Uganda and Algeria to Strengthen Defence Industries Cooperation.

Yesterday, February 26, 2025, the Managing Director of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), Lt Gen James Mugira received a delegation of students and faculty members from the High Military School of Algeria at the NEC Headquarters in Bugolobi.

The delegation, led by Brig Gen Banhamouda Rabah, is on a one week visit to Uganda as part of a study tour to, among others, explore opportunities for cooperation and collaboration defence industries.

In his welcoming remarks,Gen Mugira emphasized the long-standing relationship between Uganda and Algeria. Referring to Algeria as the land of Martyrs and freedom fighters, Gen Mugira praised the people of Algeria for the bloody resistance against colonialism and saluted them for their spirit of struggle and contribution to peace and liberation of Africa.

He briefed the delegation on NEC’s contributions to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation, underscoring the critical role of defence industries in national development.

Gen Mugira explained that defence industries play a vital role in global security, economic development, and technological innovation. He stressed that local defence industries are essential for self-reliance and sustainability, enabling countries to supply their armed forces during combat thereby reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.

Gen Mugira highlighted the NEC’s multifaceted contributions to Uganda’s development, including infrastructure development, job creation, revenue generation, and import substitution through local production.

 He emphasized the NEC’s commitment to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation and its role in fostering technological advancements and skills development within the country.

Brig Gen Banhamouda Rabah expressed his gratitude for the insightful presentation made by  Gen James Mugira. He acknowledged that the delegation had gained valuable knowledge from the presentation.

Brig Gen Rabah emphasized the importance of cooperation and collaboration between Algeria and Uganda, highlighting the benefits of mutual support and partnership. He extended an invitation to Gen Mugira to visit Algeria, further solidifying the growing ties between the two nations.

Notable attendees at the event included Maj Gen Innocent Oula, Deputy Managing Director of NEC, Eng Brian Buhanda-General Manager NEC Construction Works and Engineering Ltd,Ms Shiela Temia, Business Development Manager at NEC, and Ms Kash Akantorana-Litigation Manager