Excitement and fun filled Nile Hall at Hotel Africana on Thursday as Uganda’s top 50 brands were named for demonstrating superior business performance over the last 50 years.

Security minister Muruli Mukkasa hands over a plaque to New Vision reporter Patrick Jaramogi

Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi, trade minister Amelia Kyambadde and security minister Muruli Mukasa attended and awarded special accolades to the firms at the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) organised event.

New Vision scooped the media accolade for media excellence in the region. “We are very happy to be recognised as a top media brand as Uganda celebrates 50 years. This truly shows that people have confidence in us,” said Susan Nsibirwa, the head of marketing.

Eagle Air took the transport category, while Sekanyolya Systems, Shoprite Checkers and Select Garments won the trade and commerce categories respectively.

“I feel re-energised. These are difficult economic times, but for us to have won shows the confidence Ugandans have in us. Select Garments thanks all those who voted for us and for the customers who have supported us over the years,” said Robert Ahimbisibwe, the CEO.

Great Lakes Safaris scooped the tourism award followed by Geo Lodges. “I thank people for trusting our brands and for putting Uganda at heart,” said Amos Wekesa, the Great Lake Safaris managing director.

Centenary Bank topped the banking category, followed by Diamond Trust Bank. Mukwano Group of Companies won the agribusiness and manufacturing category, followed by Nice House of Plastics and Kakira Sugar.

Britania Allied Industries scooped juice manufacturing award. Mbabazi said economic independence is paramount for Uganda’s development. “Branding is a key issue towards successful enterprise,” he said.

Kyambadde said if we are to achieve the levels of employment and economic growth we so badly need, we must create a powerful engine of indigenous businesses.

Gideon Badaggawa, the PSFU chief, said the event was one of the activities to commemorate Uganda gaining independence from the British in 1962.

He said the selection process required the population to vote for their favourite brands via mobile SMS.

By Patrick Jaramogi, The New Vision