Uganda and Malawi launched their first Uganda-Malawi Business Forum in Lilongwe to promote trade, investment, and regional collaboration. Officials highlighted opportunities in agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and technology, including Uganda’s motor vehicle plant, which produces 5,000 vehicles annually. Participants discussed leveraging COMESA, SADC, and AfCFTA frameworks to expand markets and integrate value chains. The forum also marked the launch of Malawi Airlines’ four weekly flights to Uganda, enhancing business, tourism, and transport connectivity.

MTN Uganda, in partnership with MTN Mobile Money Uganda, ATC Uganda, dfcu Bank, and The Innovation Village, opened applications for the second cohort of its Advancing Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) programme. The initiative supports women-led businesses through procurement opportunities, mentorship, subsidized financing, and technical training. Eligible enterprises must be at least 50% women-owned, operational for one year, and generate at least UGX 60 million annually. The programme runs until December 20, 2025, across all regions of Uganda.

President William Ruto announced that Kenya and Uganda will jointly acquire shares in the Kenya Pipeline Company as part of a regional investment plan, with Kenya divesting 65% of its stake through a public listing. Ruto also confirmed the January 2026 launch of the Standard Gauge Railway extension from Naivasha to Kampala and onward to Rwanda and the DRC, alongside a joint pipeline extension. The projects aim to strengthen regional trade, integration, and infrastructure connectivity.

Uganda aims to boost processed agricultural exports to $20 billion annually by 2040, targeting products such as beef, dairy, coffee, and animal feeds. Minister Amos Lugoloobi highlighted strategies, including the Economic and Commercial Diplomacy Strategy, investment in processing, and leveraging regional trade and the African Continental Free Trade Area. President Yoweri Museveni flagged off Uganda’s first dried chili shipment to China, supported by technical training from Chinese agricultural experts, marking a step toward expanding international market access.

Uganda’s national mineral testing laboratory is nearing global accreditation, which officials say is 93% complete, allowing companies to analyze samples locally instead of shipping them abroad. Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa announced the progress at the Organisation of African Geological Surveys meeting in Entebbe. OAGS leaders highlighted the need for stronger geological knowledge, technical cooperation, and capacity building across Africa. The certification is expected to cut costs and bolster investor confidence in Uganda’s mining sector.

Uganda invited Australian investors to its fast-growing economy, highlighting a 7% growth rate, political stability, and a young, skilled workforce. Speaking during the 60th anniversary of Uganda-Australia diplomatic ties in Kampala, Minister of State for Privatization and Investment Evelyn Anite emphasized the importance of investment-led cooperation, government support for businesses, and key economic sectors. Australian High Commissioner Jenny Da Rin and new Honorary Consul David Mpanga reaffirmed their commitments to strengthen trade and financial partnerships.