Kampala, Uganda — March 26, 2026: Uganda has taken a significant step toward strengthening its enterprise support ecosystem following the official launch of the country’s first national association for Business Development Services (BDS) providers by State Minister of Trade in charge of Industry, David Bahati.
The newly established association aims to bring together organisations and professionals offering business support services—including training, mentorship, financial advisory, and market access facilitation—under one coordinated platform.
The initiative is expected to improve the quality, accessibility, and standardisation of services provided to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Uganda.
Speaking at the launch event in Kampala, Bahati emphasised the critical role BDS providers play in driving industrial growth and economic transformation. He noted that the association will help streamline service delivery, promote best practices, and enhance collaboration between the public and private sectors.
“This milestone marks a new chapter in supporting entrepreneurs and businesses to grow sustainably. By organising BDS providers under one umbrella, we are ensuring better coordination, improved service standards, and wider reach, especially for small businesses that need these services the most,” Bahati said.
Stakeholders in the private sector welcomed the move, describing it as timely and necessary for improving Uganda’s business environment. Many noted that while BDS providers have existed in the country for years, the lack of a unified body has limited their impact and visibility.
The association is also expected to advocate for policies that support enterprise development, strengthen capacity among service providers, and create a structured framework for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of BDS interventions.
Uganda’s MSME sector, which contributes a significant share of employment and economic activity, is anticipated to benefit greatly from the initiative.
Analysts say improved access to high-quality business development services could enhance competitiveness, innovation, and resilience among local enterprises.
The launch aligns with the government’s broader industrialisation agenda, which prioritises value addition, skills development, and private sector growth as key drivers of economic progress.
 providers by State Minister of Trade in charge of Industry, David Bahati.){kind=link}