President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has underscored the importance of embracing technology across all sectors and inspiring younger generations to integrate it into their daily lives.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, at the closing ceremony of the 2025 National Science Week held at Kololo Independence Grounds on Friday, the President reiterated Uganda’s commitment to building capacity in research, development, technology transfer, and the commercialisation of innovations, especially in critical areas like disease control, vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics.
President Museveni emphasized that dedicating a week to celebrating science and technology marks a significant step in Uganda’s journey toward technological transformation.
He pointed out that the science and technology sector holds great promise for Africa, noting that the continent’s pharmaceutical market, currently valued at USD 20 billion, is projected to reach USD 70 billion by 2030.
Despite this potential, Africa still imports nearly 90% of its healthcare products, while Uganda imports 95%. The President stressed that strategic investments in science and technology can reverse this trend and turn it into an opportunity for export growth, particularly within the East African Community.
During the event, President Museveni commended the innovative products on display and officially launched the 2025 Kayoola EV Bus, handing over the first unit to the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, the initial customer for the new electric model.
In his remarks, Deputy Speaker Tayebwa assured investors of Uganda’s peaceful and stable environment, ideal for long-term investment. He highlighted new incentives, including a three-year tax holiday for startups and policies that allow investors to repatriate profits freely.
“With Uganda recently removed from the European Union’s anti-money laundering grey list, investors now face fewer barriers to accessing capital. I look forward to seeing new industries flourish across the country,” Tayebwa said.
