visited Uganda on
3 and 4 April to reinforce the UK's commitment to sustainable
development and mutual economic growth.
During his 2-day visit, Lord Collins announced the launch of a
new UK-Uganda Growth Dialogue between the UK and the Ministry of
Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
The UK-Uganda Growth Dialogue will be a quarterly series of
discussions on commercial deals, business environment and
economic policy to identify opportunities to increase trade and
investment between the 2 nations. It will unblock barriers to
trade and create new opportunities for collaboration.
Lord Collins visited areas of UK investments such as Zembo, a
leading e-mobility company in Uganda, which has received
financing from UK Innovate and Private Infrastructure Development
Group.
Uganda's green transition
Funding has accelerated the adoption of electric motorcycles and
other zero-emission vehicles, reducing carbon emissions and
saving the average boda driver US$500 annually on traditional
fuel and maintenance costs. The investment supports Uganda's
transition to greener mobility while creating new job
opportunities.
stated:
My visit to Uganda reaffirms the UK's unwavering commitment to
building equal partnerships that supporting sustainable
development and drive mutually beneficial economic growth in the
region. We are dedicated to working closely with our Ugandan
partners to achieve shared prosperity and a brighter future for
all.
Celebrating direct flights between UK and Uganda
Lord Collins and Uganda Airlines jointly hosted a reception to
celebrate the new Uganda Airlines direct flight to the UK – the
first in 10 years. The direct flights are expected to enhance
trade, tourism, and people-to-people links between the UK and
Uganda, further strengthening the 2 countries' historic
relationship.
Lord Collins remarked:
The introduction of direct flights between Entebbe and London
Gatwick marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to deepen ties and
foster mutual growth. We are excited about the opportunities this
new connection will bring.
Supporting Uganda's research and innovation
During his visit to Uganda, visited the Uganda
Virus Research Institute (UVRI), which boasts over £25 million in
active funding from UK Universities and Medical Research Council
and hosts many British medical researchers for and a 35-year
partnership with the UK.
UVRI has pioneered breakthroughs, including significant
advancements in HIV/AIDS treatment and Ebola research, enhanced
disease surveillance and provided expert advice on controlling
viral infections.
UVRI partners with the Ministry of Health, the UK's Medical
Research Council (MRC), the London School of Hygiene &
Tropical Medicine, and other international and local experts to
advance its mission
BackgroundUVRI (Uganda Virus Research
Institute)
UVRI is a leading research institute in Uganda, focusing on viral
diseases and public health, collaborating with UK Universities
and international partners.
PIDG (Private Infrastructure Development Group)
PIDG mobilises finance for infrastructure projects in Africa and
Asia, promoting sustainable development through public-private
partnerships.
Innovate UK
Innovate UK supports business-led innovation across sectors with
financial support, expert advice and access to resources.
