India Uganda Conference 2024 in Bengaluru was held with the presence of the delegation from Uganda. Business leaders from India and Uganda participated to foster partnerships around sustainable development and economic cooperation. Uganda’s High Commissioner to India, Prof. Joyce Kikafunda and Dr. Asif Iqbal, President of IETO, opened the event by emphasizing the longstanding and growing ties between the two countries.
A notable moment was the launch of Professor Joyce Kikafunda’s autobiography, “Triumph Over Adversity: My Extraordinary Life’s Journey.” Her story of resilience mirrors Uganda’s journey toward progress. As Uganda’s High Commissioner to India, Prof. Kikafunda highlighted investment opportunities through the Uganda Investment Authority, stressing Uganda’s eagerness to partner with Government of India Official in agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy.
Siddalingappa Pujari , Govt of Karnataka spoke on Uganda’s leather industry, emphasizing historical ties since both countries’ independence. He noted that India’s expertise could help grow Uganda’s leather sector, adding economic value and jobs.
Dr. Ashok Sangappa Alur underscored the potential of agricultural collaboration, stressing that knowledge exchange in this area could boost food security, reduce poverty, and drive sustainable growth across both nations.
In the address of Mr. Mukund Raj from NABARD, he focused on the synergy between the goals set by both nations. Agriculture is central to both economies, essential for rural prosperity, food security, and economic stability. India ranks among Uganda’s top foreign investors, with growing interest in sectors like manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. India’s advances in agritech have enhanced productivity and processing, transforming the sector.
He shared NABARD – National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development and NABARD Consultancy Services (NABCONS) http://www.nabcons.com’ commitment to provide technical expertise and develop sustainable solutions customized to Uganda’s needs. Through strategic partnerships, climate-smart infrastructure, and advanced technologies, Nabard aims to make agriculture a sustainable, economically empowering sector. Together, India and Uganda can build a convergence of Skill development, finance, technology, and environmental stewardship, positioning agriculture as a core driver of growth.
In a globalized world, partnerships like this are critical. “I am confident that India and Uganda are positioned for a prosperous, collaborative future. We closed the conference with optimism and a commitment to growth, agriculture at the center. I left with a renewed determination to support Uganda’s journey, confident that today’s strengthened ties will bring mutual prosperity tomorrow” said Mr. Mukud Raj after the conference.
The High Commissioner signed the books given to various delegates. The Indian delegation to Uganda is expected to leave in January to collaborate on mining and agriculture opportunties.
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