UK–Africa Business, organisers of the 15th UK–Africa Business, Trade & Investment Summit, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Absa Bank Uganda, marking a transformative initiative to support Ugandan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through global trade, investment, and learning opportunities.
This collaboration will form the cornerstone of the relaunch of the Absa Business Club—a dynamic platform designed to empower Uganda’s entrepreneurs through strategic partnerships, international trade missions, and tailored business solutions that go beyond traditional banking.
At the heart of this relaunch is a bold, partnership-led approach that positions the Absa Business Club as a driver of enterprise growth, providing members not only with finance, but also access to knowledge, markets, and regional and global networks.
A key feature of this transformation is Absa Bank Uganda’s delegation to London, which will participate in the UK–Africa Business, Trade & Investment Summit on Friday, 12 September 2025 at The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place. The delegation will be led by Ms. Irene Mutyaba Kabiri, Corporate Banking Director at Absa Uganda, who will also address the summit in a featured session titled:
This session will explore the role of commercial banks and DFIs in unlocking scalable business opportunities and enabling cross-border enterprise development.
🌐 International Trade Missions
📘 Expert Advisory & Capacity Building
🤝 Strategic Networking & Regional Learning
💼 Tailored Financial & Non-Financial Services
According to Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, the country’s exports rose by 26% to USD 9.3 billion in the 12 months to March 2025—a testament to growing global trade potential. Through this partnership, UK–Africa Business and Absa Uganda aim to help SMEs take full advantage of this upward trend.
Jennifer Bamuturaki, CEO of Uganda Airlines, welcomed the initiative:
“Our partnership with the Absa Business Club supports our mission to connect Uganda to the world. By enabling entrepreneurs to access global platforms, we are helping them tell their stories, secure partners, and scale their businesses.”
Tetteh Ayitevie, CEO of Prudential Uganda, also noted:
“Insurance remains a critical gap for SMEs. Less than 1% have adequate cover. Through this partnership, we are helping bridge that gap—empowering businesses with the protection they need to thrive.”
The UK–Africa Business Summit 2025 will convene 500+ leaders from government, DFIs, institutional investors, private sector, and capital markets across the UK, Africa, and the Commonwealth. With Absa Bank Uganda’s participation, this partnership reinforces a shared commitment to enterprise resilience, inclusive growth, and cross-border collaboration.
📍 Date: Friday, 12 September 2025
📍 Venue: The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London
🔗 Summit Website: www.ukafricasummit.uk
🎟️ Register: ukafricasummit2025.eventbrite.co.uk
#UKAfricaSummit #ukas2025 #AbsaBusinessClub #AbsaUganda #TradeAndInvestment #SMEdevelopment #UKAfricaConnections
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Deputy governor of the Central Bank of Uganda
Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba is Deputy Governor of the Bank of Uganda and Chairman of REEV Group of Companies. He is an economist and public policy advisor with three decades of leadership in macroeconomic management, fiscal reform, and performance measurement across Africa. He earned an MSc from the London School of Economics in 1992, a PhD in Economics from Makerere University in 2004, an MBA focused on central bank monetary policy and commercial bank competitiveness in 2013, and a BSS from Makerere in 1990.
Prof. Nuwagaba has delivered high-level assignments for multilateral and regional institutions, including the African Development Bank, the World Bank, IGAD, UNDP, FAO, WFP, IFAD, and the East African Community. Recent work includes macroeconomic management in fragile states for AfDB, ex-post evaluation of IGAD’s Regional Investment Programme, and national capacity development strategies for Somalia and South Sudan. He led Uganda’s FINSCOPE financial inclusion survey, served on audit and advisory committees at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, and contributed to mid-term reviews of Uganda’s National Development Plans.
His portfolio spans financial sector deepening, public expenditure analysis, monitoring and evaluation frameworks, land and resettlement policy, justice sector baselines, and infrastructure and agriculture impact evaluations. He has supervised doctoral and master’s research, published widely on urbanisation, poverty reduction, skills and employment, and economic transformation, and authored the 2024 book “Transformative Economics.”
Honours include the Golden Jubilee Independence Medal (2018), Paul Harris Fellow recognition by Rotary, and inclusion in “World Who is Who” (2004). A committed Rotarian, he has held leadership roles at club and district levels.
