Uganda High Commission in Malaysia Launches Pearl of Africa Business Forum & Expo
The Uganda High Commission in Malaysia has officially launched the Pearl of Africa Business Forum & Expo, scheduled to take place on April 23-24, 2025, at the Renaissance Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
The event, launched at the Ministry of foreign affairs, aims to attract investment in tourism, agriculture, ICT, minerals, oil, and gas, strengthening Uganda’s economic diplomacy and positioning the country as a prime investment destination.
Speaking at the media launch, Thursday, Ambassador Elly Kamuhungi emphasized that the forum aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan, which seeks to grow the economy to $500 billion within the next 15 years.
He highlighted agro-industrialization, petroleum and mineral development, science, technology, innovation, and industrialization as the key sectors driving this transformation.
Uganda’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Betty Bigombe, called for greater media engagement in promoting economic diplomacy, stressing the need for Ugandans to understand the country’s international trade efforts. Bigombe, pointed out that many in Southeast Asia still perceive Africa as a single country, and this forum offers an opportunity to change that narrative by showcasing Uganda’s economic potential.
Additionally, she noted that Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship in 2025 presents a valuable platform for Uganda to strengthen ties with the region’s ten member states.
With Uganda’s economy growing at 6.4%, the country aims to expand further by leveraging new market opportunities. Agriculture, which remains Uganda’s economic backbone, has significant export potential in Asia, where demand for Ugandan produce is rising.
Meanwhile, as Uganda nears commercial oil production, collaboration with Malaysia known for its expertise in oil and gas could open new investment opportunities. Other key sectors for potential partnerships include ICT, tourism, and infrastructure development.
Hajji Habib Kajjimu, a Ugandan entrepreneur and economic analyst, stressed the importance of stability in achieving these goals. “Uganda can only reach this 15-year economic target if unnecessary civil conflicts do not return.
The media should focus on showcasing Uganda’s trade and investment opportunities rather than politicizing everything. That is how the entire nation will benefit,” he stated.
Ambassador Bigombe also urged government ministries, the private sector, and business leaders to actively participate in the initiative, highlighting the crucial role of the media in promoting Uganda’s economic potential.
She called on all stakeholders to take advantage of this platform to drive trade, investment, and long-term economic transformation
