Uganda’s Busoga Kingdom pursues UAE agro-processing, packaging hub

UAE – The Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV, held investment talks with UAE-based 5PL Logistics Solutions on 28 September 2026 in Abu Dhabi to explore an integrated agro-processing and packaging facility in Busoga.

According to a joint statement, discussions focused on replicating a similar model in Busoga through a facility that would combine agro-processing, post-harvest handling, modern storage and warehousing, packaging, cold-chain solutions and distribution services under one roof. 

The proposed hub is intended to address persistent challenges facing farmers and agribusinesses in the region, including high post-harvest losses, inadequate storage and limited value addition, while strengthening links between producers, processors and markets.

Packaging and Value Addition Target Raw Commodity Exports

The Kyabazinga emphasised Busoga’s agricultural potential and the need to shift from exporting raw commodities to value addition and improved market access. 

He said Busoga had vast agricultural potential and that the region must move from exporting raw commodities to value addition and improved market access, welcoming partnerships that brought modern technology, capital and expertise while creating jobs for youth and farming communities. 

Packaging sits at the centre of this shift, since processed agricultural goods require primary and secondary packaging capable of preserving freshness, meeting food safety standards and satisfying retail and export requirements.

Delegation Tours Warehousing and Supply Chain Operations

During the visit, the Kyabazinga and his delegation toured 5PL’s operations and were briefed on its integrated systems for warehousing, storage, inventory management, cargo handling, distribution and supply chain management. 

Mohammed Ali Al Hosani, chairman of 5PL, expressed interest in the opportunities presented by Busoga and Uganda and discussed possible areas of cooperation with the delegation. 

He said the company saw great potential in Busoga and was interested in exploring areas of cooperation that could create mutual benefit. 

Both parties agreed to continue engagements to assess the proposed project and develop a practical framework for partnership.

Embassy Commits to Facilitating Follow-Up Engagements

Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE, Zaake W. Kibedi, reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to facilitating follow-up engagements between 5PL, Busoga Kingdom and relevant government institutions to translate the discussions into tangible investments. 

The visit forms part of the Kyabazinga’s wider engagements in the UAE aimed at attracting strategic partnerships and investments to accelerate Busoga’s socio-economic transformation. 

For packaging suppliers and converters, such agro-industrial investments generate demand for cartons, flexible films, rigid containers and cold chain packaging suited to produce, dairy and processed food exports. 

The meeting highlights growing investment links between Ugandan institutions and UAE companies in agriculture, agro-processing and logistics, sectors considered important for reducing post-harvest losses, creating employment and expanding market access for Ugandan products.

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