.

The writer is a Ugandan Government Advisor on Trade, Investment and Overseas Employment to Saudi Arabia, a global Investor and chairman of the Ingaz Group of Companies based in Saudi Arabia