The State Minister for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, Gen. Wilson Mbadi, has called on Ugandan business owners to focus on improving the quality and compliance of their products to access the global market.
Speaking at the United Nations Business Seminar at the UN Regional Service Centre Entebbe (RSCE), Mbadi emphasized the importance of meeting international standards, particularly as the United Nations (UN) demands high-quality products from vendors worldwide, including those from developing countries.
“The UN does business with vendors globally and is actively sourcing products from developing countries and those with transitioning economies,” Mbadi said.
He also highlighted the UN’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and suppliers with disabilities, aligning with the Ugandan government’s focus on inclusive development.
To remain competitive, Mbadi urged local businesses to adopt quality management systems, ensure compliance with international standards, and incorporate sustainable practices into their operations.
In 2023, Uganda’s total procurement volume with the UN reached $199.6 million, involving 21 UN organizations.
Uganda is ranked 32nd among supplier countries by UN Procurement Value, with Ugandan suppliers to the UN Secretariat accounting for $30.79 million.
Over 7,025 Ugandan suppliers are registered on the UN Local Market Press.
Paulin Djomo, Director of Administration at the UN RSCE, emphasized the value of equal opportunities, stating that the right partnerships contribute to economic growth both locally and globally.
He also noted that Uganda’s strategic central location and proximity to UN operations give Ugandan vendors a competitive advantage.
Djomo further explained the objectives of the seminar, which attracted a diverse audience of business owners, entrepreneurs, and government officials.
The seminar provided insights into the UN procurement process, evaluation criteria, vendor registration procedures, and how to access business opportunities across various UN agencies.
With a clear focus on enhancing the quality and compliance of products, Ugandan businesses are poised to expand their presence in the global market, benefiting from opportunities within the UN system.
