KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda’s Minister of State for Privatization and Investment, Evelyn Anite, has urged citizens to actively support local manufacturing firms by prioritizing their products. Her call comes as the nation’s industrial sector continues its significant expansion, contributing to job creation and economic growth.

Speaking Saturday at the formal launch of global electronics giant TCL’s manufacturing operations here, Anite underscored the government’s “Buy Uganda, Build Uganda” (BUBU) policy.

“The quality of these products is exceptional, and they are very affordable because they are made locally,” Anite said. “Every purchase directly supports a fellow Ugandan who is employed in these factories, enabling them to earn a salary and provide for their families.”

Anite highlighted Uganda’s transformation from a “supermarket of the world’s products” to a growing industrial hub. She attributed this shift to President Yoweri Museveni’s deliberate industrialization policy, which she said has already generated 1.2 million manufacturing jobs. Companies assembling or manufacturing in Uganda benefit from a significantly lower 10% tax rate, compared to the 25% to 35% typically levied on imports, contributing to product affordability.

While celebrating the job creation, Anite also addressed the critical issue of fair wages for manufacturing workers. She stated it is no longer acceptable for individuals to work long hours for meager pay, especially given the substantial tax incentives offered to investors.

“It is simply not fair for someone to work from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. and earn only 5,000 shillings ($1.35) a day,” Anite asserted. She confirmed President Museveni has initiated tripartite discussions involving the Ministry of Gender, employers and employees to determine a fair minimum wage. In the interim, she implored investors to “pay our people decently, treat them fairly, provide them with protective gear, and ensure they are not exploited” to ensure high-quality output.

The launch of TCL’s operations exemplifies the industrial growth Anite champions. Alvin Wang, Regional Director for TCL East & Africa, noted that a successful year of operations in Uganda led to the formal launch. He acknowledged the Ugandan government’s favorable business environment for international businesses and expressed gratitude to both the government and consumers.

TCL has partnered with Uhome Holdings Limited, the home appliance arm of Tian Tang Group, which operates the Mbale Industrial Park. This collaboration has led to the investment and construction of what the companies call “Uganda’s most advanced television production line” at the park, creating more than 200 direct jobs. The venture also indirectly boosts employment through channel partners. Luke Wang, General Manager of Tian Tang Group and CEO of Uhome Holdings Limited, underscored that TCL products “made in Uganda” are among the most localized globally, reinforcing the BUBU policy. He highlighted TCL’s unique advantages as the world’s largest TV panel manufacturer, noting its technological leadership and flexible market strategy.

TCL aims to become Uganda’s top home appliance brand by the end of 2025. For the long term, the company plans to leverage its Ugandan production base to export to neighboring countries, targeting the broader East African market of “more than 100 million people.” Alvin Wang said TCL is already gaining traction across Africa, citing its status as the “first local home appliance brand” in Kenya.

The 2025 collection unveiled at the launch includes the 115-inch X955 QD-Mini LED TV, TCL’s largest available in Uganda, featuring advanced screen technology for clarity and a cinematic experience. The showcase also featured the TCL C6K TV Series with QD-Mini LED technology and new Q Series Soundbars, offering advanced audio features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

TCL Electronics operates in over 160 markets worldwide, specializing in a wide range of consumer electronics products, including TVs, audio devices, home appliances, mobile devices, smart glasses and commercial displays.