The China-Africa Industrial Capacity Cooperation Exposition is on at the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) showground at Lugogo in Kampala. This is the first time the Expo is being held in Uganda.
The Chinese Ambassador to Uganda, Zheng Zhuqiang, presided over the opening ceremony, flanked by the Ag. Director-General of Uganda Investment Authority, Mr. Lawrence Byensi, and the Head of Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ms. Olive Kigongo.
Forty three (43) Chinese companies (manufacturers, constructors, traders, etc.) are displaying what they do and have on offer, as they engage potential Ugandan clients.
In his speech, Amb. Zhuqiang said Uganda has a lot to benefit from China’s innovations, technology and equipment. He said Uganda now ranks third in Africa in foreign direct investments (FDI) from China.
UIA’s Byensi reported that in 2018/19 the Agency licensed Chinese projects with planned investments of 1.2 billion dollars and 42,000 planned jobs.
Ms. Kigongo urged Ugandans and Chinese participating in the Expo to deepen trade and investment relations between the two countries.
What is evident is that the Chinese are passionate about investing in Uganda. On display are items like trucks, agro-processing equipment, household items, engineering capabilities and solar-powered umbrellas and bags, amongst others.
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