NEC Hosts Burundian Students, Highlights Defence Industry’s Role in Socio-Economic Development

Today, 8th April 2025, Lt Gen James Mugira, Managing Director of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), welcomed a delegation of students from Senior Command and Staff College Kinanira, Burundi at NEC Headquarters in Bugolobi, Kampala.

The delegation, led by Col Jonas Sushimike and accompanied by Uganda Military Attaché Brig Gen Ochan, was warmly received by Gen Mugira, who highlighted the long-standing cordial relationship between Uganda and Burundi.

Gen Mugira praised Burundi’s leadership for their Pan-Africanist stance, noting their joint efforts in fighting terrorism in Somalia.

Gen Mugira presented the significance of defence industries in Uganda’s socio-economic development, citing Article 209 of the 1995 Uganda Constitution, which mandates the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) to engage in productive activities for national development.

Gen Mugira said that as the commercial arm of the Ministry of Defence and UPDF, NEC plays a crucial role in producing goods and services beneficial to the defence forces, contributing to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

Gen Mugira emphasized the importance of local defence industries in providing self-reliance, sustainability, and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers, which can impact national security and sovereignty.

Gen Mugira also highlighted the significance of research and development in defence industries, particularly in high-technology weapon systems, enabling countries to be independent in science and technology. Additionally, local defence industries create jobs, providing employment opportunities.

Col Sushimike thanked Gen Mugira for the warm welcome and the UPDF leadership for hosting them. He expressed appreciation for the presentation, stating that they chose Uganda as a case study due to its advancements in defence technology and progress.

The delegation assured Gen Mugira that they would benefit from the experience and insights shared during their visit.