The Kyabazinga of Busoga, His Majesty William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV, is seeking UAE expertise and investment to help transform Busoga’s agricultural potential into value-added products and better-connected markets.
The push took shape on Sunday when the Kyabazinga visited 5PL Logistics Solutions in Abu Dhabi for talks on establishing an integrated agro-processing and logistics hub in Busoga.
The proposed facility would bring together agro-processing, post-harvest handling, modern warehousing, packaging, cold-chain services and distribution, addressing challenges including post-harvest losses, inadequate storage and limited value addition.
During the visit, the Kyabazinga and his delegation toured 5PL’s operations and were briefed on its systems for warehousing, inventory management, cargo handling, distribution and supply-chain management.
The discussions explored the possibility of adapting a similar model to Busoga, where agriculture remains central to livelihoods and the regional economy.
The Kyabazinga, who was accompanied by Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE, H.E. Zaake W. Kibedi, and officials from the Embassy and Busoga Kingdom, stressed the need for Busoga to move beyond exporting raw commodities and capture more value through processing and improved market access.
5PL chairman Dr Mohammed Ali Al Hosani expressed interest in the opportunities presented by Busoga. Both sides agreed to continue discussions to assess the project and develop a possible framework for cooperation.
Ambassador Kibedi pledged the Embassy’s support in facilitating follow-up engagements between 5PL, the Kingdom and relevant Ugandan government institutions.
The Abu Dhabi talks came two days after the Kyabazinga celebrated his 12th Coronation Anniversary with Basoga living in the UAE.
At the Dubai gathering on September 26, the monarch urged the diaspora to remain connected to Busoga and use their experience and resources to support development back home.
He encouraged Basoga to consider long-term ventures such as coffee and cocoa growing and construction, while assuring potential investors that “Obwakyabazinga Bwa Busoga is an open door” and ready to support those seeking to invest in the region.
The celebrations were organised by the Busoga Yaiffe UAE Chapter under the theme “Inspiring a new generation to carry the values, vision and legacy of Busoga forward.”
The Kyabazinga also praised Basoga in the UAE for maintaining their cultural identity and contributing to their families and communities back home.
Ambassador Kibedi called for stronger links between Ugandan producers and the UAE market, particularly in agriculture.
He cited avocados and sweet potatoes among products in demand in the UAE and said the Embassy was ready to support Ugandans seeking to access the market.
“The Embassy is ready to assist those intending to export agricultural products like avocados, sweet potatoes which are on high demand in the UAE,” Kibedi said.
He also pointed to existing UAE investment in Uganda and called for stronger economic links between the two countries.
The proposed 5PL facility could complement these efforts by providing infrastructure for processing, storage and distribution before products reach international markets.
The Dubai celebrations also underscored the importance of maintaining Busoga’s identity among Ugandans living abroad.
Minister for the Presidency Milly Babalanda urged Basoga to speak Lusoga, teach their children the history and traditions of Busoga and preserve their cultural values.
“While you are from Busoga, Busoga must never be far from you,” Babalanda told the gathering.
She also encouraged the diaspora to use their time abroad to acquire skills, knowledge, experience and professional networks, while saving and investing wisely.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Dr Aggrey David Kibenge, encouraged Ugandans in the diaspora to embrace voluntary savings through NSSF as part of planning for their future.
The Kyabazinga’s UAE engagements brought together two strands of his development message: preserving Busoga’s identity among its people abroad and building practical links between the Kingdom, its diaspora and international markets.
The proposed 5PL hub remains at the discussion stage, with further engagements expected to determine the feasibility and structure of any partnership.
