The Uganda Manufacturers Association has elected Mr Deo Kayemba as its new chairman replacing Barbra Mulwana a daughter of its founding chairman late James Mulwana.
Kiyemba was elected during the Members’ Annual General Meeting held at the UMA Multipurpose Hall, Lugogo on 2nd December 2021.
UMA is authorized to promote interests of industrialists and manufacturers in Uganda.
Kayemba has served UMA for over 20 years, on the board in his own capacity as the managing Director East African Roofing Systems.
While giving his victory speech, he said his main focus will be to support and grow more Small and Medium sized enterprises.
He called upon Government to support the SMEs in ways beyond the finances; especially in tax policy, tax rates and working space among others.
Kiyemba believes that with improved tax policies and Government support this will be possible.
With the Government support, Uganda has a big competitive advantage in the Agricultural value addition especially in manufacturing sugar, milk and poultry products among others.
UMA also commits to promoting young and infant businesses in order for them to survive beyond their first year of operation.
Kayemba’s term of offices runs until 2023 with a possibility of extension depending on the members decision but will also be determined by his performance for the period of 2 years.