NEC, NORINCO Hold High-Level Talks in Kampala to Advance Uganda–China Defence and Industrial Partnership

Kampala, Uganda — The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) has taken another significant step in strengthening Uganda’s defence and industrial capacity following high-level talks with a delegation from China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO).

The meeting, held at NEC Headquarters in Bugolobi, was hosted by NEC Managing Director Lt Gen James Mugira, who welcomed the visiting delegation led by NORINCO Vice President Mr. Qiang Wenyu. The Chinese team is in Uganda for a week-long series of strategic engagements aimed at expanding cooperation in defence production, technology, and industrial development.

Strengthening Uganda–China Relations

Lt Gen Mugira described the visit as a reflection of the deep-rooted and steadily growing relationship between Uganda and China. He highlighted that diplomatic relations between the two countries date back to 1962, the year Uganda attained independence, noting that China was among the earliest nations to establish formal ties with Kampala.

According to Mugira, this longstanding partnership has evolved into a multifaceted collaboration spanning infrastructure development, trade, investment, and technology transfer. He emphasized that the relationship is anchored on mutual respect, solidarity, and a shared vision for economic transformation.

“China remains one of Uganda’s largest trading partners,” Mugira noted, pointing out that Uganda imports machinery, electronics, textiles, and construction materials, while exporting agricultural commodities such as coffee, fish, and minerals.

Infrastructure and Industrial Impact

The NEC Managing Director credited Chinese firms with playing a pivotal role in Uganda’s infrastructure growth. He cited flagship projects such as the Karuma Hydropower Station and Isimba Hydropower Station, as well as the expansion of Entebbe International Airport, as transformative investments that have significantly improved the country’s energy capacity and connectivity.

Beyond infrastructure, Mugira underscored the role of Chinese companies in boosting Uganda’s manufacturing base and creating employment opportunities, contributing to broader industrialization efforts.

Expanding Defence Cooperation

On defence collaboration, Mugira highlighted China’s continued support to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) through training, equipment supply, and joint industrial ventures.

He specifically pointed to NORINCO’s involvement in the construction and equipping of the Luwero ammunition facility, a key installation under Luwero Industries. He also referenced the establishment of Kyoga Dynamics in partnership with Chinese firm China Wan Bao, as a milestone in Uganda’s journey toward self-reliance in defence production.

“These partnerships are not only strengthening our defence capabilities but also contributing to skills transfer and technological advancement,” Mugira said.

Commitment to Future Collaboration

Speaking on behalf of the Chinese delegation, NORINCO Vice President Qiang Wenyu expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Uganda.

He noted that over the past four decades, NORINCO and its Ugandan partners have built practical and results-oriented collaboration across multiple sectors. He revealed that the current visit has involved detailed discussions on future joint initiatives, particularly in technology development and industrial expansion.

“We have reached important understandings on advancing our cooperation to a higher level,” Qiang said, emphasizing the shared commitment to sustaining a long-term partnership built on mutual benefit.

Strategic Engagements Continue

The NORINCO delegation is expected to continue its engagements in Uganda throughout the week, meeting key stakeholders in government and industry as both sides explore new opportunities for collaboration.

Among those who attended the meeting was Maj Gen Sabiiti Muzeyi, General Manager of Luwero Industries, alongside other senior officials from the defence and industrial sectors.

A Partnership with Long-Term Vision

The engagement between NEC and NORINCO underscores Uganda’s broader strategy to leverage international partnerships to accelerate industrialization, strengthen defence self-sufficiency, and enhance economic resilience.

As Uganda continues to position itself as a regional hub for manufacturing and strategic production, collaborations such as this are expected to play a central role in shaping the country’s industrial future while reinforcing its longstanding ties with China.