The Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI) has called for immediate investment in appropriate technologies to enhance agricultural production and improve efficiency.

Dr. Dick Kamugasha, the UIRI Deputy Executive Director, said this during a panel discussion that focused on enhancing agricultural production and breaking the export barriers on the sidelines of the Uganda-UAE Business forum held at Speke Resort, Munyonyo.

According to Dr. Kamugasha this can be achieved through acquiring improved working equipment for the farmers, embracing Agric-Tech, and using smart technologies that can assess land to ascertain what crops can best flourish on it, and enhancing value addition.

“It is important to note that production with research and development means that one is embracing production with diversification; this will have a comparative advantage over others. Tailor yourself and innovate to feed the market,” said Dr. Kamugasha.

On Wednesday, October 1, 2023, while opening the event being hosted under the theme “Uganda: the gateway of the UAE to the EAC region”, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni urged investors from the UAE to consider investing in Uganda.

“Uganda has a wealth of resources, from minerals and food to various fruits. The country enjoys a tranquil atmosphere due to our robust systems, and it offers access to the expansive African market even before considering global expansion. This presents a mutually beneficial opportunity for the UAE and Uganda,” President Museveni emphasized.

The event is aimed at fostering foreign direct investment (FDI), boosting exports, promoting tourism, facilitating technology transfers, and strengthening ties between the two nations.