Chennai, India (April 13–17, 2026) — The India–Uganda Business Forum convened in Chennai this week, marking a significant step in advancing bilateral trade and investment cooperation between the two countries. Bringing together policymakers, diplomats, and private sector leaders, the forum underscored a shared commitment to translating long-standing diplomatic ties into tangible economic outcomes.
The Ugandan delegation was received by RV Chari, Chairman of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Chennai Zone and Managing Director of GI Induction, alongside Vinod Saraogi Kumar, Uganda’s Honorary Consul in Chennai. In his remarks, Chari emphasized that India–Uganda relations are anchored in historical linkages, strong people-to-people connections, and shared democratic values. He noted that these foundations have, over time, evolved into structured economic cooperation supported by high-level engagements and institutional partnerships. India remains one of Uganda’s key economic partners, with growing trade volumes and a visible presence across sectors including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, education, and renewable energy. Chari highlighted the role of the CII in fostering Africa-focused engagement, particularly through the India Africa Conclave, which has become a major platform for business dialogue and cross-continental partnerships.
Addressing the forum, Kumar pointed to Uganda’s accelerating economic trajectory, positioning the country and the broader East African region as a frontier for investment. He cited macroeconomic stability, a conducive business environment, and Uganda’s resource endowment as central drivers of investor confidence. Emphasizing both agricultural potential and mineral wealth, he encouraged Indian businesses to explore opportunities supported by facilitative frameworks such as Uganda’s One-Stop Investment Centre. He also underscored Uganda’s strategic location, offering access to regional markets through established trade corridors across East Africa.
Uganda’s High Commissioner to India, Ambassador Prof. Joyce Kakuramatsi Kikafunda, framed the forum within the broader context of resilient bilateral relations. Reflecting on historical challenges, including the expulsion of Asians in 1972, she noted the subsequent restoration of trust under President Yoweri Museveni’s leadership, which has enabled the return and reintegration of a vibrant Indian diaspora now exceeding 40,000 people. Ambassador Kikafunda outlined Uganda’s investment priorities, highlighting sectors such as agro-industrialization, value addition, science and technology, and mineral development, including oil and gas. She revealed that Uganda is on track to commence oil production by July 2026, opening new avenues for downstream investment. While bilateral trade currently stands at approximately USD 1.4 billion largely in India’s favor she emphasized Uganda’s export potential of up to USD 900 million, much of which remains untapped.
Positioning Uganda as the “heart of Africa,” she called for strategic investments that leverage regional integration and support the country’s long-term development agenda under Vision 2040. The forum concluded with a renewed call for private sector collaboration to drive inclusive growth and rebalance trade, reinforcing the message that Uganda is firmly open for business.
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