By Eddie Mugulusi
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Discover why political connections and influence matter for small businesses in Uganda. Learn from real-life experiences on how relationships can protect your business and fuel growth.
The Harsh Truth About Running a Small Business
Let me be honest: running a small business in Uganda isn’t a straight line. Yes, talent, hard work, and smart decisionsare critical. They’ll get you somewhere—but often, that’s not enough.
Business isn’t always fair. Ignore this, and you may spend years hustling only to watch your “sure thing” collapse—simply because someone else had an invisible advantage: connections and influence.
I learned this lesson the hard way.
The Nyege Nyege Opportunity
In 2023, the famous Nyege Nyege Festival in Jinja seemed like a goldmine. My idea was simple: secure parking. Thousands of festival-goers needed it, and I knew people would pay.
Right next to the venue—the golf course grounds by the Nile—was Victoria Nile Primary School, my old school. Two huge playing fields, less than a three-minute walk from the festival. Perfect!
All I needed was permission. Luckily, the father of my best man was on the school board. I pitched the idea, and after a few calls and a formal letter, the fields were mine—no payment required.
I felt ready. I felt smart. This was going to work.
When Connections Trump Hard Work
Day one was decent. Day two? Disaster.
We arrived to set up at 1 pm, only to find the access road blocked by a military truck. Cars were being diverted elsewhere. Customers gone. Profits gone.
Another operator, someone with stronger political connections, had pulled strings to shut us down. My brilliant plan meant nothing against raw influence.
That’s when I realized: in business, playing small in an unfair world can kill you.
The Lesson: Political Muscle Matters
Here’s the truth: knowing your craft, your numbers, or even having the best business plan will only take you so far. In Uganda’s business environment, relationships and political influence can determine whether you succeed or fail.
- Know your LC1 chairperson.
- Know your local police OC.
- Know your area MP.
Not to bribe or cheat—but so they know you and your business exist. That way, when someone tries to sabotage you, you have allies who understand the impact on your livelihood.
Political Muscle: Your Small Business Safety Net
Call it influence. Call it political muscle. Whatever you call it, it’s real. It’s not magic, but it’s a form of insurance.
- One day, it might save you from bureaucratic headaches.
- Another day, it might save your profits from being hijacked.
- And every day, it reduces friction as you build your brand.
Start small: say hello, build trust, and make sure your community leaders know your business matters.
The business world isn’t fair. But with the right connections, you can level the playing field and give your small business a fighting chance.
Because out here? You either eat… or get eaten.
Unlock your true potential 