Uganda is seeking to attract more Italian investors into key sectors of its economy, with Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja highlighting the country's investment opportunities during a business forum in Rome.
Nabbanja made the appeal while opening the inaugural Uganda-Italy Business and Investment Forum, a two-day event aimed at strengthening economic relations between the two countries.
In a statement following the opening ceremony, the prime minister said she had presented Uganda as an attractive investment destination, citing its investment climate, expanding transport infrastructure and growing economy.
She also highlighted the services offered by the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), which provides investors with access to investment-related services under one roof.
Nabbanja said the arrangements were intended to make it easier for potential investors to explore business opportunities and establish operations in the country.
"I commend the existing warm relations between our two countries," she said, expressing optimism that the forum would strengthen cooperation between Uganda and Italy.
The prime minister urged Italian investors to consider opportunities in sectors identified by the Ugandan government as critical to economic growth and industrial development.
These include agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral-based industrialisation, science, technology and innovation.
Agro-industrialisation is a key area for Uganda as the country seeks to increase the value of agricultural products through processing, manufacturing and other value-addition activities rather than relying primarily on raw commodity exports.
Tourism also remains an important sector, with Uganda seeking to attract investment that can support tourism infrastructure, hospitality services and the wider visitor economy.
In mineral-based industrialisation, the government is looking to expand the processing of mineral resources to create more value locally, while investments in science, technology and innovation could support productivity and the development of new industries.
Nabbanja's appeal comes as Uganda continues to pursue international partnerships to attract capital, support industrial growth and create economic opportunities.
The Rome forum provides a platform for Ugandan officials and Italian business representatives to explore areas of mutual interest and identify potential investment partnerships.
The prime minister said she looked forward to welcoming investors from Italy, signalling the government's readiness to engage businesses interested in entering the Ugandan market.
The two-day meeting is expected to provide an opportunity to showcase Uganda's investment priorities and strengthen commercial links between the two countries.