In a landmark effort to deepen regional economic ties and promote intra-African trade, Sudanese entrepreneurs have launched a trade and investment forum in Uganda under the theme “Bridging Markets, Building Futures.” The initiative, which was graced by local and international investors, aims to unlock new supply chains, promote bilateral investment partnerships, and foster economic diplomacy between Sudan and Uganda.
Held in Kampala, the forum featured keynote addresses, product exhibitions, and targeted business-to-business meetings across key sectors such as agriculture, construction, textiles, logistics, ICT, and tourism. It attracted participants from across Africa, the Gulf region, and Europe.
Speaking at the event, Uganda’s Ambassador to Sudan, Amb. Dr. Rashid Yahya Ssemuddu, hailed the forum as a timely and strategic move to harness opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“We have received investors from France, different countries of Europe, and the Gulf regions,” he noted. “I want to thank the organizers and the sponsors of this wonderful event—our brothers, the Arab African Group for Investment and Trade—for their support.”
Ambassador Ssemuddu emphasized Uganda’s attractiveness as a trade and investment destination, citing its favorable macroeconomic indicators, strategic geographic location, and membership in key regional blocs such as the East African Community (EAC) and COMESA.
“We answered the question: Why invest in Uganda? We showcased our trade and export profiles, regional market access, and the vast opportunities in sectors like commercial agriculture, finance, ICT, mining, and infrastructure,” he explained.
He further highlighted Uganda’s business-friendly policies, available investment incentives, and the country’s high growth potential as strong reasons for the Sudanese community and other international investors to consider Uganda as a viable destination.
Participants at the forum expressed optimism that the event could evolve into an annual platform to advance Africa’s intra-trade ambitions, helping to realize the continent’s broader economic integration agenda.
“This launch marks a strong step towards economic diplomacy and entrepreneurial synergy,” Ambassador Ssemuddu concluded. “It sets a precedent that other African nations can follow as we strive for a united, prosperous continent through trade.”
The forum stands as a testament to the growing recognition of trade as a key pillar in Africa’s development trajectory, with Sudanese and Ugandan entrepreneurs leading by example in fostering collaboration, resilience, and shared prosperity.
