In a bid to promote trade, investment, political, social and cultural relations, the government of Czech Republic has formally opened a new consulate in Uganda.
The new consul to Kampala is Mr. Stephen Mpuuga Kaboyo.
Earlier on last week, Mr. Stephen presented his credentials to the state minister for international affairs Hon. Henry Oryem Okello during a colorful ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kampala.
The ceremony was also attended by Czech Republic’s Head of Mission in Nairobi, Ambassador Martin Klepetko.
‘’We would like to develop our business, diplomatic ties and many other areas of cooperation. We are indeed ready to jump in whenever there are opportunities. We will bring in our companies and experts to develop the cooperation between the two countries.’’ Said Ambassador Klepetko.
While at the ceremony, Mr. Kaboyo said that his primary responsibility is to promote trade and investment between Czechia and Uganda as he communicated in light of his appointment.
“There is a lot that Uganda and Czech can do. The Czech Republic is a highly industrialised economy and very diversified. It is a member of the European Union. My focus will be in agribusiness, health, and education. For instance they have the best universities in Europe.” Kaboyo said.
The key sectors of the Czech economy include automobile, aerospace, high tech engineering rail, IT software, defence systems, agri-business and tourism.
The Czech economy is a developed export-oriented market based on manufacturing, innovation and services. It is a highly industrialized country with the industry sector accounting for 38% of the economy.
The GDP of Czech is above 250 billion USD. It is the fastest growing economy in Europe averaging 4.4% for the last couple of years.
‘‘Clearly there are synergies that we can build between Uganda and Czech. A good example is our commodities. The Czech imports significant quantities of raw materials. This is a ready market for our exports. We do not have to look very far. The potential is there,’’ Kaboyo said.
He observed ‘‘Trade between Uganda and Europe still remains low. Finding markets for our exports will be one of my priorities. I will also be working hard to attract inward investment,’’ while explaining that Czech Republic was open for business.
‘‘I have had a chance to interact with the Czech private sector. They are keen to open and create closer dialogue with the Uganda’s business community at all levels. I will do this through creation of true economic and business partnerships,’’ he added.
Uganda exports to Czech Republic was $37.2 million during 2018. On the other hand, Uganda’s imports from Czech Republic were worth $2.66 Million during same year- according to the United Nations comtrade database on international trade
Exports to Czech republic from Uganda include: Coffee, tea, mate and spices, Animal, vegetable fats and oils, cleavage products, Dairy products, eggs, honey and other edible products.
The new consulate will see an improved inter state relations between Uganda and the Czech Republic with the biggest boost anticipated in trade.
