The Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), in partnership with Mastercard Foundation and The African Management Institute (AMI) this week, hosted a meeting for stakeholders in Uganda’s Business Development Services (BDS) ecosystem aimed at enhancing the capacity and quality of BDS offered to Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The event brought together leaders and innovators from the BDS ecosystem, focusing on fortifying the capabilities of BDS providers to catalyse the growth of MSMEs in the country.
Addressing stakeholders, Stephen Asiimwe, the CEO of PSFU, emphasised the vital role of MSMEs as the backbone of Uganda’s economy, while highlighting the pivotal challenges they face, including limited access to finance and a lack of essential business skills. He pointed out that BDS providers are crucial in bridging these gaps and offering the support MSMEs need to thrive thus the need to standardise and enhance the quality of BDS.
To address these challenges, PSFU and AMI launched an extensive BDS training program that among others seeks to enhance the capacity and quality of BDS providers across Uganda through a standardised framework.
Mrs. Rebecca Harrison, CEO of AMI, highlighted that the programme was built from AMI’s proven training methodology – a practical, tools-based learning model equipping BDS providers with the necessary tools and diagnostics to effectively support SMEs.
She said that the programme has to date more than 217 BDS providers have received comprehensive training, elevating the standards of business support services nationwide. The program facilitated the development of two core standards focusing on “Building Organizational Capacity” and “Delivery of Business Development Services,” addressing critical gaps in the BDS sector.
“This initiative thrived on a deep understanding of the Ugandan Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) ecosystem, achieved through extensive consultations and the involvement of local standards experts. The approach embraced a consultative methodology that integrated diverse perspectives from various stakeholders, ensuring widespread acceptance and adoption of the guidelines,” further explains a public statement issued by the partners.
“Extending its reach beyond Kampala, the initiative made significant strides into rural areas as well, addressing accessibility challenges and fostering a sense of community among providers. This comprehensive strategy not only elevated the quality of business support across Uganda but also set a new benchmark for future BDS training programs, underscoring the importance of local ownership, practical tools, and broad-based inclusivity in achieving sustainable business development outcomes,” added the statement.
Moving forward, PSFU said it remained committed to strengthening collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperative to expand BDS interventions and raise awareness. It also committed to establishing effective mechanisms, including a BDS portal and provider certification, to ensure quality and sustainability. It also committed to continuing efforts to empower MSMEs and achieve collective goals for Uganda’s economic development.
“PSFU’s dedication to enhancing BDS services reflects its broader mission to support MSMEs and foster a prosperous business environment in Uganda. The ongoing collaboration with key partners and stakeholders underscores a shared commitment to sustainable growth and inclusive economic development,” the statement said.