The Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotion Authority (UFZEPA), in partnership with Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), has hosted the inaugural Northern Uganda Business Forum at the Gulu Logistics Hub.

The event held today, Thursday July 31, 2025 marks a strategic step in enhancing Uganda’s export performance, particularly in northern regions, by equipping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with tools to compete in international markets.

The forum brought together a diverse range of stakeholders from established exporters to SMEs seeking to break into global trade all focused on strengthening the country’s export base through value addition and improved competitiveness.

Rebecca Nalumu, Senior Manager at UFZEPA, emphasized the Authority’s dedication to supporting SMEs in scaling their capacity and aligning with Uganda’s 10-fold export growth strategy.

“We are hopeful that through effective collaboration and guidance, SMEs will increase their export potential, which in turn will create more employment opportunities for Ugandans,” Nalumu said.

The initiative also launched a quarterly nationwide engagement program aimed at enhancing export readiness. The program is designed to empower regional producers and processors with the knowledge, networks, and technical support needed to compete regionally and internationally targeting markets in South Sudan, Kenya, Sudan, DR Congo, and beyond.

According to officials from the Gulu Logistics Hub, this year’s forum represents a significant milestone in Uganda’s journey to boost its export performance particularly in northern Uganda, where production and processing industries are rapidly evolving.

Entrepreneurs and small business owners who attended the forum expressed optimism about the initiative, praising the government’s effort to bring export readiness closer to grassroots enterprises.

“I’ve always wanted to export my products but didn’t know where to start,” Sarah Ayaa, a shea butter processor from Kitgum said.

David Okello, a commercial coffee grower from Lira, said the opportunity to connect with export agencies and logistics experts was long overdue.

“Many of us produce quality goods, but access to export channels is limited. This kind of platform is what we need to break through,” he said.

Participants also lauded the decision to decentralize such initiatives.

“Bringing this conversation to Gulu shows that the government recognizes potential outside Kampala We just need continued mentorship and access to finance,” Beatrice Aluma, an agro-processor from Pader stated.

This forum marks the beginning of a quarterly nationwide program designed to prepare producers and value adders to compete globally. By building strong export readiness across regions, Uganda is positioning itself to grow its export volumes and transform local enterprise into engines of global trade.