E-commerce can be a powerful driver of economic growth, inclusive trade and job-creation across the world. The E-Trade and Startup Association of Uganda, a national initiative that helps organizations and startups unlock the potential of e-commerce, has officially launched at an event held at Fairway Hotel in Kampala, today Friday September 23rd, 2022.
The E-Trade Association was founded by four start-ups that have in a short period of time grown to be major contributors to job creation and national tax revenues. The four founding members include; SafeBoda, Jumia, Tugende and KTA. and invited others to strengthen the voice of all those harnessing the power of finance technology (FinTech) to create one strong voice in expanding and sharing the immense potential and opportunity in the e-commerce space.
In cooperation with the business for eTrade and Startup development, a private-sector-led advisory council that encompasses large corporations and small businesses from within Uganda, E-Trade and Startup Association of Uganda fosters inclusive development by promoting the uptake of e-commerce amongst its members.
Through joining the platform, organizations can connect with potential partners, learn about trends and best practices, access up-to-date e-commerce data, and be informed of upcoming e-commerce events, fund raising, among so many benefits.
Speaking on the launch, the Chairperson of the Association, Mr. Ron Kawamara says “The association comes at the right time when ecommerce is on its way to growth and development especially in Uganda and we as key players need to unite and work closely. This will help mold and create the future we need as far as ecommerce is concerned.”
He adds that all organizations, companies and startups that operate under the industry should join the association since through connection and collaboration, this will help drive policy making, uplift the customer experience and attract revenue generation amongst members.
The guest of honor, Hon. Kabbyanga Godfrey Baluku, the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance has applauded the E-Trade and Startup Association for bringing together industry players in an umbrella body, an avenue through which they can have a voice that the government can listen to when addressing any issues at hand.
Michael Wilkerson, the co-founder and CEO of Tugende Ltd notes; “It’s both exciting and a privilege to be part of this initiative because Startups are about the future. It is not a coincidence that members of the E-Trade and Startups Association have moved, in a fairly short time, to become some of the largest taxpayers and job creators in Uganda.”
Mr Wilkerson added; “the more exciting news is that startups and e-commerce are not just about elites, we are seeing digital opportunities providing livelihoods and opportunities for rural farmers as well as fishermen on lakes the same way for a boda boda rider right up to the top senior civil servants.”
