President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Advocates for Africa’s Economic Transformation at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025

President Museveni passionately advocated for Africa’s transformation into a global economic powerhouse, urging investors worldwide to capitalize on the continent’s abundant natural resources, growing markets, and human potential.

Jan 16, 2025 - 11:27
Jan 16, 2025 - 11:45
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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Advocates for Africa’s Economic Transformation at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025
President Museveni delivers his speech in Abu Dhabi, UAE
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Advocates for Africa’s Economic Transformation at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Advocates for Africa’s Economic Transformation at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Advocates for Africa’s Economic Transformation at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025

Abu Dhabi, UAE – On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, Uganda's President, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, delivered a powerful address at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025 Summit, highlighting Uganda’s economic progress, Africa’s untapped potential, and the continent’s readiness to embrace sustainable development. In his keynote speech, President Museveni passionately advocated for Africa’s transformation into a global economic powerhouse, urging investors worldwide to capitalize on the continent’s abundant natural resources, growing markets, and human potential.

Uganda’s Journey of Transformation

President Museveni began by recounting Uganda’s socio-economic evolution. From a subsistence agricultural economy in 1900 to its current status as a lower middle-income country, Uganda has undergone significant transformation. He outlined five critical phases that have defined the nation’s development under his leadership since 1986:

Restoring the 3Cs and 3Ts Economy: Uganda’s initial focus was to revive its traditional export products—coffee, cotton, copper, tea, tobacco, and tourism—that had suffered during periods of political instability.

Expanding the Economic Base: The government prioritized increasing production and exports in these sectors.

Diversifying the Economy: New commercial ventures such as fruits, bananas, fish, dairy, beef, and sugar were introduced to broaden the economic base.

Value Addition: Uganda has begun adding value to its raw materials by producing finished goods, such as textiles, dairy products, and sugar, for both local and international markets.

Knowledge-Based Economy: President Museveni emphasized Uganda’s ambitions to enter the knowledge economy, producing innovative products like automobiles and vaccines.

Thanks to these strategies, Uganda’s economy has grown from a mere $4 billion in 1986 to $55 billion in 2025 by foreign exchange rates, or $168.5 billion by purchasing power parity (PPP). However, President Museveni reiterated his government’s commitment to expanding this growth to $500 billion by adding value to its vast array of raw materials.

Africa’s Vast Potential and Regional Integration

Museveni positioned Uganda as a gateway to Africa’s immense economic opportunities. As a member of the East African Community (EAC), with a combined population of 300 million people, Uganda also benefits from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which integrates a market of 1.4 billion people. By 2050, Africa’s population is projected to reach 2.5 billion, presenting a vast and growing consumer base.

“The internal market of Uganda, with 46 million people, is not enough to support large-scale production. That is why regional and continental integration is critical,” Museveni said. “Uganda already has surpluses in products like maize, milk, beef, bananas, and textiles. Without the East African and African markets, our economy could not grow sustainably.”

He invited international investors to seize these opportunities, emphasizing Africa’s readiness for partnerships. “The internal rate of return (IRR) in Uganda is 14.1%. Investing here guarantees access to a lucrative and growing market,” he assured.

Investing in Infrastructure and Human Capital

President Museveni underscored the importance of infrastructure and human capital development in sustaining economic growth. His government has made significant investments in electricity generation, road construction, and education, as well as health services. These foundational efforts are critical to creating a skilled and healthy population, capable of driving industrialization and innovation.

The Role of Sustainable Development

Speaking at a summit dedicated to sustainability, Museveni highlighted Uganda’s efforts to align with global sustainable development goals. He emphasized the country’s commitment to transitioning from raw material exports to value-added manufacturing, which reduces waste and enhances economic resilience.

He also acknowledged the environmental challenges that Africa faces, particularly due to climate change, and called for collective action. “Africa is ready to contribute to global sustainability, but this must be a shared responsibility,” he said.

A Call for Global Collaboration

President Museveni concluded his address with a call for win-win partnerships. Reflecting on the historical injustices Africa has endured, he emphasized the importance of avoiding exploitative practices and focusing on mutual benefit. “We believe in solutions that uplift all of humanity,” he said.

Museveni’s speech was a powerful reminder of Africa’s growing influence in the global economy. His vision for Uganda and the continent at large reflects a blend of pragmatism and ambition, emphasizing the role of leadership, innovation, and partnerships in shaping a prosperous future.

As Uganda prepares for its next phase of growth, President Museveni’s address at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week Summit 2025 reaffirmed his government’s commitment to transforming Uganda into a first-world country while contributing to Africa’s collective prosperity.

John Kusolo John Kusolo is a Ugandan Journalist, Sport fanatic, Tourist, Pastor, and Motivational Speaker. * Journalist: He works for Nile Chronicles News, NCN. * Passion: Known for his dedication to his work and strong motivation. * Ambitious: He sets goals for himself and strives to achieve them. * Enjoys challenges: He thrives in challenging situations.