The State Minister of Finance for Investment & Privatization, Evelyn Anite, has visited Movit Products Limited, a leading manufacturer in the beauty and personal care industry in Africa. During the visit, Anite appreciated Movit for its substantial investment, employment opportunities it provides to citizens, and role in economic development.
She stated, “The government’s development plans, including maintaining a stable investment climate, providing a good road network, ensuring the availability of power, and nurturing an employable population, are all designed to benefit companies like Movit.”
She emphasized the importance of local investors, saying, “Local investors like Movit are not just contributors to the economy, they are examples for other budding entrepreneurs. They produce quality products that meet export standards, create jobs, and harness local expertise. The ministry is committed to ensuring that local investors not only survive but thrive in this country.”
The Ministry also provided 50 acres of land to help Movit Products expand.
On his part, Simpson Birungi the Founder & CEO of Movit Products Limited expressed his gratitude for the visit, noting that it is a clear indication of the government’s care and support for local investors. Movit has been in existence for 27 years as a first-generation family-owned and operated business.
“We take immense pride in the milestones we have achieved, growing from a small shop in Kikuubo to owning manufacturing Plants with presence in over 10 African countries.”
From his remarks to the minister, Mr. Robert Kitenda, Head of Communications & Corporate Affairs highlighted the potential for further growth, stating, “With a little more support from the government, Movit could achieve even greater heights. However, the cost of operation is becoming increasingly high due to policies that are implemented without consulting the manufacturers in the country. Most recently UNBS instituted a Digital Conformity Mark as a new mode of certification, this new model has increased the certification costs by over 20,000% in a period of only 4 months Movit has spent over 1 Billion Uganda Shillings almost triple the cost the cost the company spent on certification for the year 2023-2024.
These costs cannot be passed on to the consumers, thus eroding the already thin business margins. We humbly request a reduction in cost to support our operations.
He continued, “As we look to expand, we are limited by a lack of space, yet government has established initiatives to support local investors. We need a new home for the business to support its expansion plans. Additionally, we request to be consulted on policies that directly impact our operations, as a business.”
He noted that the visit by the State Minister of Finance for Investment & Privatization was a significant moment for Movit Products Limited, reaffirming the government’s support and highlighting the crucial role that local businesses play in Uganda’s economy.
