In a significant effort to bolster investor confidence and safeguard investments in Uganda, Willy Mutenza, Chairman of the UK-Uganda Business Summit, recently met with Col. Edith Nakalema, the head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU).

Their discussion which took place at SHIPU offices located on Plot 51B along Lumumba Avenue, Nakasero-Kampala focused on how SHIPU can extend its support to investors and Ugandans in the diaspora who have been victims of fraud while attempting to invest in Uganda.

Col. Nakalema emphasized the pivotal role of the Uganda Electronic Investors Protection Portal (EIPP), a platform managed by SHIPU designed to empower investors by providing authentic information and enabling inquiries, verifications, and feedback.

This initiative highlights SHIPU’s dedication to using information technology in the fight against corruption and fraudulent activities targeting investors.

The EIPP serves as a crucial tool for investors to access accurate information and verify the legitimacy of investment opportunities, ensuring a secure investment environment. The platform’s capabilities include the ability to submit inquiries, verify details, and receive timely feedback, all aimed at protecting investors from deceitful schemes.

Willy Mutenza expressed his admiration for SHIPU's accomplishments, noting how the unit's efforts align perfectly with the objectives of the Uganda-UK Trade & Investment Summit 2024.

"The strides made by SHIPU are commendable and resonate well with our summit’s goal to foster economic growth and create a conducive environment for investments," Mutenza remarked.

The upcoming 14th AFRICA-UK Trade & Investment Summit 2024, themed "Accelerating Growth Through Partnerships for Global Market Expansion," will gather high-profile delegates from government, the private sector, development partners, and key East African trading blocs. The summit aims to unlock East Africa's potential in investments and trade, promoting growth and prosperity through collaboration between East African and British businesses.

Scheduled for September 6, 2024, at The May Fair, A Radisson Collection Hotel in London, the summit will provide an invaluable platform for networking and learning from industry leaders. Participants will gain insights into innovative strategies for reaching ethnic audiences and expanding market reach. The event promises opportunities for professionals from diverse backgrounds to engage and build lasting partnerships.

Col. Nakalema urged investors and Ugandans in the diaspora to utilize SHIPU's services to report instances of corruption and bribery demands.

"Our mission is to create a fair and equitable investment climate that benefits both domestic and foreign investors," she stated. "We are committed to integrity, accountability, and diligence in protecting investor interests."

Established by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the State House Investors Protection Unit aims to create a conducive environment for investors by shielding them from corrupt practices and unnecessary bureaucracies.

Since its inception, SHIPU has resolved 90% of the over 400 registered investor complaints, reflecting a collective determination to foster a fair investment climate in Uganda.

The Uganda-UK Trade Summit, founded in 2010, has become a cornerstone in promoting economic empowerment and sustainable development across East Africa. This year's summit aims to enhance investments, expand exports, and engage with target markets by focusing on sectors such as ICT, finance, real estate, tourism, energy, agriculture, infrastructure, manufacturing, renewable energy, and health.

By fostering partnerships and promoting sector-specific investments, the summit seeks to boost international trade, advance East African exports, and strengthen global trade links, particularly for the African diaspora.

As Uganda continues to position itself as a prime destination for investment, the collaborative efforts of SHIPU and initiatives like the Uganda-UK Trade Summit play a crucial role in building investor confidence and driving economic growth.