The President of the Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (UNCCI), Olive Kigongo, recently hosted Venezuela Ambassador Fatima Fernandes Juarez to discuss ways of strengthening economic ties between the two countries.
A statement from the UNCCI communications office said Ambassador Juarez was accompanied by Rafael Arrundell James, the Deputy Head of Mission.
“The purpose of Ambassador Juarez’s visit was to explore potential avenues for economic collaboration between the two nations,” the statement noted.
“A focal point of the discussions was the upcoming “International Congress of Entrepreneurs,” which is set to take place from March 17-19, 2025, in La Carlota, Miranda State, Venezuela.”
According to UNCCI, the congress is designed to inspire, educate, and connect entrepreneurs, while also promoting innovation and creativity across various industries.
Ambassador Juarez invited UNCCI to participate in the congress, underscoring the valuable opportunity for Ugandan businesses to engage with international entrepreneurs and explore export opportunities.
The envoy highlighted key sectors of potential cooperation, such as agriculture (with a focus on value addition), tourism, and natural resources, particularly oil, gold, and diamonds.
“In Venezuela, we have oil, minerals like gold and diamonds, and a strong agricultural sector where we prioritize value addition before exporting. Our tourism sector also offers opportunities for learning new technologies and strategies,” said Juarez.
Kigongo expressed UNCCI’s readiness to collaborate with Venezuela in promoting trade and connecting businesses to global markets.
“This initiative represents a pivotal moment in forging deeper economic ties between Uganda and Venezuela. By attending the International Congress of Entrepreneurs, businesses from Uganda can expand their global footprint, network with international entrepreneurs, and explore new market opportunities,” she stated.
The congress is expected to bring together business delegations from across the world, providing a platform to showcase Venezuela’s business potential and investment opportunities, the chamber stated.
“This partnership marks a crucial milestone in the long-term economic development of both nations, highlighting the importance of cross-border collaboration for fostering growth and innovation.”
About UNCCI
According to their website, UNCCI is the oldest nationwide umbrella organization for the private sector in Uganda. It represent members from all sectors of the economy, including internal and external trade, industry, tourism, transport, and services.
UNCCI focuses on advocating economic policies and interventions that encourage a favorable business environment.
Founded in 1933, UNCCI was created by the business community during a time of economic anxiety caused by the Great Depression and the Second World War. The organization was established to protect the interests of its members.
After a setback during the 1972 expulsion of Ugandans of Indian origin, UNCCI was reconstituted in 1978. It was registered as a company limited by guarantee, governed by a set of by-laws enshrined in its articles and memorandum of association.
UNCCI boasts a multi-sectoral membership with nationwide outreach, characterized by a network of district chamber branches in over 126 districts across Uganda. This extensive network allows UNCCI to effectively support the growth of businesses in all regions.
Through its global network, UNCCI fosters commerce and industry relations both within Uganda and internationally.
