HON. HUDA OLERU ABASON PRESIDES OVER GRAND OPENING OF NEC-STREIT ARMOURED VEHICLE SHOWROOM IN ENTEBBE

Entebbe, Uganda — In a major boost to Uganda's defence manufacturing capabilities, the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Huda Oleru Abason, officially presided over the grand opening of the NEC-STREIT (U) Ltd armoured vehicle showroom at Abaita Babiri, Entebbe. The milestone event signifies a new chapter in Uganda’s efforts to strengthen its internal security and build a sustainable local defence industry.

The showroom launch celebrates the strategic partnership between the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) and the globally renowned STREIT Group, through a joint venture known as NEC-STREIT (U) Ltd, for the manufacture and assembly of armoured vehicles within Uganda. The ceremony was held on behalf of Hon. Jacob Markson Oboth Oboth, Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs.

In her keynote address, Hon. Huda described the opening of the showroom as a critical investment in Uganda’s safety and sovereignty, emphasizing the government’s commitment to availing world-class security solutions for both the military and civilian sectors.

“This showroom is more than just a display center—it symbolizes Uganda’s vision to industrialize its defence sector and embrace innovation. It is a hub for knowledge-sharing, a platform for growth, and a pillar of our national security,” Hon. Huda said.

She applauded the joint venture’s establishment of a modern manufacturing facility in Nakasongola, affirming that such initiatives will not only enhance national capacity but also spur economic transformation through job creation and technology transfer.

The Minister also extended heartfelt gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his “wisdom, foresight, and unwavering dedication to peace and stability in Uganda.” She pledged continued government support towards investments in defence industries, noting that innovation and excellence in security solutions remain key to safeguarding the nation.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the STREIT Group, Mr. Guerman Goutorov, Chairman, described the showroom as a symbol of trust, resilience, and cooperation between Uganda and the international defence community. He reiterated the group’s focus on product quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, and encouraged stakeholders to visit the facility to experience firsthand the advanced technologies behind the vehicles on display.

“This marks a new era in our collaboration. NEC-STREIT is here to provide not just vehicles but assurance—safety, reliability, and unmatched performance,” said Mr. Goutorov.

The showroom’s location along the main highway to Entebbe International Airport was deliberately chosen for its strategic visibility and accessibility. The facility features a range of armoured vehicles custom-built to meet the demands of government agencies, VIP protection, and high-security transportation.

Gen. James Mugira: Deepening Defence Industrialisation

Lt Gen James Mugira, Managing Director of NEC, welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted the long-standing partnership between NEC and STREIT Group, noting that it aligns with Uganda’s broader goal of building a self-sustaining military-industrial complex.

“This showroom is a major milestone in our journey of building a viable and vibrant defence industry. It brings us closer to the end-user, allows for real-time feedback, and creates a dynamic platform for engaging with clients and demonstrating our capabilities,” Gen. Mugira stated.

He further stressed that the NEC-STREIT joint venture had already started impacting Uganda’s industrial landscape through skills development, local sourcing of materials, and integration of Ugandan expertise into global defence systems.

“This partnership reflects NEC’s commitment to President Museveni’s vision of ensuring strategic security independence through indigenous capacity. We are proud to present these vehicles—designed, assembled, and tailored for Uganda’s unique security needs,” he added.

The occasion drew an impressive assembly of senior government and military officials, including:

Maj Gen Apollo Kasita Gowa, Director of Citizenship and Immigration Control (DCIC)

Lt Gen Charles Okidi, Commander of the Air Force

Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, Chief of Joint Staff

Senior representatives from the Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, and the Bank of Uganda

Prominent members of the private sector, including Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, one of Uganda’s leading business figures

Each attendee expressed strong support for the initiative, commending NEC and STREIT Group for their strategic vision and impactful collaboration.

The launch of the NEC-STREIT armoured vehicle showroom stands as a powerful symbol of Uganda’s security ambitions and industrial growth, reaffirming the country’s status as a rising player in regional defence manufacturing. With continued backing from the Ministry of Defence and other stakeholders, NEC-STREIT is poised to become a center of excellence for secure transportation and innovative defence solutions in East Africa.