President Yoweri Museveni has endorsed a proposal by investors from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to develop an inland port in Uganda, a move expected to strengthen cargo transport, reduce logistics costs and boost regional trade across East Africa.

The President met a delegation from the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry at State Lodge, Nakasero, where the investors presented plans to improve cargo handling before and after arrival at dry ports. The delegation was led by Farid Belbouab, Chief Executive Officer of Gulftainer Co. Ltd, an international port and logistics operator.

“I welcome the initiative and will support it,” President Museveni said, emphasizing the importance of modern logistics infrastructure in driving economic growth and regional integration.

Bukasa Inland Port to Improve Cargo Movement

The proposed Bukasa Inland Port, located in Mukono District, is intended to provide cargo storage, customs clearance and consolidation services closer to production and consumption centers. According to the investors, the project will ease congestion along major trade corridors and improve the movement of goods to Kenya, South Sudan, Sudan and other regional markets.

Uganda, a landlocked country, relies heavily on the Northern Corridor linking the Port of Mombasa in Kenya to Uganda and neighboring countries. High transit costs and delays along this route have increased the need for efficient inland ports and logistics hubs.

Investors Target Six-Month Timeline

The investors told President Museveni that negotiations with the Government of Uganda are ongoing and that they expect to finalize the first phase of the project within the next six months. The President urged them to expedite the process, noting that logistics infrastructure plays a critical role in supporting trade and investment.

He added that inland ports should focus on efficient cargo movement rather than taxation, arguing that smoother logistics reduce the cost of doing business for traders and manufacturers.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

President Museveni highlighted the wider economic benefits of the proposed inland port, saying such projects create employment opportunities and stimulate demand for utilities such as electricity and water.

“Uganda benefits from jobs created by these projects, as well as increased business activity,” the President noted.

Uganda’s trade volumes have continued to grow, driven by exports such as coffee, tea, gold and manufactured goods, alongside rising imports of fuel, fertilizers and machinery. The East African Community (EAC) remains a key destination for Uganda’s regional trade.

UAE–Uganda Investment Ties Strengthen

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, established in 1970, plays a major role in promoting trade and investment across various sectors. The proposed inland port project aligns with Uganda’s broader strategy to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into transport, logistics and storage infrastructure.

If implemented, the Bukasa Inland Port is expected to position Uganda as a stronger regional logistics hub while supporting economic growth and deeper regional integration.