Uganda’s trade, tourism and industry minister Kahinda Otafiire has called for more foreign investment in the country’s infrastructure and communication network.

Speaking at an investment forum for Uganda in the UK, Mr Otafiire recognised that Uganda was at a disadvantage because it is a “land-locked” country, but said that instead this should be seen as an opportunity to link up with neighboring countries. The best way to realize this was for more development in the country’s basic infrastructure and communications.

Mr Otafiire also declared that Uganda was permanently linked with the UK because of its colonial past. Several other Ugandan ministers were present at the forum, hoping to attract wealthy UK investors into what is become a more talked-about frontier market. The country’s vice-president, Gilbert Bukenya, was due to give the opening speech at the forum but was a late cancellation.