Real estate developers in Uganda have been urged to adopt the latest technologies in the international market to boost the country’s construction sector.
The call was made at the opening of the three-day Uganda Buildcon International Expo at the UMA Show grounds in Lugogo, Kampala, on August 8.
The expo, themed “Connect with the construction industry to build a better tomorrow,” aims to provide access to the latest products, machinery, and technologies for Ugandans.
“We aim to make sure Ugandans get access to the latest products, machinery, and technologies. As such, something that takes three months can be made in one month,” said Vijayanka Brighuvansi, Director of Exhibition Organising and Promoting Company of India.
Vijayanka noted that the expo was started in 2022 to help businesses in the housing and construction sector understand the leading products and technologies. “This is the third edition but before the expo was introduced to Uganda, Ugandans in the business had to travel to various countries to understand the latest advancement,” he said.
International players in the sector have been brought on board to showcase various technologies for the local community and stakeholders to learn about the latest developments. “They do not have to put in their time, effort, and energy to go to other countries to learn about them,” Vijayanka added.
The expo has attracted 130 local and international companies, up from 80 in 2022.
Ms Judith Nabakooba, Minister for Lands, Housing and Urban Development (MLHUD), who graced the opening ceremony as the chief guest, noted that the housing sector contributes 12 percent to Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and pledged government support for the sector. “We are progressing well with supporting the real estate sector with a proper legal framework that will enable it to realize its investment goals. This includes offering incentives to the private sector in your quest to recoup your investments,” she said.
Nabakooba highlighted various policies and laws in place to provide a framework for housing development and urbanization management. “We have put in place different policies and laws to provide tenacious security for everyone with the hope in the private sector being the lead in creative housing solutions,” she said.
Mr Namit Gupta, Director of Futurex Group, applauded all the partners for their commitment to supporting the expo in all the countries where it is held.