Prof. Nuwagaba brings an evidence-led approach to stabilising prices, safeguarding financial stability, expanding access to finance, and aligning public policy with long-term growth. His work bridges government, central banking, and development partners to advance investment, productivity, and inclusive prosperity.
Chief Executive London Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Karim Fatehi OBE, Chief Executive of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TBC), is expected to share insights on strengthening UK–Africa business linkages, supporting SME growth, and fostering bilateral trade through chamber-to-chamber collaboration. His perspective will highlight the critical role of business networks in enabling market access and driving sustainable commercial partnerships between the UK and Africa.
Businessman and Conservative Life Peer, House of Lords, UK
Lord Dolar Popat is a businessman, Conservative life peer in the House of Lords, and one of the UK’s most experienced parliamentary voices on UK–Africa trade and investment. Appointed to the House of Lords in 2010, he built a successful career in the hospitality and property sectors before entering public service.
Born in Uganda, Lord Popat brings a personal and strategic understanding of East Africa’s commercial landscape. As a former UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Uganda and Rwanda, with the Democratic Republic of Congo later added to his brief, he has played an important role in strengthening bilateral trade, supporting UK business engagement, and promoting investment-led partnerships across the region.
At the UK–Africa Investment Summit 2026, Lord Popat will share practical insights on deepening UK–Africa trade and investment relations, with a focus on enterprise, private sector growth, market access, and long-term commercial partnerships.
His perspective is especially relevant to discussions on the UK–Africa–India trilateral investment corridor, Uganda’s role as the 2026 Strategic Growth Partner, and the Summit’s focus on moving from access to production, from dialogue to execution, and from interest to bankable outcomes.
A strong advocate for enterprise, education, and stronger UK–Africa economic relations, Lord Popat continues to engage with business leaders, policymakers, investors, and institutions committed to expanding commercially credible partnerships between the UK and African markets.
His contribution to UKAIS 2026 will add depth to conversations on investment diplomacy, private capital mobilisation, regional trade corridors, and the practical conditions required to turn trade ambition into structured investment, industrial partnerships, and deal execution.
Assistant Secretary General, The Commonwealth
Prof. Luis Franceschi
Assistant Secretary-General, Governance and Peace Directorate
The Commonwealth Secretariat
At the 15th UK–Africa Business, Trade & Investment Summit, Prof. Luis Franceschi will contribute to the high-level dialogue on governance, institutional trust, and regional stability as enablers of sustainable investment.
Drawing from his leadership at the Commonwealth Secretariat and deep expertise in democratic governance, Prof. Franceschi will explore how transparent institutions, rule of law, and peacebuilding frameworks are essential to unlocking long-term investment and economic partnerships across Africa. His insights will highlight the role of good governance in de-risking investment environments, ensuring social cohesion, and advancing inclusive growth in line with the ATMS pillars (Agriculture, Tourism, Manufacturing, and Science & Technology).
Prof. Franceschi’s intervention will underscore the importance of aligning public policy with investor confidence, and the Commonwealth’s role in supporting member states to build resilient, just, and peaceful societies.
$1.6b, leads as Uganda's richest individual
Dr Sudhir Ruparelia
Founder and Chairman, Ruparelia Group
Dr Sudhir Ruparelia is one of East Africa’s most influential entrepreneurs, renowned for building one of Uganda’s largest and most diversified business conglomerates. His journey from exile to success is a powerful story of resilience, vision, and disciplined growth.
Expelled from Uganda with his family during the 1972 Asian exodus, he rebuilt his life in the United Kingdom, working various jobs and venturing into real estate trading. Returning to Kampala in 1985 with $25,000 in savings, he invested in ventures that would grow into a multi-billion-dollar portfolio. Within a decade, he established Uganda’s first licensed forex bureau and later founded Crane Bank, transforming the financial sector by increasing accessibility, extending service hours, and reducing banking costs.
Today, he leads the Ruparelia Group, with investments in banking, insurance, real estate, hospitality, education, media, and floriculture. Landmark enterprises such as Speke Resort & Convention Centre, Kampala Parents School, Meera Investments, and Rosebud Ltd have become national assets. His floriculture companies export over 150 million roses annually to the UK and other markets, meeting the highest Good Agricultural Practice standards.
Dr Ruparelia’s leadership has been marked by resilience, including overcoming the loss of Crane Bank in 2016 and regaining his position through a landmark Supreme Court ruling in 2022. Ranked by Forbes among Africa’s wealthiest individuals, he continues to invest with a steadfast belief in Uganda’s and Africa’s long-term potential. Through the Ruparelia Foundation, he supports initiatives in education, healthcare, and community development, cementing his legacy as both a visionary investor and a committed philanthropist.
