UGANDA PEARL OF AFRICA BUSINESS FORUM AND EXPO 2025 CONCLUDES SUCCESSFULLY IN KUALA LUMPUR
April 23–24, 2025 | Renaissance Hotel Kuala Lumpur
The Uganda High Commission in Kuala Lumpur proudly hosted the Pearl of Africa Business Forum and Expo 2025, a landmark two-day event that spotlighted Uganda's dynamic investment landscape, sustainable development goals, and expanding bilateral ties with Malaysia and the broader ASEAN region.
Distinguished Delegation and Strategic Engagements.
The forum welcomed a high-level Ugandan delegation, including:
• Hon. Matia Kasaija, Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development
• Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development
• Hon. Bright Kanyontore Rwamirama, Minister of State for Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (Animal Industry)
• Ambassador Charles Ssentongo, Chief of Protocol, Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Ambassador Richard Kabonero, Special Envoy for Diaspora Affairs
• Mrs. Susan Muhwezi, Senior Presidential Adviser on Trade and Industry
• Mr. Robert Mukiza, Director General, Uganda Investment Authority
• Mrs. Olive Zaitun Kigongo, President and CEO, Uganda National Chamber of Commerce, and Industry
• Mr. Francis Kisirinya, Executive Director, Private Sector Foundation Uganda
Their presence underscored Uganda's commitment to fostering robust economic partnerships and showcased the nation's readiness to engage with global investors.
Malaysia-Uganda Collaboration: A Shared Vision.
The event featured a gala dinner officiated by Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, Malaysia's Minister of Agriculture and Food Security. In his address, he emphasized the potential for deepened economic engagement, stating:
“We are truly honoured to host this significant event-one that lays a solid foundation for deeper economic engagement, enriched people-to-people connections, and enduring collaboration.”
He further highlighted the ambition to surpass the USD 358.13 million in bilateral trade recorded last year.
Hon. Matia Kasaija invited attendees to witness Uganda's progress firsthand:
“Come and see Uganda for yourself. Seeing is believing. Too often, Africa is painted with a broad brush. Uganda is a peaceful, vibrant, and fast-growing country. We are here to show you the truth.”
Showcasing Uganda’s Economic Potential
The forum highlighted Uganda's strategic sectors:
• Energy: Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa announced the commencement of oil drilling activities, upcoming refinery developments, and new exploration blocks. She emphasized Uganda's openness to private participation, especially in solar, geothermal, and nuclear energy, supported by a robust regulatory framework.
• Agriculture: Uganda presented its rich agricultural offerings, including vanilla, coffee, cocoa, bananas, and palm oil, positioning itself as a valuable trade partner for Malaysia's agribusiness sector.
Datuk Muhtar Hashim, Executive Director of the Chemical Industries Council of Malaysia, drew parallels between Uganda's industrial journey and Malaysia's own, noting significant opportunities in renewable and sustainable sectors.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Economic Cooperation.
The event facilitated government-to-government (G2G) and business-to-business (B2B) sessions, featuring meetings with Deputy Minister of MITI Liew Chin Tong, representatives from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), and industry leaders from both nations. Discussions encompassed logistics, connectivity improvements, and the establishment of new direct flight routes to enhance trade and tourism.
Her Excellency Dr. Betty Oyella Bigombe, Uganda's High Commissioner to Malaysia, emphasized the potential for collaboration in common industries, reinforcing the shared vision for sustainable development.
Datuk Irwin Cheong, Co-founder of the World-One Business Federation and leader of the forum's organization, concluded the event with a message of unity:
“This forum and expo is a celebration—not just of shared opportunity, but of shared purpose. We hope the conversations started here will continue, deepen, and take root in tangible collaboration.”
Looking Ahead
The Pearl of Africa Business Forum and Expo 2025 has solidified its role as a pivotal platform for strengthening Uganda-Malaysia relations, promoting sustainable economic growth, and unlocking East Africa's vast potential. The Uganda High Commission extends its heartfelt appreciation to all partners, stakeholders, and participants who contributed to the success of this landmark event.
