Nigeria and Uganda have bolstered their trade relations with the appointment of Ugandan Trade Representative Ani Bassey-Eyo to Nigeria, marking a significant step in advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement. This appointment was followed by the signing of commitment export orders, setting the stage for Uganda’s first official shipment of goods to Nigeria.
The event, which took place in December 2024, coincided with the inauguration of the Free Zones Export facility at Entebbe International Airport and the unveiling of Uganda’s AfCFTA Implementation Strategy. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who attended the signing, emphasized the importance of regional trade as a driver of economic transformation. He stated, “I am pleased to kick off the journey for the first formal exports of Ugandan products to West Africa under AfCFTA.”
As Africa realizes its economic potential, Museveni stressed the need for expanding trade beyond domestic markets to achieve sustainable growth. He also praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting the initiative and easing Ugandan products’ entry into Nigeria.
The initial shipment, set for the first quarter of 2025, will include coffee, black and green tea, milk, fish, and pharmaceuticals. This pilot consignment aims to gauge market demand in Nigeria and lay the foundation for further trade expansion.
Uganda’s Minister of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, Francis Mwebesa, highlighted the role of free zones in attracting investment and generating jobs, while Permanent Secretary Lynette Bagonza acknowledged the collaboration between government ministries and the private sector in shaping Uganda’s trade strategy.
Uganda’s push into the Nigerian market is part of a broader effort to position itself as a regional trade hub. In addition to Nigeria, Uganda plans to expand its exports to other AfCFTA member states by enhancing trade corridors and infrastructure.
