PACKAGING

Uganda launches a national Packaging Centre of Excellence in Kampala

By our African Marketing Confederation News Team | 2026

Government says weak packaging has hindered the country’s ability to capitalise on its product development and manufacturing base

Uganda has unveiled the Packaging Centre of Excellence (PCOE), a national facility which aims to elevate product branding, packaging standards and market readiness for locally manufactured goods.

Launched during the recent National Science Week in Kampala, the centre aims to tackle structural challenges that have historically limited the reach of Ugandan products in both regional and international markets.

Photo: Packaging Centre of Excellence

The Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Monica Musenero, noted that weak packaging has consistently hindered Uganda’s ability to capitalise on its product development and manufacturing base.

The new Packaging Centre of Excellence is envisioned to bridge this gap by offering support in research-based packaging design, consumer testing, regulatory alignment and material selection.

Packaging is crucial if Ugandan products are to compete effectively

According to local media reports, improved packaging is seen as critical for Ugandan products to compete effectively within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and in other global markets.

Dr Ezra Rubanda Muhumuza, Director of the Uganda Manufacturers Association, emphasised that packaging serves as the face of a brand, highlighting the “packaging paradox” where modern designs must simultaneously protect products, communicate clearly, and remain easy to handle.

Uganda currently spends more than US$400-million annually importing packaging materials. Dr Musenero called upon innovators and clients to make use of the centre for proper guidance and knowledge, describing the facility as a “great innovation for us”.

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