Uganda’s Simon Kaheru, Oscar Kamukama, Bruce Mpamizo, and Kenneth Ayebare Elected to Key Positions at EABC AGM
Uganda has secured a remarkable presence in the leadership of the East African Business Council (EABC), as Simon Kaheru, Oscar Kamukama, Bruce Mpamizo, and Kenneth Ayebare were elected to influential roles during the 23rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on December 13, 2024, in Arusha, Tanzania. Their appointments highlight Uganda’s dedication to fostering regional economic integration and advancing private-sector interests across the East African Community (EAC).
Key Roles for Uganda’s Representatives
Simon Kaheru, representing the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), will serve as Vice Chairperson of the EABC. He is joined by:
- Oscar Kamukama of Steel and Tube Industries,
- Kenneth Ayebare from the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), and
- Bruce Mpamizo of Movit Products Limited.
These leaders will represent Uganda on the newly established Governing Council and Executive Committee, advocating for the elimination of trade barriers, enhancing cross-border investment, and driving private-sector growth across the region.
A Diverse Leadership Team Across the EAC
The newly constituted EABC leadership brings together an impressive array of business minds from all EAC member states. Alongside Simon Kaheru, Hon. Olivier Suguru from Burundi will serve as Vice Chairperson, with Jas Bedi from Kenya, Dennis Karera from Rwanda, and Angelina Ngalula from Tanzania completing the team.
The Governing Council boasts influential members, including:
- Rajan Shah, former Chairperson of the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM),
- Clifford Machoka, Senior Director of Public Affairs at Coca-Cola East and Central Africa,
- Linda Kalimba Mulenga, legal expert from Rwanda’s Trinity Lawyers, and
- Kennedy Lodiong Kenyi, representing South Sudan’s manufacturing sector.
Advancing EABC’s Vision for Regional Integration
The 23rd AGM reviewed achievements for 2023/24 and charted the course for 2024–2026, focusing on enhancing regional economic collaboration. Key highlights included the reduction of non-tariff barriers and increased support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the EAC.
Significant amendments were made to the Memorandum and Articles of Association (MEMARTs), including the establishment of a Governing Council to improve decision-making efficiency. This structure is expected to accelerate the EABC’s mission to create a borderless East Africa for trade and investment.
Calls for Investment and Regional Growth Opportunities
The AGM also emphasized investment opportunities in the region. Mr. Frank Mbando, the Chief Guest and Assistant Regional Administrative Secretary, urged leaders to capitalize on Arusha’s potential in the edible oil and textile sectors. He also highlighted the economic prospects associated with hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027) across Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
New Leadership’s Commitment to Progress
In his acceptance speech, the newly elected Chairperson, Mr. John Lual Akol Akol of South Sudan, pledged to uphold the EABC’s mission. “The EABC remains committed to removing trade barriers and advancing a unified regional market for the benefit of all,” he stated.
Mr. Akol expressed gratitude to the outgoing leadership for their dedication and stressed the importance of fostering a thriving environment for businesses to succeed.
Key Achievements and Future Goals
The AGM celebrated notable progress in reducing trade barriers and advancing initiatives to support SMEs. Secretary to the EABC Board, Mr. Adrian Njau, reiterated the council’s focus on accelerating regional integration and creating opportunities for private-sector growth.
“With the new leadership, we are poised to achieve stronger trade and investment collaboration, paving the way for economic prosperity across the East African Community,” Mr. Njau noted.
Uganda’s Role in Shaping the EAC’s Future
The election of Uganda’s representatives to the EABC leadership not only reflects the country’s growing influence but also its unwavering commitment to fostering regional cooperation. As part of the Governing Council, Simon Kaheru, Oscar Kamukama, Bruce Mpamizo, and Kenneth Ayebare are well-positioned to drive initiatives that will enhance the EAC’s economic landscape.
Conclusion
The 23rd EABC AGM has set a strong foundation for the future, with Uganda’s leaders playing a central role in shaping regional policies and strategies. Their collective efforts will undoubtedly strengthen East Africa’s private sector and ensure sustainable economic growth for years to come.
