We are for open borders, says chamber
May 31, 2010
THE Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry is not opposed to the East African common market that starts on July 1.Last week, the chamber vice-president, Kasim Omar, claimed that the opening of borders would hurt Ugandan firms.
By David Mugabe
THE Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry is not opposed to the East African common market that starts on July 1.Last week, the chamber vice-president, Kasim Omar, claimed that the opening of borders would hurt Ugandan firms.
These, the chamber said in a statement, were individual views that did not represent its views or those of members.
The statement added that the business community was eagerly waiting for borders to open to enjoy opportunities presented by a 140-million people market in the five EAC states.
The chamber pointed out that although there were issues to be solved, like poor infrastructure and erratic energy, it commended the Government’s efforts to address them. Poor roads and expensive power are some of the barriers local firms argue make them less competitive in the region.
“The ongoing works on trunk roads, power dams and the 24-hour cargo handling services at Entebbe are commendable efforts that must be saluted by the private sector.â€
THE Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry is not opposed to the East African common market that starts on July 1.Last week, the chamber vice-president, Kasim Omar, claimed that the opening of borders would hurt Ugandan firms.
These, the chamber said in a statement, were individual views that did not represent its views or those of members.
The statement added that the business community was eagerly waiting for borders to open to enjoy opportunities presented by a 140-million people market in the five EAC states.
The chamber pointed out that although there were issues to be solved, like poor infrastructure and erratic energy, it commended the Government’s efforts to address them. Poor roads and expensive power are some of the barriers local firms argue make them less competitive in the region.
“The ongoing works on trunk roads, power dams and the 24-hour cargo handling services at Entebbe are commendable efforts that must be saluted by the private sector.â€