London, September 15, 2024 — At the UK-Africa Trade Summit, Lars Peter Jensen, Branch Manager for East Africa at Colas Ltd, provided a candid and insightful overview of the company’s transformative infrastructure projects in Uganda. Jensen focused on Colas Ltd’s work in constructing the new Kabale International Airport and the upcoming road rehabilitation projects in Kampala, emphasizing both the rewards and challenges of doing business in Uganda’s infrastructure sector.

Colas Ltd’s Role in Uganda’s Infrastructure Growth

Jensen, who has been based in Uganda since 2016, shared his firsthand experiences of the pressing infrastructure needs in the country, particularly in the capital city, Kampala. He described the contrast between the warm reception at Uganda’s airport and the reality of navigating the city’s pothole-ridden roads. This, he noted, underscores the urgent need for road rehabilitation in a city that generates 65% of Uganda’s GDP.

Colas Ltd, in partnership with UK Export Finance, has been actively engaged in road revitalization efforts, with a particular focus on Kampala’s roads. "Kampala has suffered from chronic underfunding for its infrastructure," Jensen remarked, but expressed optimism about the progress of securing contracts to begin rehabilitation work.

Navigating Challenges and Building Local Partnerships

Jensen emphasized the importance of patience and local partnerships when engaging in Uganda’s infrastructure projects. "We began discussions with Kampala City in 2017, and now, in 2024, we are very close to securing a contract," he said, highlighting the lengthy process of working through local bureaucratic and financial hurdles.

Reflecting on the delays, Jensen advised prospective investors to prioritize building strong local partnerships with experts who understand the market and local processes. "There are no quick fixes. You have to be in it for the long haul," he cautioned. He suggested that with a deeper understanding of local procedures from the outset, Colas Ltd could have accelerated the project by two or three years.

Optimism for Uganda’s Future

Despite the challenges, Jensen remains optimistic about Uganda’s infrastructure development. He praised the role of the British Chamber of Commerce in Uganda, which he helped establish, as a key player in supporting foreign businesses looking to invest in Uganda. "We are here to support anyone interested in trading or investing in Uganda," Jensen said, underscoring the country’s potential for growth.

Jensen’s remarks provided a realistic yet hopeful perspective on the complexities of undertaking large-scale infrastructure projects in Uganda, while emphasizing the critical role of local partnerships and long-term commitment in achieving success.