The Buy Uganda, Build Uganda Policy Strengthening Uganda's Textile Industry

Source: The Kona

Uganda’s Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU) initiative is a government-led strategy aimed at fostering local production, consumption, and investment in Ugandan-made goods. Launched in 2014, the policy is designed to reduce reliance on imports, boost industrialization, and enhance Uganda’s competitive edge in global markets. The textile and apparel sector, a key focus of BUBU, stands to benefit significantly from this initiative.

How BUBU Supports Uganda’s Textile Industry

1. Stimulating Local Manufacturing and Job Creation

BUBU encourages businesses to prioritize locally sourced fabrics and garments, strengthening Uganda’s domestic textile production. By fostering demand for Ugandan-made textiles, the initiative supports the expansion of local factories, leading to increased employment opportunities within the sector. This shift is crucial in reducing dependency on imported clothing and boosting Uganda’s industrial base.

2. Government Procurement as a Market Catalyst

A core element of BUBU is the prioritization of local suppliers in government procurement. Public institutions, including schools, security forces, and healthcare facilities, are incentivized to purchase uniforms and other textiles from Ugandan manufacturers. This creates a consistent and large-scale demand for locally made fabrics, ensuring sustainability and profitability for domestic producers.

3. Strengthening Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Uganda’s textile industry is largely driven by SMEs, which often struggle with visibility and market access. BUBU provides a platform for these enterprises by encouraging local retailers, designers, and fashion brands to source materials from within Uganda. This not only supports SME growth but also positions Ugandan textiles as a viable alternative to imported products in both domestic and regional markets.

4. Reducing the Trade Deficit and Enhancing Self-Sufficiency

Uganda imports a significant volume of textile products, creating a trade imbalance. BUBU aims to curb this reliance on foreign-made goods by promoting self-sufficiency in textile production. By increasing domestic consumption of locally produced garments, Uganda can strengthen its textile value chain while reducing capital outflows to foreign suppliers.

Challenges and the Path Forward

While BUBU presents significant opportunities, its implementation faces hurdles:

• Limited Production Capacity – Many Ugandan textile manufacturers lack the capacity to meet growing demand. Investment in modern machinery and infrastructure is needed to enhance output.

• High Cost of Local Inputs – The cost of raw materials, particularly cotton processing, remains a challenge. Policies supporting affordable production and supply chain efficiency are essential.

• Competition from Low-Cost Imports – Imported second-hand clothing and cheap textiles continue to dominate the Ugandan market. Strengthening trade policies and enforcing anti-dumping measures will help protect local industries.

Regional and Global Opportunities

Uganda’s commitment to regional trade agreements, particularly the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), provides an opportunity to expand its textile exports beyond domestic markets. With strategic investment, policy enforcement, and industry collaboration, Uganda can position itself as a key player in Africa’s textile and apparel manufacturing sector.

As BUBU continues to evolve, its success will depend on sustained government support, private sector investment, and consumer commitment to buying locally made textiles. By addressing existing challenges and capitalizing on regional opportunities, Uganda has the potential to build a resilient, competitive, and globally recognised textile industry.