Tayebwa urges OACPS nations to prioritise value addition and industrialisation

The Deputy Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, has urged member states of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) to prioritise value addition and industrialisation in their economic development strategies. Speaking at the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly in Midrand, South Africa, Tayebwa emphasized the need for African countries to move away from exporting raw materials and instead focus on adding value to their products. He argued that this would not only increase revenue but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Tayebwa also called for increased investment in infrastructure, particularly in the areas of transportation and energy, to support industrialisation. The OACPS Parliamentary Assembly brings together lawmakers from over 80 countries to discuss issues of common interest and promote cooperation. Tayebwa’s remarks come at a time when many African countries are seeking to diversify their economies and reduce their dependence on primary commodities. By prioritising value addition and industrialisation, these countries can increase their competitiveness in the global market and achieve sustainable economic development.