The second CEO Forum meeting took place today 1st July with numerous CEOs from both government and private entities, from production, media, NGOs and others sharing futuristic prospects for growth and development for several sectors. Interesting but not new, members raised the issue of Buy Uganda Build Uganda by requesting President Museveni to look into turning KACITA Traders from importers to exporters of Ugandan products by providing key aspects like finance and subsidies. Well, this is overdue because Ugandans are highly entrepreneurial but demotivated, frustrated by imported cheaper goods which has flooded the market.With all the presented industrial requests, it’s imperative to note that as we celebrate surplus in electricity, milk production and others, the price of electricity is relatively high compared to its production, before it was a issue in productivity but now that its in excess Ugandans still pay high price, one would wonder, does the forces of demand and supply apply? Are the stake holders involved intentionally without remorse charging the price. Companies still ask government to lower tariff on power to increase productivity.Infrastructural development incited with suggestion to expand road constructions to neighboring countries especially DRC, Mombasa, kisangani, Air cargo plane investments, railways a centre of discussion to improve exports. However how the huge figures in dollars will be financed is yet to be discussed.
Companies are encouraged to apply for financial assistance from government banks like Post Bank and Uganda Development Bank to finance development projects. However will the young budding companies be considered?
