Lord Collins Visits Uganda to Boost UK-Uganda Growth Ties
On 3–4 April 2025, Lord Collins Visits Uganda to reaffirm the UK’s commitment to sustainable development, economic collaboration, and innovation partnerships. The visit by the UK Minister for Africa marked a significant stride toward strengthening bilateral ties through trade, green investment, and medical research.
Launch of UK-Uganda Growth Dialogue
During his visit, Lord Collins announced the UK-Uganda Growth Dialogue, a quarterly policy and business platform between the UK and Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development.
This initiative aims to:
- Enhance commercial collaboration
- Identify investment opportunities
- Unblock trade barriers
- Foster economic policy alignment
The dialogue will serve as a launchpad for mutual economic growth and a stronger business environment across sectors.
Supporting Uganda’s Green Mobility Transition
Lord Collins toured Zembo, a leading e-mobility company in Uganda backed by Innovate UK and the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG). The firm is driving the adoption of electric motorcycles, reducing emissions and cutting costs for local riders.
These green initiatives:
- Save boda boda riders up to $500 annually
- Promote zero-emission transportation
- Create sustainable job opportunities
This showcases the UK’s role in supporting climate resilience and green innovation in Africa.
Celebrating Direct Flights Between UK and Uganda
Another highlight of the visit was a reception co-hosted by Lord Collins and Uganda Airlines, celebrating the resumption of direct flights between Entebbe and London Gatwick—the first such route in a decade.
This new air link is expected to:
- Boost trade and tourism
- Strengthen people-to-people connections
- Reinforce the historic relationship between the two nations
Lord Collins noted the flights would be “pivotal in fostering mutual growth.”
Advancing Health Research at Uganda Virus Research Institute
Lord Collins also visited the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), a cornerstone of UK-Uganda medical research cooperation. The institute benefits from over £25 million in funding from the UK Medical Research Council and British universities.
UVRI has contributed to:
- HIV/AIDS and Ebola research breakthroughs
- Global disease surveillance systems
- Public health policy innovation
In partnership with the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UVRI plays a critical role in controlling infectious diseases across Africa.
Conclusion
The Lord Collins Visits Uganda mission reinforces the UK’s role as a strategic development partner in East Africa. From advancing digital and green innovation to expanding medical research and improving connectivity, the visit reflects a future-focused partnership grounded in equality, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
As Lord Collins aptly summarized:
“We are dedicated to working closely with our Ugandan partners to achieve shared prosperity and a brighter future for all.”
