The third celebration of World MSME Day by SB4U brought together an array of stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and dignitaries to recognise the pivotal role that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play in Uganda’s economy. Held on 27th June 2024 at Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala the event revolved around the theme “MSMEs – The Growth Engine for Women and Young People’s Entrepreneurship and Resilient Supply Chains.”
Opening Insights
The event began with an engaging address by the day’s Master of Ceremonies, Francis Kisirinya, Chief Membership Officer of PFSU. He emphasised the importance of MSME Day, which was adopted in 2017 as an international day to honour the contributions of MSMEs globally. Highlighting that MSMEs employ a vast majority of Uganda’s population, Kisirinya set the stage for a day of insightful discussions and inspirational stories.
European Union’s Commitment
Caroline, Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Uganda, reaffirmed the EU’s long-standing commitment to supporting Ugandan entrepreneurs. She noted that MSMEs constitute 90% of the private sector, contribute 75% to the GDP, and create 85% of the jobs in Uganda. This year’s focus was on women and youth, entrepreneurs, and value addition for their businesses. Caroline outlined SB4U’s strategic initiatives, including skill-building, bridging financial gaps, promoting trade standards, and enhancing export quality.
Keynote Address by Hon. Betty Amongi
Hon. Betty Amongi, Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, delivered an inspiring keynote speech. She praised the efforts of SB4U and its partners, including the European Union and Enabel, for their unwavering support of women and youth in Uganda. Hon. Amongi highlighted the critical role of MSMEs in sustaining Uganda’s economy, emphasising their diversity—from roadside vendors to small-scale manufacturers. She acknowledged the innovative business models and improved marketing and branding strategies that reflect the sector’s adaptability.
Hon. Amongi also discussed the GROW project, a government initiative aimed at providing skills, financing, and certification to MSMEs. She highlighted the shift among young entrepreneurs towards trade and digital platforms, moving away from traditional agriculture, and noted the government’s efforts to create a conducive business environment.
Empowering Women and Youth Entrepreneurs
Team Europe Projects for Women and Youth Entrepreneurs
- Tom Vanneste (Enabel): Tom Enabel’s Country Director detailed the WeWork project, which aims to skill and create jobs for young women. The project engages communities to stress the importance of skilled women and offers training for vulnerable groups, linking skills to employment and supporting businesses through workforce solutions.
- Phiona Bukulu (International Trade Centre): Phiona introduced the “Opportunities are Here” project, focusing on the film industry. Funded by the European Union, this initiative provides free training and market access for youth aged 18-35. Season 1 saw the creation of over 5900 opportunities, support for 493 jobs, and the production of nine films.
Financing Institutions for Women and Youth
- Eric Sseguya (HFB): Eric discussed HFB’s comprehensive support for business growth, including loans, trade financing, asset financing, and value-added services like business advisory and financial literacy.
- Beatrice Kyosiiga (UDB): Beatrice highlighted the partnership between UDB and the European Investment Bank, which offers various financial instruments to support MSMEs.
- Laura Corcoran (Aptech Africa): Laura showcased Aptech Africa’s mission to provide clean water and electricity across Africa. Their Pay n Pump solutions offer affordable irrigation, enhancing crop yields and promoting sustainability.
Inspirational Entrepreneur Testimonials
The event featured testimonials from successful entrepreneurs:
- Agnes Kitumba (Arise): Agnes shared her journey from starting with three women to growing her business to over 25 women. She emphasized overcoming barriers through partnerships and upskilling.
- Brenda Sekabembe (Bake for Me): Brenda highlighted her growth from a small startup to a business with five locations. She stressed the importance of market research and strategic location.
- Ronald Ochoo (KAFRESH): Ronald explained how KAFRESH addresses food waste by providing farmers with more time to market their produce. The company is now seeking FDA certification for the US market.
- Annah Namuli (Napas Agro Processors): Annah transitioned from growing pineapples to producing juice, expanding her business significantly with initial EU funding.
- Geoffrey Mutabazi (Kaara): Geoffrey’s business electrifies bicycles, providing an eco-friendly logistics solution. Kaara exports to four African countries and has focused on customer-funded growth.
- Winnie Atabaruyo (Antfeet): Winnie discussed her initiative to enhance skills through play-based learning, aiming to foster mindset change and skill development.
Closing Remarks
Susan Kitakule, Executive Director of SB4U, concluded the event by thanking all participants, partners, and panelists for their contributions. She encouraged continued interaction and collaboration among businesses to drive innovation and growth. Special thanks were extended to Hon. Betty Amongi for her insightful remarks and support for MSMEs in Uganda.
Conclusion World MSME Day 2024 celebrated the resilience and innovation of MSMEs in Uganda. The event highlighted the critical role these enterprises play in driving economic growth and underscored the importance of continuous support and collaboration from government bodies, international partners, and the entrepreneurial community. As Uganda moves forward, the empowerment of women and youth entrepreneurs will remain central to building a robust and resilient economy.
