Kampala, Uganda– The Government of the Republic of Uganda, has extended its appreciation, to the Government of China for always encouraging and supporting Chinese Businessmen to set up investments in Uganda.
While officiating, the launch of the Chinese Enterprises in Uganda Corporate Social Responsibility Report 2024 at Kampala Serena Hotel on Wednesday, Hon. Rukia Nakadama, the third Deputy Prime Minister, noted that Uganda- China cooperation dates back to 1962, the very year and month Uganda attained independence from colonial rule and this has endured for now more than six decades.
“Allow me to pay special tribute to H.E. Zhang Lizhong, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Uganda. Ambassador Zhang, your tireless efforts have strengthened our bilateral cooperation and created a conducive environment for Chinese companies to thrive while serving the Ugandan people. I also extend my gratitude to the leadership of China Chamber and all its member companies. Your contributions have supported Uganda’s socio-economic transformation. Whether in construction, agriculture, technology, or services, your commitment to corporate social responsibility is commendable.” Remarked Nakadama
The third Prime Minister, also pointed out that through China Chamber Commerce, Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives, member companies have made multiple contributions i.e Education Support: Renovation of schools, provision of scholarships, and vocational training programmes. This has given hope to disadvantaged children and equipped young people with employable skills.
“Under health care, Medical outreaches, free treatment camps and donations of medical equipment to hospitals have touched thousands of lives across rural Uganda. Water and Sanitation, Communities have benefited from boreholes, clean water supply projects, and sanitation initiatives.”
Others included; Youth Empowerment: Internship and apprenticeship opportunities offered by Chinese companies have enhanced skills development among our youth, Environment and Sustainability where many Chinese enterprises in Uganda are adopting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards, through planting trees, reducing carbon footprints and embracing digitalization to reduce paper usage.
In his address, H.E. Ambassador Zhang Lizhong, the Ambassador of People’s Republic of China to Uganda, revealed that, eversince the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1962, the two countries have built a strong friendship on the basis of mutual respect, equality, and common development, which under the guidance of high-level exchanges, the cooperation has continued to deepen and expand.
“As of July this year, the total trade volume between China and Uganda reached US$1.148 billion, a year-on-year increase of 41.5%, setting a new record for the same period in history. Among them, China’s imports from Uganda exceeded US$84 million, with an increase of 97.8%. Among them, coffee imports increased by 150% and sesame imports increased by 132%. China has supersized market, over 400 million middle income population and complete income population and complete manufacturing system. China has contributed 30% to the Global GDP. China’s development is opportunity to the world.”
The Ambassador also pointed out that in digital innovation and talent cultivation, companies like Huawei have spearheaded ICT training, school-enterprise partnerships, and job creation. “Through its Seeds for the Future program, Huawei has provided scholarships and training opportunities in China for Ugandan youth, equipping them with skills critical for the digital era.”
Hon. Diao Chunhe, Executive Chairman of the Alliance of Chinese Business in Africa for Social Responsibilities, noted that, the event is not just about a report, but it is a testament to the collective efforts of the Chamber and all member companies.
“It captures the progress we have made over the past year and demonstrates the responsibility and commitment of Chinese enterprises in Uganda.”
He also pointed out that, CSR efforts have not only improved local livelihoods, but have also strengthened the bond between the people of China and Uganda.
Mr.Li Jincheng, Chairman of the China Chamber of Commerce in Uganda, expressed his sincere gratitude to the Ugandan government, partners, community members, and friends from all sectors who have been so supportive to the Chinese enterprises in Uganda.
Most importantly, I pay high tribute to all Chinese enterprises in Uganda for their dedicated efforts and outstanding contributions over the past three years to the “100 Chinese Enterprises for 1000 Villages” Initiative. In 2021, at the Eighth Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), President Xi Jinping announced that China would support the “100 Chinese Enterprises for 1000 Villages” Initiative. Since its launch, Chinese enterprises in Africa have actively responded and implemented the initiative.
He also added that, in the past three years, more than 200 enterprises have carried out over 500 projects benefiting local communities across 53 African countries, covering more than 10,000 villages and improving the lives of nearly 10 million people.
About the CSR Report launched, the Ambassador stated that, it is not only a record, but also a pledge which demonstrates that Chinese enterprises stand ready to work hand in hand with the Ugandan government and all sectors of society to explore new growth areas in infrastructure, digital economy, green energy, and agricultural modernization, jointly building a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous China-Uganda community with a shared future.
At this event, Uganda Women’s Initiative to Save Orphans (UWESO) received a donation of Solar powered lights under Chinese CSR program to support it, in its a running of its day to day activities.
The event attracted Dignitaries from the Government of Uganda, Chinese Embassy, Chinese business men, local investors and other key stakeholders.
Some of the Initiatives done by Chinese in Uganda.
In infrastructure development, the Kampala–Entebbe Expressway and the expansion of Entebbe International Airport have greatly improved transport and logistics, boosting tourism and regional connectivity. China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) also renovated schools along the highway and donated learning materials to students. The newly launched Kayunga–Bbaale–Galiraya road will link the central region with the north and east, helping farmers access markets more conveniently.
Energy Sector, the USD 1.7 billion Karuma Hydropower Plant, financed by the Export-Import Bank of China, has been fully commissioned, adding 600 MW to Uganda’s capacity and pushing the national installed power to over 2,000 MW. It also enables power exports to Rwanda, Tanzania, and Kenya. Sinohydro further built and donated a community health clinic near the project site, making medical care more accessible to local residents.
In green development, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) has built over 1,000 kilometers of roads in Uganda since 1996, including in ecologically sensitive areas such as Murchison Falls National Park and wetlands, while adopting environmentally friendly practices. In addition, Chinese companies have engaged employees and local communities in tree planting initiatives, demonstrating their commitment to ecological protection and sustainability.
Under social livelihood, China Railway No.7 and other companies have drilled boreholes for safe drinking water and built footbridges, directly improving local residents’ daily lives. Chinese enterprises have also partnered with the Embassy to organize free medical camps and health awareness activities, benefiting local communities.
In compliance and governance sector, the publication of the Chinese translation of the Uganda Taxation Guide 2024 was a joint achievement by the Chamber of Commerce and the Uganda Revenue Authority, helping enterprises better understand and comply with local laws, thus fostering a transparent, open, and predictable business environment.
