In a significant development for Uganda’s business community, Simon Kaheru, Oscar Kamukama, Bruce Mpamizo, and Kenneth Ayebare have been elected to critical positions in the East African Business Council (EABC). This landmark election took place during the 23rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on December 13, 2024, in Arusha, Tanzania, marking a pivotal moment for regional economic collaboration.
Key Ugandan Appointments
Simon Kaheru, representing the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), was elected Vice Chairperson of the EABC, underscoring his influential role in the manufacturing sector. He will be joined by:
- Oscar Kamukama of Steel and Tube Industries,
- Kenneth Ayebare from the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), and
- Bruce Mpamizo, a leader at Movit Products Limited.
These leaders will represent Uganda on the Governing Council and Executive Committee of the EABC, where they are expected to advance cross-border trade, eliminate non-tariff barriers, and advocate for private-sector growth within the East African Community (EAC).
Regional Leadership for Economic Growth
The 23rd AGM also highlighted the diversity and expertise of leaders from other EAC member states:
- Burundi: Hon. Olivier Suguru (Vice Chairperson)
- Kenya: Jas Bedi
- Rwanda: Dennis Karera
- Tanzania: Angelina Ngalula
These leaders, along with notable figures like Rajan Shah (former Chairperson of the Kenya Association of Manufacturers) and Clifford Machoka (Coca-Cola East and Central Africa), bring a wealth of experience to the council. From Rwanda, Linda Kalimba Mulenga (Trinity Lawyers) and Emmanuel Nkusi (Bank of Kigali) further enrich the team.
South Sudan is represented by Kennedy Lodiong Kenyi (Association of South Sudan Manufacturers) and Mou Ambrose Thiik (Trinity Group), while Tanzania’s Ashish Mistry (ALAF Group) and Satbir Singh (Hanspaul Group of Companies) add valuable insights to the Governing Council.
Achievements and New Directions
The AGM served as a platform to review the EABC’s achievements for 2023/24 and to set the agenda for 2024–2026. Among the highlights was the amendment of the council’s Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMARTs), including the creation of a Governing Council to streamline decision-making.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Frank Mbando, Assistant Regional Administrative Secretary, commended the EABC for integrating the private sector to drive regional economic growth. He encouraged business leaders to invest in Arusha, particularly in the edible oil and textile industries. Additionally, he emphasized the opportunities tied to the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027), which will be co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
Commitments to Regional Integration
In his acceptance speech, Mr. John Lual Akol Akol, the newly elected Chairperson representing South Sudan, expressed his gratitude to the outgoing leadership. He pledged to further the council’s mission of creating a borderless East Africa for business and investment.
“The EABC remains committed to removing trade barriers and advancing a unified regional market for the benefit of all,” Mr. Akol stated, reinforcing the council’s vision of seamless economic collaboration.
Driving Private Sector Growth
The AGM also celebrated the strides made in reducing non-tariff barriers and promoting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the region. Mr. Adrian Njau, Secretary to the EABC Board, highlighted the council’s renewed focus on creating an enabling environment for businesses under its new leadership.
“With the new leadership, we are poised to accelerate regional integration and create opportunities for private-sector growth,” he noted, signaling a bright future for East African trade and investment.
Conclusion
The 23rd AGM of the EABC concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening collaboration among member states. With Uganda’s new representatives taking on key roles, the stage is set for greater trade, investment, and economic prosperity across the East African Community. These leaders’ dedication and expertise promise to drive meaningful change, fostering an era of unity and growth within the region.
