Museveni Urges EU to Back Africa's Industrialisation As Uganda, Europe Mark 50 Years of Partnership

President Yoweri Museveni has called on the European Union and its international partners to champion Africa's industrialization and value-addition efforts. Speaking at State House Entebbe, Museveni emphasized that the continent cannot achieve genuine prosperity while primarily exporting raw materials and importing finished goods.

"Africa cannot continue exporting raw materials while importing finished products if we are to achieve prosperity for our people," Museveni stated after a meeting with Jan Sadek, the EU Ambassador to Uganda. He believes that a more industrialized Africa would foster mutual benefits, creating expanded opportunities for trade, investment, and business for both continents.

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Africa cannot continue exporting raw materials while importing finished products if we are to achieve prosperity for our people.

The meeting highlighted the deepening economic and development cooperation between Uganda and the EU. Bilateral trade has seen steady growth, reaching a record €2 billion in 2024, with Uganda maintaining a positive trade balance. The EU remains a significant source of foreign direct investment in Uganda, supporting key sectors like manufacturing, energy, and agriculture.

Ambassador Sadek's tenure has seen increased engagement, focusing on trade promotion, infrastructure, green energy, and private sector growth. Initiatives like the Uganda-EU Business Forum have strengthened business-to-business partnerships. The EU has also provided substantial financing for energy and transport projects under its Global Gateway strategy, including investments in hydropower and renewable energy.

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A richer and more prosperous Africa is good for business, investment, and trade for both our continents.