Trade & Investment Advisor | Market Access Specialist
Richard has been a firm believer in the value of the Chamber movement and active participant in The London Chamber and several bi lateral Chambers/associations for many years usually as Director, Board member and Founder. For example, The Belgrade Wealth Forum was one of his initiatives and he has on going interests particularly concerning inward investment and related service providers. As a market access and international business development specialist, Richard has an eclectic skill set and up to date knowledge in order to facilitate business and is recognised as an empathetic multicultural facilitator with wide sectoral understanding. As a self-employed ‘strategic advisor’ he is currently retained, and has been for several years, by a wide cross section of companies, Harod Global investigative solutions, WakeUp Capital, NTLTrust, AltiaIntel and Dominion of Canada Rifle Association. Plus pro bono activities for The Entrepreneur Studio , London Board of Crime Stoppers and other mentoring activities for young people.
By way of background: Richard was born in Bermuda. His family, originally from Scottland/Ireland, moved to The Bahamas in 1958. His nationality is British. He attended boarding School in Edinburgh Scotland from 8-17.Clifton Hall and Merchiston Castle. Subsequently : York University , Glendon College, Toronto Canada. BA Hons. London School of Economics. MSc.Economics . Also attended The Sorbonne and Institute of Political Studies. Paris. Trained in International Private Banking and portfolio management Geneva Switzerland.BearBull/ CMF. Geneva , Paris, Nassau. Lloyd’s Bank, NatWest Monte Carlo , Monaco. Private Banking Management .JH Minet. Lloyd’s of London Insurance brokers . International market access specialist. Lloyd’s market Insurance exams. The Sovereign Group. International market access strategic advisor. Financial services. Harod Associates. Global investigative solutions. Integrity and due diligence investigations. Memberships and other associations: Chartered Institute of Public Relations, Caledonian Club, Worshipful Company of World Traders, Institute of Strategic Risk Management, All party Parliamentary Group for International trade and logistics.
Senior Presidential Advisor at State House
Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu Former Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Republic of Uganda Speaker, Mining and Energy Session Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu is a senior Ugandan political leader, former Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, and private-sector businesswoman with extensive experience across energy policy, mineral development, public leadership and investment-facing reform. As Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, she played a central role in shaping Uganda’s energy and minerals agenda during one of the country’s most important transition periods. Her tenure covered major reforms and milestones across electricity generation, transmission, petroleum development, mineral governance, state participation in mining, value addition and energy transition planning. Hon. Nankabirwa led Uganda’s engagement around the Energy Transition Plan, launched at COP28, which set out a long-term pathway for universal modern energy access, energy-sector modernisation, industrial growth, emissions management and regional energy positioning. She also oversaw major infrastructure and policy priorities, including the commissioning of the 600 MW Karuma Hydropower Project, expansion of national generation capacity, power distribution reforms, petroleum infrastructure development and preparations for Uganda’s entry into commercial oil production. In the minerals sector, she was closely associated with Uganda’s shift toward stronger state participation, structured investor engagement and domestic value addition. Under the Mining and Minerals Act 2022 framework, Uganda moved to establish a state-owned mining company to manage the government’s commercial interests and 15 percent participation in large and medium-scale mining projects. This approach was designed to strengthen Uganda’s ability to retain more value from its mineral wealth while working with credible private-sector partners. At UKAIS 2026, Hon. Nankabirwa brings a rare combination of ministerial experience, sector knowledge and private-sector insight. Her contribution to the mining and energy session will help UK investors understand Uganda’s energy and minerals journey from inside government, including the policy choices, infrastructure demands, investment opportunities and implementation challenges that define the sector. Her perspective will be especially valuable in discussions on mineral beneficiation, energy infrastructure, public-private partnerships, domestic processing, investor confidence, petroleum development, power supply for industry and Uganda’s wider ambition to move from resource access to bankable industrial value.
Corporate Banking Director, Absa Bank Uganda Ltd
Irene Mutyaba Kabiri
Corporate Banking Director, Absa Bank Uganda Ltd
Irene Mutyaba Kabiri is the Corporate Banking Director at Absa Bank Uganda Ltd, where she leads the delivery of tailored financial solutions for large corporates, multinationals, and public sector clients. With over 15 years of experience in banking and finance, she plays a key role in driving business growth, structuring complex transactions, and supporting strategic sectors of Uganda’s economy.
