Prioritise Local Firms for Road Construction, Capt. Mike Mukula Urges Government
KAMPALA – Renowned businessman and industrialist Capt. Mike Mukula has called on the Ugandan government to deliberately prioritise local road construction companies as a strategic move toward achieving genuine economic sovereignty.
In a passionate statement shared on his official social media platforms, Mukula argued that while the country has celebrated years of liberation, the next critical frontier must be economic and industrial self-reliance.
“We cannot continue to outsource major infrastructure projects while local capacity remains underdeveloped,” Mukula stated. He urged the government to intentionally invest in and support at least four credible Ugandan road construction firms, including the UPDF Engineering Brigade, to build a strong, competitive, and self-sustaining industry.
Mukula, who holds an MBA and an honorary PhD, cited Ethiopia as a successful example, noting that prioritising domestic firms accelerates skills transfer, creates jobs, and retains capital within the local economy.
The Pan-Africanist and Harvard Fellow was careful to clarify his position, stating, “This is not about rejecting foreign partnerships, but about correcting an imbalance that has long disadvantaged local enterprise.”
He emphasized that strategic infrastructure should be a foundation for national strength, not dependency. “By empowering Ugandan firms, we lay the groundwork for innovation, resilience, and true sovereignty,” he added. “The road to economic independence must quite literally be built by our own hands—deliberately, boldly, and with long-term vision.”
Mukula tagged several top government officials in his post, including President Yoweri Museveni, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Gen. Wamala, and Hon. Echweru, signaling a direct appeal for policy action.
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