President Yoweri Museveni commissioned the Kiira Vehicle Plant in Jinja on September 26. It is Uganda’s most advanced bus and truck manufacturing facility. The plant produces 2,500 vehicles annually and holds international Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) certification. It includes a full production line and a design and engineering unit. The project aims for 65% local content by 2030, reduce vehicle imports by over $800 million, and create more than 14,000 jobs.

Uganda launched a roadmap to boost agricultural trade by tackling cross-border inefficiencies. The Private Sector Foundation Uganda and AGRA led a multi-stakeholder dialogue to identify key issues. A study at major border posts found that non-tariff barriers, delays, and poor infrastructure cost the economy over $95 million yearly. Stakeholders committed to reforming trade policies, financing, and cooperatives to improve regional market access, cut losses, and strengthen Uganda’s role in agricultural trade.

Uganda and Italy expanded cooperation through two major agreements focusing on private sector growth and coffee industry development. Italy committed €1.7 million to support Ugandan entrepreneurs via a UNIDO-led capacity-building project. Separately, Uganda secured a €120 million concessional loan from the Italian Climate Fund to strengthen climate resilience in coffee production. Both initiatives aim to enhance value addition, create jobs, and align with broader strategies for sustainable development and international trade.

Uganda’s shilling appreciated 3.7% over the past year, rising from Shs3,723.65 in August 2024 to Shs3,586.57 in July 2025. Traders expect continued strength in the short term, supported by month-end inflows from commodity exporters and NGOs. Exchange activity remains orderly, with narrow spreads and rising market depth. Economists cite steady inflows, moderate import demand, and disciplined monetary policy, though external factors like US monetary policy could influence the currency.