With the passing of Omulangira Dr. Paul Mawanda Kyabaggu on September 20, 2025, Uganda mourns one of its most enduring entrepreneurial pioneers. As founder and long-serving Chairman of Bukoola Chemical Industries Ltd (BCIL), Dr. Paul built the company into a household name and a pillar of Uganda’s agribusiness. His passing marks the end of an era—but also the beginning of a new chapter under the stewardship of his son, Dr. Peter B. K. Kyabaggu, who has been serving as Managing Director since 2023.
From Science to Strategy
Peter brings a unique combination of technical expertise and business leadership. He holds a PhD in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Manchester, along with earlier degrees from the same institution. His academic career was marked by research into advanced semiconductor devices and communications systems, and he also taught and mentored at Manchester before returning to Uganda.
Currently pursuing the Owner/President Management Program at Harvard Business School, Peter blends global business insight with local entrepreneurial energy. This combination positions him to reimagine Bukoola for the challenges of modern agriculture—climate change, pest resistance, and shifting market dynamics.
At the Helm of Bukoola
Since taking office in 2023, Peter has focused on ensuring continuity with innovation. He oversees the company’s broad portfolio of over 50 science-backed crop protection solutions, trusted by millions of farmers. Under his stewardship, Bukoola emphasises:
- Sustainability: embedding environmentally responsible practices into every aspect of operations.
- Innovation: driving research-led product development to address evolving agricultural challenges.
- Efficiency and Growth: improving operational performance, tightening financial controls, and pursuing regional expansion.
In his words, “I lead one of Uganda’s most established agro-chemical companies, committed to providing quality and affordable crop protection products since 1973. With my background in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, I bring a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic leadership to drive innovation and growth across multiple industries.”
Beyond Bukoola
Peter’s career reflects a broad entrepreneurial spirit. He is Co-Founder of Cabral Tech Ltd, a technology startup creating mobile solutions for underserved communities, and Co-Founder of eMaisha Pay Ltd, a fintech venture offering digital banking services for micro and small agribusinesses.
PRAU Honors Uganda’s Top Innovators at 9th Excellence AwardsHe also plays leadership roles across construction, real estate, and capital investment—through Crete Block Technology Ltd, Royale Property Consultants Ltd, and BIK Capital Ltd. These ventures underscore his belief in diversification and innovation as drivers of long-term impact.
Education and Community
Like his father, Peter is interested in education. He serves as a Director of St. Joseph of Nazareth High School, guiding the institution’s strategic direction and reinforcing the family’s tradition of linking business success with social empowerment.
A New Chapter in Bukoola’s Story
As Uganda reflects on the life and legacy of Dr Paul Kyabaggu, Peter symbolises both continuity and transformation. He inherits a business decorated with national awards and a trusted name in agriculture, but his challenge is to prepare it for the next half-century.
By blending scientific rigour, entrepreneurial drive, and a global outlook, Dr Peter Kyabaggu is ensuring that Bukoola Chemical Industries remains more than a company—it is a national partner in building resilient farming systems, empowering communities, and advancing sustainable agribusiness across East Africa.
In Peter Bukoola’s story, a son carries on a father’s vision, with eyes firmly set on the future.
