The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) hosted the official launch of the Local Marine Cargo & Goods in Transit Insurance Portal, a landmark development aimed at enhancing trade facilitation and strengthening Uganda’s insurance sector. This innovative platform is designed to simplify marine cargo insurance, streamline customs processes, and foster local insurance industry growth. The event, held at URA’s headquarters in Nakawa, attracted prominent figures from government, insurance, and trade sectors who emphasized the importance of digital transformation in Uganda’s economy.
Joseph Ndiho, the Systems Developer, presented the technical details of the Local Marine Cargo & Goods in Transit Insurance Portal. Ndiho highlighted how this integrated platform would transform the importation process by gathering accurate data on imported goods, thus enabling insurers to tailor coverage based on specific risks. He explained that importers would need to input their Tax Identification Number (TIN) and detailed information about the goods they were importing, including product category, transport method, and other specifics. By uploading key documents like the commercial invoice, will also streamline claims management, ensuring faster resolutions in case of incidents.

Ndiho pointed out that Local Marine Cargo & Goods in Transit Insurance provides comprehensive coverage for goods from the point of purchase until arrival at their final destination. This approach not only protects the importers but also gives insurers an accurate view of the risks, allowing them to price policies appropriately. He concluded by underscoring the platform’s goal of making the insurance process seamless for importers, reducing both time and costs associated with international insurance procedures.
URA’s Customs Commissioner, Hajji Asadu Kisitu Kigozi, described the launch of the Marine Cargo & Goods in Transit insurance platform as a significant achievement after years of planning and consultation. He explained that the platform simplifies customs procedures by enabling URA to access exact insurance costs, which will lead to more accurate tax calculations. Previously, customs officials often relied on estimates of 1% of goods' value for insurance calculations under the CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) model, leading to potential discrepancies.

Kigozi also highlighted that the platform strengthens URA’s role in revenue collection and supports local insurers, thus retaining revenue within Uganda. By using the platform, importers will no longer need to rely on foreign insurers, which often led to delays and miscommunication.
Mr. Ramathan Ggoobi, Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury, commended the collaboration between URA and the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA), noting the platform’s potential to reduce costs and streamline the importation process. Ggoobi explained that empowering local insurers to provide coverage for imported goods will also lower commodity prices, reduce fraud, and support local insurers in benefiting from economies of scale. A three-month voluntary compliance period was announced, with mandatory usage set to begin in February 2025. He encouraged Ugandan importers to embrace the platform, which he asserted would ease trade complexities and foster economic self-sufficiency.

Alhaj Kaddunabbi Ibrahim Lubega, CEO of IRA, spoke about the platform’s impact on Uganda’s trade and insurance sectors. He emphasized that the Local Marine Cargo & Goods in Transit Insurance Portal would empower local insurers, helping Uganda retain premium revenue within its economy. By moving away from foreign insurance providers, he explained, Uganda would eliminate costly outflows and build resilience in local industries. Additionally, local insurers are better equipped to cater to the unique needs of Ugandan businesses, providing tailored policies that meet local demands.
Alhaj Kaddunabbi praised the platform as a regional leader within the East African Community (EAC) and COMESA regions, describing it as the product of years of consultation and cooperation. He recalled that in the year 2017/18, the government committed to supporting locally licensed insurance companies, marking the beginning of the journey that culminated in the launch of this platform. He expressed his gratitude to URA and other stakeholders for their roles in realizing this vision.

The launch of Uganda’s Local Marine Cargo & Goods in Transit Insurance Portal represents a turning point for the country’s trade and insurance industries. This new digital platform promises to reduce costs for importers, bolster local insurers, and simplify customs procedures, ultimately benefiting the national economy. Leaders and stakeholders at the launch echoed a common vision: the Local Marine Cargo & Goods in Transit Insurance Portal is not only a tool for economic empowerment but also a testament to Uganda’s commitment to self-sustaining growth and modernization. This platform is poised to propel Uganda’s trade sector forward, setting a foundation for greater resilience and prosperity in the years to come.