UAE investors say interested in boosting Uganda cargo transport
During the meeting, the investors presented their proposal aimed at improving the handling of goods before and after arrival at dry ports, to lower the cost of doing business and enhance efficiency in regional trade.
President Museveni meeting members of Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, led by Farid Belbouab (in suite), CEO of Gulftainer. This was at Nakasero on Sunday. (PPU Photo)
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United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry investors have expressed interest in boosting Uganda’s cargo transport sector through the construction of an inland port.
Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry was established by an Amiri decree issued in 1970 by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah to effectively and vitally participate in the organisation of economic life and the prosperity of its trade, industry, agricultural, digital and professional sectors on all levels and in cooperation with the concerned establishments and bodies and local departments.
The investors made the revelation on December 14, 2025, while meeting President Yoweri Museveni at State Lodge, Nakasero in Kampala city. The group was led by Gulftainer Co Ltd chief executive officer Farid Belbouab.
During the meeting, the investors presented their proposal aimed at improving the handling of goods before and after arrival at dry ports, to lower the cost of doing business and enhance efficiency in regional trade.
The investors informed the President that they are currently negotiating with the Government of Uganda and expect to finalise the first phase of the project within the next six months.
President Museveni advised them to expedite the process.
He also emphasised the importance of such infrastructure projects, noting that they create employment opportunities and increase the consumption of essential services such as electricity and water.
“Uganda benefits from jobs as these projects employ many people, use electricity and water, and also stimulate local commerce,” President Museveni said.
The President further observed that dry ports play a critical role in easing the movement of goods and should primarily focus on facilitating efficient logistics rather than taxation.
He welcomed the initiative and pledged government support for its implementation.
“I welcome the initiative and will support it,” President Museveni remarked.
The meeting focused on enhancing trade facilitation, improving logistics infrastructure, and attracting investment into Uganda’s transport and storage sector as part of the broader efforts to promote regional integration and economic growth.