Uganda’s State House reaffirmed its commitment to investor protection Wednesday as Japanese automobile dealer Yoshino Motors explored expanding its operations in the East African nation.
Col. Edith Nakalema, head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), welcomed Yoshino Motors CEO Shunsuke Nakanishi and Uganda Managing Director Abas Ali. The meeting at SHIPU offices in Kampala came as Yoshino Motors, which specializes in importing, re-exporting, and trading Japanese cars, celebrates 13 years in Uganda. The company has created more than 50 jobs and contributed to the local automotive sector.
“We are happy and honored to receive the CEO of Yoshino, a reputable group of companies from Japan,” Nakalema said. “Africa, and in particular Uganda, still holds immense potential for companies like yours to grow.”
Nakalema emphasized the government’s dedication to safeguarding legitimate investors through modern, efficient channels, including the Uganda Electronic Investors Protection Portal. Hosted by the National Information Technology Authority (NITA-U), the portal provides direct access to verified government services, helping investors bypass illegal middlemen.
Nakalema briefed the Japanese executives on Uganda’s investment facilitation framework, assuring them that all critical ministries, departments, and agencies are accessible through the online portal. She cited successful use of the portal by investors from countries like India and China to resolve complaints and access services without interference.
“His Excellency the President guided that to eliminate wrong elements — the so-called middlemen — we use online services to reach authentic government MDAs,” Nakalema said. “You will find Uganda Revenue Authority, Uganda Registration Services Bureau, and Uganda Investment Authority all accessible in one place.”
Nakalema encouraged Nakanishi to consider expanding into sectors beyond automobiles, commending the long-term investment culture of Japanese companies like Yoshino Motors, which was founded in 1959 by Nakanishi’s grandfather.
Nakanishi expressed gratitude for the reception and reaffirmed the company’s confidence in Uganda’s economic potential.
“Our company was established in 1959 by my grandfather. Thirteen years ago, we chose to invest in Uganda,” Nakanishi said. “From our view, Africa, and Uganda in particular, is a growing market with many features that make it attractive. We don’t hesitate to put more investment here.”
Nakanishi lauded the effectiveness of Uganda’s digital investment support systems and expressed interest in exploring new ventures in vehicle production, parts manufacturing, and local partnerships.
Stuart Maniraguha, acting executive director of the National Forestry Authority (NFA), suggested Uganda could supply wood materials for automobile interiors, potentially opening up downstream manufacturing within the country. He also urged Yoshino Motors to continue its transition toward hybrid and energy-efficient vehicles.
Nakalema highlighted Uganda’s growing appeal as an investment destination, citing its ranking as the third most attractive globally by the Oxford School of Economics and its recognition by the Annual Investment Meeting in Abu Dhabi as the most rewarding and stable economy in Africa for 2023 and 2024.
She described Uganda’s strengths as “Peaceful, Pleasant, and Profitable,” affirming its readiness to accommodate more high-caliber investors.
“The protection of investors remains a top priority of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda,” Nakalema said. “This office — the State House Investors Protection Unit — is open full time. You are always welcome.”
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