Embarking on the East Africa Trade and Investment Forum, hosted by the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU): a momentous occasion where Uganda, as the incoming NAM Chair, takes center stage for the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the 3rd South Summits. With a membership exceeding 330 business associations and major public sector agencies, PSFU has been a catalyst for private sector growth since its establishment in 1995.
Themed “Deeper Cooperation in Trade, Tourism, and Investment for Shared Global Affluence,” the forum commences with the promise of transformative discussions. Below the detailed opening remarks;
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Hon Ministers
Captains of the industry
Business Leaders from the NAM& countries
Esteemed guests,
Members of the press,
Ladies and Gentlemen
About PSFU:
Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) is Uganda’s apex body for the private sector. It is made up of over 330 business associations, corporate bodies, and the major public sector agencies that support private sector growth.
Since its founding in 1995, PSFU has served as a focal point for private sector advocacy as well as capacity building and continues to sustain a positive policy dialogue with the Government on behalf of the private sector. PSFU aims to strengthen Private Sector capacity for effective policy advocacy and market competitiveness nationally, regionally, and internationally. Regionally, PSFU is the national focal point for the East African Business Council (EABC), the African Continental Free Trade Area, (AfCTA), and the COMESA Business Council (CBC).
I, on behalf of the Private Sector Foundation Uganda, Welcome you to Uganda- the Pearl of Africa, and this historic gathering of nations at the East Africa Trade and Investment Forum that is happening on the sidelines of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the 3rd South Summits
As Chairman of the Private Sector Foundation Uganda, it is my profound honor to stand before you today on the cusp of this momentous occasion. Uganda, as the incoming NAM Chair and the very first host of both summits in history, embraces the responsibility and opportunity to spark a new era of collaboration and prosperity within the South-South community.
For decades, the NAM and the G77 have stood as beacons of solidarity and collective bargaining power for developing nations. Now, as the world navigates an ever-changing landscape, the time is ripe to translate those principles into tangible economic progress.
This forum serves as a potent catalyst for that transformation. Over the next four days, we will delve into the vibrant tapestry of trade, tourism, and investment potential that binds us together. We will forge new partnerships, unlock lucrative opportunities, and pave the way for shared global affluence.
The theme of our forum, “Deeper Cooperation in Trade, Tourism and Investment for Shared Global Affluence,” resonates deeply with the spirit of both NAM and the G77. It is a clarion call to action, urging us to leverage our strengths and forge a collective economic destiny.
As the private sector, we stand ready to be the engine of this progress. We are the builders, the innovators, the risk-takers who translate ideas into tangible prosperity. This forum provides us with an unparalleled platform to showcase our capabilities, connect with diverse partners, and unlock transformative deals.
I am confident that the coming days will be brimming with fruitful discussions, insightful presentations, and groundbreaking partnerships. We will hear from visionary leaders, engage in thought-provoking panel discussions, and witness the signing of agreements that will reshape the economic landscape of our nations.
Let us seize this opportunity with audacious vision and unwavering commitment. Let us embrace the spirit of South-South cooperation, not as a mere slogan, but as a powerful tool to empower our businesses, strengthen our economies, and secure a brighter future for generations to come.
We, the private sector, stand united in our resolve to make this forum a resounding success. We believe in the transformative power of trade, tourism, and investment, and we are ready to work hand-in-hand with our governments, investors, and fellow businesses to unlock unprecedented potential.
May this forum be a launchpad for a new era of collaboration, innovation, and shared prosperity. May the bonds we forge here extend far beyond these conference halls, weaving a powerful tapestry of economic progress that benefits every member of our great South-South family.
Thank you, and welcome to the East Africa Trade and Investment Forum.”
