URSB Board Chairman highlights Uganda’s business registration reforms at forum
Uganda Registration Services Board (URSB) Chairman of the Board, Rt. Hon. Ambassador Francis Butagira, praised the country’s streamlined business registration processes during last week’s Business and Innovation Forum for commercial attachés in Uganda, crediting Justice Minister Norbert Mao for championing the event that showcased Uganda’s investment advantages.
“Uganda is the best place for ease of doing business,” Ambassador Butagira told attendees, who included foreign diplomats, ministers, URSB board members, and government representatives. “We have implemented systems that enable seamless registration with almost all services available online.”
The Ambassador highlighted dramatic improvements in processing times, noting that company registration now takes just three hours compared to days in the past, while business name registration can be completed within an hour.
A key innovation is Uganda’s one-stop centre concept, eliminating the need for entrepreneurs to visit multiple offices. “From one space, you can access KCCA, URA, obtain your licenses, and even banking services,” he explained.
Amb. Butagira also emphasised Uganda’s progressive insolvency regime, which focuses on rescuing struggling companies rather than simply closing them. “We can help put companies back on their feet instead of sending them to a mortuary,” he remarked.
The reforms have shown measurable results. The National Registration Bureau, now a semi-autonomous entity, has increased revenue collection from UGX 300 million to UGX 80 billion, which the Ambassador described as “a sign of our efficiency.”
