Mbarara, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The Private Sector Foundation Uganda has opened its regional offices in Mbarara City.
The offices will serve districts in Ankole, Kigezi, Rwenzori, Bunyoro, and Tooro.
Daniel Kazibwe, a board member representing the Board Chairperson of PSFU, said that the office will enhance the region’s competitiveness among association groups, opening up more opportunities for traders.
Stephen Asiimwe, the Chief Executive Officer of PSFU, said that with its fertile land for agriculture, beautiful scenery for tourism, and a thriving cultural and creative arts sector, the PSFU will provide national and international platforms to promote private sector players of the region.
Asiimwe added that because of its strategic location, Mbarara City will be used as a regional hub for economic transformation for neighboring districts.
According to Asiimwe, more offices will be opened in other parts of the country.
Mbarara City Mayor Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi urged the PSFU to increase advocacy and marketing for the region’s opportunities, including tourism and agriculture.
Sezi Mwijuka, the chairman of the Mbarara City Traders Association, requested the PSFU to educate traders about mindset change and the adoption of technology noting that traders are stuck in the traditional systems of transacting business.
He urged Members of Parliament to investigate the high taxes that are burdening traders at the national and regional levels.
Fred Kimbareeba, the Coordinator of Small Scale Industries in the Western region, expressed concern about the lack of participation from traders in workshops and seminars aimed at enhancing their knowledge.
He appreciated the establishment of PSFU regional offices and emphasized their role in educating traders about the advantages of forming associations or groups and registering companies.
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