Irene Birungi Mugisha Highlights Presidential CEO Forum’s Role in Driving Public-Private Dialogue and National Investment Strategy
World Business Journal talks to Irene Birungi Mugisha, CEO of the Presidential CEO Forum, about the organisation’s objective of creating a unified approach to development and investment by empowering dialogue with the public and private sectors, the impact of the organised retreats to date, and how harnessing effective dialogue contributes to the nation’s development and investment agenda.
What is the objective of the Presidential CEO Forum?
Established in 2021, we serve as a high-level public-private dialogue platform that brings together government leaders, private sector CEOs, policymakers, and stakeholders to shape economic reforms and policy direction. The Forum promotes mutual understanding and collaboration between the private sector and government, with the ultimate goal of driving Uganda’s sustainable economic growth.
Held twice a year and hosted by H.E. the President, our biannual retreats have become instrumental in advancing strategic partnerships, public-private joint ventures, and regional learning missions. These retreats align government and private sector goals, creating a unified approach to development and investment.
What key achievements have emerged from the previous biannual retreats, and what will be the focus and timeline of the upcoming 6th retreat?
We have organised 6 biannual retreats, generating 48 resolutions that have directly influenced policy and fiscal decisions. Among the outcomes are VAT exemptions for e-mobility and income from private equity and capital markets. These reforms signal a stronger, more responsive business environment.
Our input into the National Development Plan IV (NDP IV) has ensured that all retreat resolutions are embedded into the Program Implementation Action Plans (PIAPs). This has strengthened engagement between National Development Agencies (NDAs) and the private sector and catalysed major national projects, notably Kiira Motors, positioning it as a regional industrial leader.
How does effective dialogue influence economic growth and drive private sector expansion?
Effective dialogue is central to policy development, investor confidence, and private sector expansion. By promoting trust, transparency, and shared ownership of development priorities, PCF supports data-driven advocacy and inclusive growth. Current collaboration with the National Planning Authority is focused on developing a responsibility matrix to monitor the implementation of NDP IV commitments.
We are also working with the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC) to ensure our engagements are research-based and solution-oriented. At the same time, we are intensifying efforts to inform businesses—especially SMEs—about trade and investment opportunities under regional blocs like EAC, AfCFTA, COMESA, and SADC.
Clear regulatory communication, consistent political support, and grassroots feedback are essential for sustaining momentum. As Uganda’s economy continues to evolve, we remain committed to fostering actionable partnerships that deliver results beyond the boardroom.
