Uganda: A Pamphlet for Start-up Companies Published in Uganda

4.6.2008

An information pamphlet for small and medium-sized companies in Uganda has recently been published in relation to ICEIDA’s entrepreneurship project in the country. “This is a very useful guide for entrepreneurs concerning ways to seek funds and expertise counseling regarding various aspects of running a business,” says Skúli Helgason, the deputy chairman of ICEIDA’s Board, who was present when the pamphlet came out not too long ago.

ICEIDA has over the last three years work with the locals on a project concerning entrepreneurship training with the purpose of promoting a self-sufficient and competitive private sector in Uganda. “A strong entrepreneur culture is one of the most noteworthy differentia of the economy in Uganda,” says Skúli. “It is interesting that 90% of the private sector’s output stems from small and medium-sized companies. The entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in the great response to the entrepreneur training courses which Icelanders have funded over the last few years and this great interest confirms the need for retraining for single workers and business owners with small and medium-sized companies.”

The preparations for the entrepreneur training courses started in 2006 when eight instructors came to Iceland and received training under the auspices of Reykjavík University’s continuous education department. The first courses were held in 2007 and now 780 individuals have completed this course which has been held in twelve districts in Uganda. “It is especially gratifying that the demand has exceeded all hopes and in the latter part of 2007 almost twice as many people attended the entrepreneur training courses than plans presumed,” says Skúli Helgason.