President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called upon Iranian investors to establish agro-processing factories in Uganda rather than acquire large tracts of land for commercial farming, saying value addition is key to creating jobs, boosting exports and increasing farmers’ incomes.
Museveni made the call on Monday, October 26th, 2026, during a meeting with outgoing Iranian Ambassador to Uganda, Majid Saffar, at State House, Entebbe.
He encouraged Iranian companies to invest in processing agricultural products such as coffee, cocoa and pineapples, with Ugandan farmers supplying raw materials to factories that would produce higher-value goods for local and international markets.
“The best way is to build factories in Uganda to process agricultural products from our Ugandan farmers. Let the people here produce, and your companies process,” Museveni said.
The President’s remarks followed Saffar’s disclosure that Iranian investors were interested in establishing agricultural farms in Uganda.
Saffar said Iranian companies were ready to support agricultural cooperatives and farmers’ organisations through investment in agro-processing, commercial agriculture and trade.
“You’re rich in agriculture, and there are a lot of Iranian companies interested in processing Ugandan agricultural products such as cocoa, coffee, pineapples, and we’re ready to support cooperatives and agriculture unions in that line to promote trade and job creation,” he said.
The proposed partnership could expand markets for Ugandan farmers while encouraging investment in agricultural machinery, improved seeds, fertilisers and processing infrastructure.
The two leaders also discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation in healthcare and education, alongside efforts to expand trade and investment between Uganda and Iran.
Museveni thanked Saffar for his service as ambassador and wished him success in his future diplomatic assignments.
The meeting also addressed security challenges in Iran and the wider Middle East. Museveni called for an end to identity-based politics, arguing that countries should pursue peaceful relations rather than allow political and religious differences to fuel hostility.
“Iran should recognise Israel. Israel should recognise Palestine,” he noted, urging mutual recognition and support for Palestinian statehood.
The meeting marked the conclusion of Saffar’s diplomatic tour in Uganda, with both sides expressing interest in strengthening ties through cooperation in agriculture, healthcare, education and trade.
