The Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) Director of Airports and Aviation Security, Al-Haji Eng. Ayub Sooma, has urged supplier companies to continue strengthening their business fundamentals and competencies amidst growing opportunities.
He made these remarks on Thursday, November 28, 2024, during the UCAA Annual Suppliers’ Workshop at Imperial Resort Beach Hotel.
“With changes in our business environment and technological requirements, we believe such an event is paramount for us to share information, update ourselves with the latest in the logistics profession, as well as receive valuable feedback from you, our valued suppliers,” Eng. Sooma said.
According to Eng. Sooma, UCAA has more than 500 registered suppliers who work together to meet user requirements in various fields, including freight forwarding and trucking, works, services, and suppliers.
He underlined that the Authority’s operating and capital budgets have continued to increase over time, creating a favourable opportunity to change service delivery and business growth.
Eng. Sooma emphasized that the government remains dedicated to supporting the local companies in seeking these procurement and logistical opportunities and translating them into tangible benefits for the local suppliers.
However, he stated that this forum is an endeavor that all MDAs must undertake since it is the way they can move forward through collaborating closely, obtaining feedback to comprehend the challenges they encounter, and coming up with solutions that will advance the sector.
Mercy Kyoshabire, Ag. Director of Performance Monitoring at the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA), said that it strives to use procurement to enhance society’s social well-being.
She added that the mindset of local suppliers is one of their biggest obstacles, stating that it’s crucial to invest not only in financial capacity but also in building technical expertise.
The event is running under the theme “Collaboration and Partnerships for Sustainable Procurement.”
