Why this project?
Despite promising developments in Uganda, industrialization remains elusive. The Country continues to be heavily import-reliant, importing four to five times its exports, while regional trade remains low.
Whilst much progress has been made with TMA’s support in reducing time and costs of trade in the region, and lowering import costs, there has been a muted production response at the firm level.
Export profiles are still dominated by primary commodities with limited value addition. Unemployment is persistently high across the country, particularly amongst youth.
Uganda put in place a national Industrial Policy in 2008 however its implementation remains a challenge.
What:
The Jinja TLC, which will be situated on a 20 acres parcel of land within the Jinja Industrial Park, is designed to unlock constraints to value addition in export-oriented sectors that have high growth potential for manufacturing and labour absorption, these include horticulture (fruit and vegetables), light manufacturing (automotive) and aquaculture. The TLC will provide storage infrastructure especially for horticulture produce, address issues of standards and compliance which are critical for competitiveness and export readiness.
TMA plans to jump start growth in the country through a co-ordinated public private partnership approach with the Government of Uganda and the private sector. The approach is demand-led and aligned with the government’s industrialisation and export development strategies. These shall be achieved through promoting a localized economy in which many manufacturing companies, services industries, the Trading community (Importers/Exporters/Transporters) and government regulating agencies exist in proximity to one another.
How:
TMA, with funding from the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), is providing financial and technical assistance to Uganda Free Zones Authority.
Contact:
Ag. Senior Programme Manager: Sandra Kirenga
sandra.kirenga@trademarkea.com
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