NAKASERO KAMPALA, 01 April 2026 — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has secured a significant commitment from the World Bank to fund several of Uganda’s flagship infrastructure and development projects, most notably the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).
During a high-level meeting at State Lodge, Nakasero, a World Bank delegation led by Mr. Qimiao Fan, Division Director for Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, and Uganda, confirmed the institution’s readiness to provide both financing and technical assistance for the railway project.
President Museveni emphasized that the SGR is a critical pillar in his strategy to lower the cost of doing business in Uganda. By shifting heavy cargo from roads to rail and water transport, and petroleum products to pipelines, the President aims to streamline regional connectivity and protect road infrastructure for passenger use.
”These are the funds I want,” President Museveni stated. “I want funds for capacity building and to give the basics for production at lower costs.”
The President identified three key drivers essential for Uganda’s economic growth: Affordable electricity, Access to low-cost financing and Efficient transport systems.
Beyond infrastructure, the World Bank pledged to support the modernization of Uganda’s agricultural sector. Mr. Qimiao announced that the Bank would provide training and financial support for agribusiness, specifically targeting value addition and agro-processing.
President Museveni welcomed this shift, noting that traditional agricultural education in Uganda had historically focused on raw material production rather than industrialization. He underscored that adding value to agricultural products is vital for creating employment and expanding the nation’s export potential.
The meeting was attended by senior Ugandan officials and World Bank representatives, reflecting the strategic importance of the partnership:
