Why Uganda needs own defence solutions

Historically, Uganda, like many African nations, has relied heavily on foreign suppliers for its defense needs.

The Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Oboth-Oboth, has said the country's growing need for self-reliance in defense production. I

n an interview with the Nile Post, Oboth highlighted that enhancing Uganda's capacity to locally manufacture artillery and other defense equipment is essential for both national security and regional influence.

He identified several enterprises managed by the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), which is under the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), as key players in this ambitious plan.

Historically, Uganda, like many African nations, has relied heavily on foreign suppliers for its defense needs.

This dependency has created a vulnerability, particularly during global geopolitical tensions or crises when international suppliers may become unreliable.

Oboth stressed that reducing reliance on foreign weapons suppliers would help mitigate these risks and ensure Uganda always has the necessary tools to protect its sovereignty.

“We need to be able to manufacture what we need to defend ourselves,” Oboth stated.

Reliance on foreign suppliers not only leaves Uganda exposed to shifting political alliances but also to delays, inflated costs, and substandard equipment.

Local production offers greater control over the quality, quantity, and timely delivery of defense supplies, ensuring that the military is always adequately equipped.

Building Uganda’s capacity to manufacture defense equipment locally would also have significant economic benefits.

It would create jobs, develop skills, and facilitate technology transfer. By investing in the local defense industry, Uganda could stimulate its economy, reduce import costs, and promote technological advancements that could extend beyond the defense sector.

NEC, which oversees several UPDF enterprises, has already made strides in various industries, including agriculture, construction, and manufacturing.

By expanding its operations to focus more on defense production, NEC could increase its revenue and provide Uganda with an opportunity to tap into the growing demand for military equipment across Africa.

The continent faces numerous security challenges, from insurgencies to border conflicts, creating a market for high-quality, affordable military equipment produced within Africa.

“We’re not just thinking about Uganda’s needs. The aim is to provide solutions to other African nations as well,” Oboth said, suggesting that Uganda could become a regional hub for defense production.

Uganda’s security landscape has evolved over the years, with increasing threats from both external and internal actors.

Localising the production of military equipment ensures that the country can quickly adapt to emerging threats and develop specialized solutions tailored to its unique challenges.

This focus on local production is especially crucial given Uganda’s proximity to conflict-prone regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.

By manufacturing its own defense equipment, Uganda will be better positioned to defend its borders, support peacekeeping missions, and maintain regional stability.

Additionally, self-reliance in defense production strengthens Uganda's sovereignty, allowing the country to make independent decisions about its military strategy without being influenced by foreign entities that may have conflicting interests.

While the ambition to develop a self-sustaining defense industry is commendable, it also presents challenges.

Developing sophisticated military technology requires significant investment in research and development and the establishment of high-tech manufacturing facilities.

Uganda will also need to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of operating and maintaining advanced equipment.

Oboth acknowledged these challenges but expressed optimism about Uganda's ability to overcome them. “It won’t happen overnight, but with the right investments and partnerships, we can make it a reality,” he said.

To support this initiative, the Ministry of Defense is seeking increased funding to expand NEC-led enterprises and build the necessary infrastructure.

Oboth said the government was commitment to this plan would require cooperation across various sectors, including private partnerships and collaborations with academic institutions to drive innovation.

In an era where global defense dynamics are rapidly shifting, Uganda’s pursuit of self-reliance in defense production is both a practical and strategic move.

By reducing its dependence on foreign suppliers and becoming a producer of military equipment, the country not only bolsters its national security but also positions itself as a leader in regional defense solutions.

For Uganda, this isn’t just about defense—it’s about economic growth, regional influence, and long-term sovereignty.

As the country continues to develop its defense manufacturing capabilities, it will be interesting to see how these efforts reshape Uganda’s role within Africa and on the global stage.