By Dismas Nuwaine
The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has been honored as a consequential partner and business enabler by the Indian Business Forum (IBF) during the association’s 10th-anniversary celebrations held at the Golf Course Hotel, Kampala.
The IBF, which empowers Indian businesses operating in Uganda, recognized URA’s instrumental role in fostering a conducive investment climate for the Indian community.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner General, Abel Kagumire, Commissioner for Executive Office Operations, expressed gratitude for the recognition, reaffirming URA’s commitment to supporting Indian investors in Uganda.
“We have made tax administration seamless for the Indian business community, offering targeted tax education, clarifying rights and obligations, and facilitating access to tax incentives, holidays, and VAT deferments where applicable,” Kagumire said.
He commended the Indian community for their significant contributions to Uganda’s economy, noting that despite making up less than 1% of the population, they drive over 60% of the country’s GDP.
“They are not only creating thousands of jobs but also strengthening Uganda’s manufacturing sector. Many of them are Advanced Economic Operators (AEOs), ensuring compliance and largely contributing their fair share to national development,” he added.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, applauded URA for its unwavering support to the business community, assuring continued government investment in digitizing tax systems for greater efficiency.
He urged Indian investors to expand their footprint in Uganda and capitalize on regional trade opportunities facilitated by various bilateral agreements within the East African Community.
“We have ambitious plans to grow Uganda’s economy tenfold by 2040, with a strategic focus on agriculture, tourism, mineral development, and science and technology. These are prime sectors for investment, and we encourage Indian businesses to align with government programs,” Tayebwa emphasized.
Indian High Commissioner to Uganda, Upender Singh Rawat, echoed this sentiment, encouraging Indian entrepreneurs to explore untapped sectors of the economy. He praised the strong diplomatic ties between Uganda and India, particularly since the ascent of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) to power.
“The return of Indian entrepreneurs expelled during Idi Amin’s regime has revitalized key industries, strengthening Uganda’s economic infrastructure and fostering a stable, growth-oriented environment,” Shekir noted.
Rajesh Kumar, Director General of IBF, thanked the Ugandan government for maintaining a business-friendly environment that has enabled enterprises to thrive. A shining example is the Mehta Group, founded in 1924 by Nanji Kalidas Mehta, who arrived in Africa from India at just 13 years old.
What started as a small venture has grown into a multi-million-dollar conglomerate, employing over 15,000 Ugandans and making a profound impact on the local economy.
Similarly, David Bahati, the Minister of State for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, said that as Uganda charts its path toward economic transformation, partnerships with investors like the Indian business community remain vital in driving sustainable growth and shared prosperity.
