KAMPALA, UGANDA — President Yoweri Museveni has renewed the contract of Robert Mukiza as Director General of the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) for a second five-year term, signaling continued confidence in the agency’s leadership.
Mukiza, who first took office in 2021, has overseen a period of increased investment inflows and project approvals. Under his leadership, foreign direct investment (FDI) is reported to have grown from $2.99 billion to $3.5 billion, while the authority licensed 481 projects expected to generate more than 53,000 jobs.
In a statement shared by UIA, the agency welcomed the president’s decision, describing it as a strong endorsement of Mukiza’s performance. “We applaud President Museveni for the firm vote of confidence in our indefatigable Director General and warmly congratulate Mr. Mukiza for the renewed five-year office term,” the authority said, adding that it looks forward to attracting more both foreign and domestic direct investment.
During Mukiza’s tenure, Uganda has also received recognition as one of Africa’s top investment destinations between 2022 and 2024, a development officials attribute to improved investor confidence and policy reforms.
However, his first term was not without challenges. In 2024, scrutiny emerged over an internal service award and concerns raised by members of the UIA board, sparking public debate about governance at the agency. Despite this, the president’s renewal decision suggests confidence in Mukiza’s broader performance and strategic direction.
According to sources familiar with the directive, President Museveni has tasked the UIA with intensifying efforts in developing industrial parks, with a focus on manufacturing and job creation as Uganda pursues its long-term ambition of building a $500 billion economy.
The renewal places Mukiza at the helm of the agency during a critical phase, as Uganda seeks to consolidate gains in investment promotion and translate them into tangible industrial growth.
Stakeholders in the investment and business community have since welcomed the decision, expressing optimism that continuity in leadership will help sustain momentum in attracting investors and expanding Uganda’s industrial base.
