Africa-Press – Uganda. Africa’s industrial transformation depends on women’s leadership, youth-driven innovation, and sustainable development models, according to Uganda’s Minister of State for Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, David Bahati.
Speaking at the opening of the African Industrialization Week in Munyonyo, Minister Bahati noted that while Africa is home to 1.25 billion people, its share of global manufacturing remains a modest 2%.
“With projections placing Africa’s population at 2.5 billion by 2030, the potential for industrial growth is phenomenal—but we must act now,” he said.
Currently, industrial output contributes just 10.4% to Africa’s GDP, a figure Bahati described as “far below our potential.” He highlighted major obstacles to industrial growth, including high costs of energy, transport, and capital, and called for urgent reforms to public procurement laws, which he said often cause project delays and cost overruns.
“Industrialization cannot thrive without an enabling environment. We need affordable and reliable energy, efficient transport, accessible financing, and legal frameworks that support rather than stifle innovation,” Bahati stressed.
The African Industrialization Week, organized by Uganda’s Ministry of Trade, the African Union, and partners, has brought together nearly 500 delegates, including 200 AU representatives.
The event’s theme is: “Transforming Africa’s Economy through Sustainable Industrialization, Regional Integration, and Innovation.”
Highlighting Uganda’s industrial success, Bahati noted the country has grown from just 81 factories in 1986 to nearly 10,000 today. Manufacturing now contributes 15.6% of GDP, with exports reaching a record $10.6 billion this year.
“Uganda’s experience shows that with the right policies, strategic leadership, and regional cooperation, rapid industrialization is achievable,” he said, urging other African nations to emulate this progress.
Activities during the week—including exhibitions, policy dialogues, and investment forums—are expected to spur new partnerships and strategic investments to accelerate Africa’s journey toward becoming a competitive industrial hub.
The event runs through Friday and is being hailed as a milestone in Africa’s quest for economic sovereignty.
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