
Uganda Airlines Elevates Local Suppliers to Global Heights with Shs350bn Investment.
Uganda Airlines, the national carrier, has unveiled an ambitious plan to propel local suppliers to the international stage. This initiative, part of the “Buy Uganda Build Uganda” promotion, aims to foster collaboration with local businesses offering quality onboard products and services.
A $95 Million Commitment to Local Suppliers
Ms. Jenifer Bamuturaki, the airline’s chief executive, announced a substantial investment of $95 million (Shs355 billion) to support this initiative. During the inaugural Suppliers Forum held in Kampala, Bamuturaki emphasized the importance of aligning with current aviation industry trends, particularly the push for sustainability.
“Local suppliers need to align themselves with current trends in the aviation industry, such as the push for sustainability,” Bamuturaki advised during her speech at the forum.
The Inaugural Suppliers’ Forum: A Platform for Collaboration
The Suppliers Forum brought together stakeholders, policymakers, and the management of Uganda Airlines, with discussions centered around collaboration with formalized local suppliers. The aviation industry is keen to source quality products from local businesses to enhance the onboard experience for passengers.
Bamuturaki revealed that Uganda Airlines has earmarked Shs355 billion to facilitate the local sourcing of onboard services, including beverages and other amenities. This initiative is set to involve more than 200 formalized local suppliers.
“We are going to work with more than 200 local suppliers that are formalized, starting from beverages and other onboard services to drive Uganda’s promotion initiative of ‘Buy Uganda Build Uganda’,” Bamuturaki stated.
Opening Global Markets for Local Products
The airline’s strategy extends beyond sourcing quality products for its flights. It aims to open international markets for these local suppliers. If their products gain traction and appeal to international customers, Uganda Airlines will leverage its extensive network of destinations to expand their market reach.
“The limitless sky the airline is opening for local suppliers is that should their products’ quality snare the taste buds beyond Uganda’s skies, Uganda Airlines will open the market for them across its destinations and connections,” Bamuturaki explained.
Leveraging Technology for Strategic Sourcing
The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) has tasked Uganda Airlines’ management with strategically sourcing local suppliers from formalized businesses. This will involve leveraging technology through electronic procurement to streamline the sourcing process.
By embracing this modern approach, Uganda Airlines aims to enhance efficiency and transparency in its procurement processes, ensuring that local suppliers have a fair and equal opportunity to participate.
A Vision for Sustainable Growth
Uganda Airlines’ initiative not only supports local businesses but also aligns with broader national goals of economic growth and sustainability. By promoting local products on a global scale, the airline contributes to the development of Uganda’s economy and helps build a robust, self-sustaining local industry.
As Uganda Airlines continues to expand its fleet and routes, this collaboration with local suppliers promises to elevate Ugandan products to new heights, showcasing the nation’s potential and quality on the world stage.
Uganda Airlines’ Shs350bn investment marks a significant step towards integrating local suppliers into the global aviation market. Through strategic collaborations, the airline is set to enhance its onboard services while promoting Uganda’s economic growth and sustainability. This initiative underscores the airline’s commitment to fostering local talent and products, ultimately contributing to the nation’s development and international recognition.