Amsterdam, August 26, 2024 – The bustling city of Amsterdam served as the proud host for the seventh edition of the Uganda Netherlands Business Convention (UNBC) from August 20th to 25th, 2024. An eminent platform, the UNBC annually gathers Uganda's diaspora business community alongside leaders, innovators, and policymakers from both Uganda and the Netherlands. This year’s convention, under the theme "Cultivating an AgriTech Revolution," was pivotal in fostering economic collaborations between Ugandan and Dutch enterprises. Hon Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, State Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development led the delegation from Uganda.

The event sought to establish robust partnerships by exploring best practices and sustainable solutions for agricultural advancements. With a focus on Agritech, the convention underscored the vital role of technology in transcending traditional agricultural methods, particularly within the Dutch agribusiness landscape. It offered a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and inspiration to refine operational practices, aiming to drive transformation and innovation in the sector.

The first two days of the UNBC were marked by tailored field trips to ten Dutch companies, giving delegates from Uganda an enriching opportunity to observe and learn from leading agricultural establishments in the Netherlands. It was an eye-opener for many, providing firsthand insights into diversified and technically advanced agricultural practices.

The third day was electrified by a vibrant conference that featured keynote speeches, investment panel discussions, and engaging business pitches from Ugandan and Dutch stakeholders. The day emphasized the hospitality and innovative spirit of the audience, setting the stage for potential partnerships in future undertakings.

Rounding off the convention, the fourth and fifth days embraced the Ugandan community's spirit with a series of social activities - a cultural tapestry that added warmth and connection, celebrating the shared roots and forward-looking aspirations of both nations.

Therein lies the unique strength of the UNBC: it’s not only Uganda's sole business-focused convention globally but also the one that intricately blends professional ambitions with culture, adding value through interactive field visits and family-like social gatherings.

In a world seeking sustainable growth, the UNBC 2024 made its mark by spotlighting mutual benefits in private sector cooperation between Uganda and the Netherlands. The successful conclusion of this event further cemented the UNBC as a powerful catalyst for change and progress.

The positive repercussions of the Convention are anticipated to foster lasting impacts on agribusiness, inspire a new wave of collaboration and innovation, and embody the collective resolve to advance agricultural development for a better future.

As we celebrate the triumphant end of UNBC 2024, plans are already underway for the next year's convention. The excitement is palpable as Uganda and the Netherlands look to expand this fruitful relationship, poised to make even greater strides in bridging gaps and creating new opportunities in agriculture and beyond.

Public Diplomacy

Uganda Embassy Brussels.