Uganda’s government has shown off powerful new military vehicles that were made right here in the country. This happened at a new showroom in Entebbe, where some of the locally made armoured vehicles were displayed for the public and officials to see.
These vehicles are made by the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), which is the business arm of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF).
The NEC has been working hard to reduce the country’s need to buy military equipment from other countries. Instead, Uganda is now making its own.
Photos of these new vehicles were shared online by government officials. Many Ugandans on social media had mixed feelings. Some were impressed with the progress, while others were more critical.
The NEC has been around since 1989. It works on different business projects, including making military tools and weapons. One of its key partners is Luwero Industries, and it also works with international companis like Streit Group from the UAE and Norinco from China.
These partnerships have helped Uganda learn how to build better equipment through sharing of skills and technology.
Some of the vehicles on display included the Streit Tornado, the Chui Infantry Fighting Vehicle, and the Nyoka Armoured Personnel Carrier. These are strong, heavily protected vehicles made for the military to use during operations and to keep soldiers safe.
The government hopes this new showroom will not only show off Uganda’s talent in defence technology but also help grow business and improve the country’s security. Uganda now wants to become a top player in military production in East Africa.