The State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU) has reaffirmed Uganda’s readiness to support and protect foreign investment, as interest from Swedish investors continues to grow across key sectors of the economy.

During a meeting held at SHIPU offices, the Head of Unit, Col. Edith Nakalema, highlighted Uganda’s increasing appeal to international investors, noting a steady rise in engagements with foreign missions seeking opportunities in the country.

She explained that this momentum reflects growing confidence in Uganda’s investment climate, supported by deliberate efforts to streamline investor services and strengthen protection mechanisms.

Col. Nakalema pointed to priority areas already drawing attention, including the Standard Gauge Railway project, energy developments such as the Karuma Hydropower Project, and dairy production aimed at expanding Uganda’s processing and export capacity.

She added that these sectors are aligned with the country’s broader strategy to promote industrialization and value addition.

She further noted that Sweden’s continued development support, estimated at about SEK 1.5 billion (approximately $160 million) under the 2025–2029 cooperation framework has played a role in strengthening the institutional and economic foundation necessary to attract private investment.

In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding between Sweden and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development signals early progress toward structured private sector collaboration.

The Swedish Ambassador to Uganda, Maria Håkansson, emphasized a shift in Sweden’s approach to its partnership with Uganda, from traditional aid-focused cooperation to increased private sector investment.

Ambassador Håkansson observed that Swedish companies are increasingly exploring Uganda as a viable investment destination, particularly in sectors such as energy, transport, railway infrastructure, agro-processing, healthcare, and coffee production.

“Sweden’s interest in Uganda is widening, with attention now turning to sectors that can deliver both economic returns and long-term partnerships,” she said.

She highlighted coffee as a key area of mutual interest, noting that Sweden is among the world’s highest per capita consumers, while Uganda has strong potential to expand not only production but also value addition for export markets.

“Uganda stands out as a strategic partner in coffee, especially with opportunities for value addition and trade growth,” she added.

The engagement underscored a broader transition in Uganda–Sweden relations, from a donor-recipient dynamic to a partnership increasingly shaped by trade, investment, and private sector participation.

Swedish investors, she noted, are now viewing Uganda as a serious and competitive market.

As Uganda continues to attract attention from global partners, SHIPU remains committed to facilitating investment by ensuring a secure, transparent, and efficient operating environment.

The Unit continues to play a central role in coordinating government response, addressing investor concerns, and reinforcing confidence in Uganda as a reliable investment destination.