Her leadership focuses on relationship management, credit risk oversight, and aligning corporate banking services with evolving market needs. She has been instrumental in supporting clients across energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, and agribusiness through innovative financing models and advisory services.
Irene is committed to promoting sustainable finance and inclusive economic development. She advocates for strong partnerships between banks, businesses, and government to improve access to capital and accelerate national development goals.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and has completed advanced training in corporate finance and risk management. Her strategic perspective and client-focused approach continue to strengthen Absa’s position as a leading corporate bank in Uganda.
State Minister for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Uganda
Hon. Amos Lugoloobi – State Minister for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Uganda
Hon. Amos Lugoloobi is a Ugandan economist and senior government official currently serving as the State Minister for Finance, Planning and Economic Development and Member of Parliament for Ntenjeru North, Kayunga District. A member of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), he plays a key role in shaping Uganda’s fiscal policy and national budget processes.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Makerere University and a Master’s in Business Administration from the Eastern and Southern African Management Institute (ESAMI).
In Parliament, Hon. Lugoloobi actively contributes to the Business Committee, Finance Committee, and Budget Committee. Beyond politics, he supports community-driven development through projects focused on clean water, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.
1st Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for East African Community
Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga will speak on the critical role of regional integration in accelerating economic growth and trade across Africa. She will highlight the East African Community’s (EAC) progress in harmonising trade policies, removing non-tariff barriers, and advancing cross-border infrastructure. Emphasising Uganda’s strong commitment to the AfCFTA, she will encourage UK investors to use Uganda as a strategic entry point into the EAC and the wider African market, tapping into a more unified, accessible, and opportunity-rich trade environment.
Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga
1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs, Republic of Uganda
Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga is the 1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs of the Republic of Uganda. She plays a central role in coordinating Uganda’s engagement within the East African Community (EAC), advancing regional integration, and promoting cross-border trade and investment.
A seasoned lawyer, legislator, and advocate for inclusive economic growth, she served as Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda from 2011 to 2021, the first woman to hold this position. Over her three decades in public service, Rt. Hon. Kadaga has championed legislative reforms to improve governance, expand access to education and healthcare, and strengthen women’s participation in leadership.
In her current role, she focuses on accelerating the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) within the EAC, fostering regional infrastructure development, and promoting sustainable investments in priority sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and renewable energy. She also represents Uganda in high-level diplomatic and trade forums, engaging with international partners to position East Africa as a competitive and collaborative economic bloc.
Rt. Hon. Kadaga holds a Master’s degree in Women’s Law from the University of Zimbabwe, a Bachelor of Laws from Makerere University, and a Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre, Kampala. She is recognised for her leadership in advancing gender equality, economic empowerment, and regional stability across Africa.
International Trade and Economic Development Manager
Dr. Ilona Karpanos is an experienced International Trade and Economic Development Manager with a strong background in global markets, policy, and business strategy. She holds a PhD in International Relations from City University of London, with a focus on political economy.
Currently at the Chambers of Commerce, she supports UK exporters and facilitates international market access through trade policy advice, market analysis, and strategic engagement with investors and government officials. Her previous roles include Commercial Risk Analyst and International Trade Manager, where she led successful market entry strategies and drove significant revenue growth.
Ilona brings deep expertise in procurement, marketing, and commercial intelligence, with a proven track record in expanding global business operations and improving operational efficiency. She is passionate about fostering cross-border collaboration and unlocking growth in international trade.
Executive Chair, Hampshire Chamber of Commerce
Ross McNally
Executive Chair & Chief Executive, Hampshire Chamber of Commerce
Ross McNally is the Executive Chair and Chief Executive of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, a role he has held since 2017. With over 30 years of senior leadership experience, he has worked extensively across business membership organisations, leisure and tourism, franchise development, national business associations, and higher education.
He directs the Chamber’s strategy, represents the interests of local businesses in policy discussions, and oversees multiple regional Chambers and trading companies, including Portsmouth, Winchester, and North Hampshire. Collectively, these organisations generate an annual turnover of around £1.1 million.
Alongside his Chamber leadership, Ross serves as a Trustee of the Friends of Gibraltar Heritage Society and is a regular commentator in the media on economic issues and infrastructure projects affecting the South of England.
