President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has dismissed the recent directive by U.S. President Donald Trump to impose a 10% tariff on Ugandan products, calling it inconsequential to Uganda’s long-term trade ambitions. In a statement that exuded calm and resolve, Museveni emphasized that Uganda would not be intimidated by what he referred to as “unilateral and self-interested decisions” by foreign powers.
“We will not be bullied. Uganda is the Pearl of Africa—rich, resilient, and self-reliant. Let those who wish to impose tariffs do so. We shall respond not with panic, but with strategy,” Museveni said during a press briefing at State House Entebbe.
The Tariffs and What They Mean
President Trump’s directive comes as part of a broader effort to tighten U.S. trade controls on countries it deems misaligned with Washington’s global interests. Uganda is among several African nations affected by the new policy, with the tariffs targeting a broad range of exports, including agricultural products, textiles, and handicrafts.
The 10% tariff could pose a significant challenge to Ugandan exporters, many of whom rely on the U.S. market for access to premium pricing. But Museveni remains unfazed, stating that Uganda will not allow its economy to be held hostage by foreign decisions.
“This is not the first time we are facing adversity. We have survived greater threats. Our future lies in regional integration, in building self-sustaining markets within Africa,” he added.
Shift Toward Regional Trade
In response to the U.S. tariffs, Museveni has announced a redirection of Uganda’s trade focus toward strengthening regional economic ties. This includes enhancing intra-African trade through platforms such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), East African Community (EAC), and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
Uganda already exports significant volumes to neighboring countries such as Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The government now plans to deepen those ties further by investing in infrastructure, reducing cross-border trade barriers, and promoting value addition to Ugandan goods.
“Why cry over lost access to distant markets when your neighbor is ready to trade with you?” Museveni asked rhetorically. “The future is Africa. We must build our own prosperity from within.”
Economic Experts Weigh In
While some economists warn that the tariffs could reduce Uganda’s export earnings in the short term, many agree with Museveni’s strategy to focus on regional self-reliance. Dr. Fred Muhumuza, an economist at Makerere University, noted that the American market, though valuable, is not indispensable.
“This is an opportunity for Uganda to diversify its trade and reduce over-dependence on any single partner. The regional market is growing, and that’s where our comparative advantage lies,” he said.
A Call for Unity and Innovation
Museveni’s comments also included a call to Ugandans to embrace innovation, industrialization, and agricultural modernization in order to reduce dependency on foreign aid and markets.
“Let us not be exporters of raw materials alone. Let us process, brand, and sell finished products to our fellow Africans. This is how we build a strong, independent Uganda,” he concluded.
Final Word
Though the Trump administration’s tariffs are sure to ruffle feathers, Uganda’s leadership appears undeterred. Instead of retreating, the government is doubling down on building economic resilience and regional cooperation. Whether or not this shift yields immediate benefits, it marks a pivotal moment in Uganda’s journey toward trade sovereignty and long-term economic transformation.
