Uganda’s economic growth is poised to receive a significant boost from the acceleration of agro-industrialisation, a strategy that has garnered support from key stakeholders, including Stanbic Bank, plus the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF).
As such, this year’s Stanbic Bank Consumer Conference, which is to be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 7:30 AM-1:00 PM via Microsoft Teams, will explore solutions for accelerating agro-industrialisation in Uganda.
The Stanbic Consumer Conference, to be held with collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, aligns with the message of David Wozemba, the Country Director for the Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), who reiterates that; “We echo a resounding call to action for all stakeholders to join hands in advancing Uganda’s Agro-industrialisation agenda. The challenges are significant, but so too are the opportunities.”
Wozemba adds that, “By harnessing the transformative power of Agro-industrialisation, Uganda can unlock its vast agricultural potential, drive economic growth, and improve the livelihoods of its people.”
In the same vein, during his remarks at the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) conference early this year, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, the Minister of Agriculture, said that, “We must move, not with the times, but ahead of times. This calls for advances in technological research and practices, building agricultural systems that are resilient to climate change and other shocks, agro-industrialisation, and the like.”
It is important, therefore, to note that Agro-industrialisation, which involves the transformation of agricultural products into value-added goods, holds immense potential for driving economic growth, creating jobs, and increasing household incomes.
Commitment to Agricultural Development
Stanbic Bank has, over the years, expressed an unwavering commitment to the advancement of Uganda’s agricultural sector. For instance, through programmes like the Agri-Finance Loans, Growth Impact Accelerator Program, and others, at least 90,000 smallholder farmers have benefitted from a Shs30 billion partnership between Stanbic Bank and Opportunity International, a leading American global non-profit that works to build global financial inclusion and support the growth of rural businesses in the agricultural sector. The Stanbic Consumer Conference is, therefore, one of the many platforms that solidify the Bank’s commitment to seeking more avenues towards the advancement of agriculture in Uganda.
Role of Agro-Industrialisation in Economic Growth
Agro-industrialisation is vital for Uganda’s economic growth, as it enables farmers to:
Increases Value Addition
By processing agricultural products, agro-industrialisation increases the value of raw materials, generating higher revenues for farmers and businesses.
Creates Jobs
Agro-industrialisation creates employment opportunities in rural areas, reducing unemployment and poverty.
Boosts Exports
Value-added agricultural products can be exported, earning foreign exchange and improving Uganda’s trade balance.
Enhances Food Security
Agro-industrialisation can improve food availability and access, enhancing food security and nutrition.
Stanbic Bank’s Support for Agro-Industrialisation
Stanbic Bank, a leading financial institution in Uganda, has expressed its support for the acceleration of agro-industrialisation in the country.
The bank recognises the potential of agro-industrialisation to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods.
By providing financial solutions and expertise, as will be the case during the Stanbic Consumer Conference, Stanbic Bank can play a crucial role in facilitating the growth of Uganda’s agro-industrial sector.
Who Should Attend the Conference?
The upcoming Stanbic Consumer Conference on agro-industrialisation will bring together key stakeholders, including:
Farmers
Small-scale and large-scale farmers can benefit from agro-industrialisation and learn about new opportunities and technologies.
SMEs
Small and medium-sized enterprises involved in agro-processing and value addition can gain insights into financing options and market trends.
Policymakers
Government officials and policymakers who can shape the regulatory environment and provide support for agro-industrialisation.
Youth
Young entrepreneurs and innovators who can learn about new opportunities and technologies in agro-industrialisation and contribute to the sector’s growth.
Agro-industrialisation is therefore a critical strategy for driving Uganda’s economic growth and improving livelihoods.
With the support of stakeholders like Stanbic Bank, Uganda can unlock its agro-industrial potential, creating a brighter future for its citizens.
By working together, we can accelerate the growth of Uganda’s agro-industrial sector and achieve sustainable economic development.
To be part of the Stanbic Bank Consumer Conference, make sure to scan the QR Code in the image to register!