He holds postgraduate qualifications in business and leadership management and is recognised for his expertise in strategy, transformation, and organisational development. Ross is widely respected as a connector across public, private, and charitable sectors, working to strengthen Hampshire’s business community and regional growth.
Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Republic of Uganda
Hon. Mwebesa is a Ugandan entrepreneur and industrialist with more than 40 years of experience in the steel industry. He is the proprietor of a group of companies spanning steel manufacturing, timber treatment, wire products, farming, and iron ore mining and processing.
He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi. After completing his studies in 1970, he worked with Dunlop East Africa before joining East African Steel Corporation as General Manager. In 1980, he left to establish his current group of enterprises.
Hon. Mwebesa has served on several boards, including the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, and was part of the founding board and steering group that established Centenary Bank, now one of Uganda’s leading indigenous banks.
He was a member of the Constituent Assembly that promulgated the 1995 Constitution of Uganda. He has also served as Senior Presidential Advisor and, since 2021, has been the Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives.
Venture Partner; Chair, GBCC Black Business Collective,TIN Ventures
Alex Cole is a purpose-driven entrepreneur, impact investor, and policy advocate dedicated to advancing inclusive innovation, equitable entrepreneurship, and a sustainable economic transition. As CEO of TIN Ventures Ltd, he leads a venture-building and micro-investment firm that accelerates solutions addressing social mobility, employability, fuel poverty, and climate sustainability.
A prominent voice in promoting equitable access to economic growth, productivity, and trade policy, Alex operates at the nexus of entrepreneurship, investment, and public policy to drive systemic change. He plays an active role in shaping UK government strategies that foster inclusive economic development, broaden access to finance, and support the growth of sustainable industries.
Alex holds several influential leadership positions, including:
Chair, Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce – Black Business Collective – Championing diverse enterprises, inclusive supply chains, and economic empowerment.
Entrepreneur in Residence, The Open University – Advancing entrepreneurship education and fostering innovation pathways.
Non-Executive Director, Brixton House and Solo Housing – Strengthening governance and strategic growth in inclusive and creative organisations.
Advisory Board Member, Innovation Alliance of the West Midlands – Promoting regional innovation and industry collaboration.
Fellow, Royal Society of Arts (RSA) – Providing thought leadership on social impact, inclusive growth, and strategies for the creative economy.
His work is closely aligned with the UK’s Industrial Strategy, Levelling Up, and Net Zero agendas, ensuring that economic transformation benefits underrepresented communities, impact-led enterprises, and diverse entrepreneurs. Alex is especially committed to unlocking global trade and export opportunities for UK startups and SMEs, bridging the gap between innovation ecosystems, public policy, and international markets.
The PS & Secretary to Treasury, Ministry of Finance
Dr. Ramathan Ggoobi
Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development – Republic of Uganda
Dr. Ramathan Ggoobi is the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury at Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. Appointed in July 2021, he is the government’s chief economist and the principal advisor on fiscal and economic policy.
He is responsible for managing the national budget, overseeing public expenditure, and guiding macroeconomic strategy to support inclusive growth and the achievement of Uganda’s Vision 2040. His role includes strengthening public financial management, promoting domestic revenue mobilisation, and ensuring effective implementation of government programmes.
Before joining the Treasury, Dr. Ggoobi built a distinguished career in academia, research, and policy advisory. He served as a Senior Lecturer of Economics at Makerere University Business School (MUBS) and worked extensively as a consultant for government, development partners, and international organisations on issues of public finance, industrial policy, and economic transformation.
He has been a prominent voice in Uganda’s economic policy debates, known for his evidence-based approach and practical perspectives on how to accelerate industrialisation, create jobs, and modernise agriculture.
Dr. Ggoobi holds a PhD in Economics and is widely recognised for bridging academic research with policy practice. His leadership at the Treasury continues to shape Uganda’s economic reform agenda and long-term development strategy.
Dr. Ramathan Ggoobi, Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury at Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, will share Uganda’s bold 10X Economic Growth Strategy—an ambitious plan to grow the economy tenfold over 15 years. Anchored on Agro-industrialisation, Tourism, Mineral-based industrialisation, and Science, Technology & Innovation (ATMS), his insights will highlight Uganda’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth. He will also address systemic risks such as regional instability, climate change, and misinformation, emphasizing that managing these challenges is integral to the country’s long-term investment strategy.