In an inspiring event that marked a milestone for Uganda’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Billbrain Technologies Ltd. is proud to announce its graduation from the Industry Enhancement Centre (IEC) 2025 program. This achievement aligns with the nation’s ambitious efforts to enhance local enterprise participation and long-term competitiveness in the burgeoning oil and gas sector.
The Vision Behind IEC
The Industry Enhancement Centre (IEC Uganda), launched in February 2024, has rapidly become a vital initiative aimed at building SME capacity in Uganda’s oil and gas sector. The center focuses on developing sustainable and competitive businesses that are well-equipped to play a leading role in the sector’s supply chain.
The IEC program provides extensive training in areas such as bidding, compliance, and technical skills, ensuring that Ugandan businesses are prepared to seize opportunities in the oil and gas industry. With over 4,000 visitors and nearly 18,000 website visits to date, the IEC continues to be a powerful force in empowering SMEs to thrive.
A Milestone for Billbrain Technologies Ltd.
As one of the 305 SMEs to graduate from the program in December 2025, Billbrain Technologies Ltd. is poised to make a significant impact on the national supply chain. The company’s journey through the IEC has not only enhanced its technical competencies but also aligned its vision with the dynamic needs of the oil and gas sector. With the expertise gained through the IEC, Billbrain is now better equipped to participate in this critical sector, contributing to Uganda’s economic development and positioning itself as a future leader in its field.
In a statement about the graduates, Jimmy Mugerwa, the IEC Uganda Project Director, remarked: “To date, the IEC has publicized 323 business opportunities and has had an 86% user rating of the relevance of our content. We are proud of all 305 graduates and look forward to the collective impact they will have on the national economy.”
Mr. Jimmy Mugerwa, the IEC Uganda Project Director delivering his remarks at the graduation
The Role of Vision in Uganda’s Growth
A key theme echoed during the graduation ceremony was the importance of vision in driving sustainable growth. Prof Samuel Sejjaaka, Director of MAT ABACUS, emphasized that while technical knowledge is crucial, it is vision that ultimately determines the success of any enterprise. He stated, “Technical knowledge alone is not enough, and this is where vision becomes crucial. We must ask ourselves, ‘Where are the Ugandan builders?’ We need to build not just infrastructure, but a foundation for growth that empowers our local entrepreneurs.”
This sentiment resonated deeply with Billbrain Technologies Ltd. As a company that combines both technical expertise and a clear vision for Uganda’s future, Billbrain is now well-positioned to make a substantial contribution to the sector. The knowledge gained through IEC training enables the company to not only engage in critical projects but also innovate solutions that contribute to Uganda’s development.
Some of the dignitaries who attended the graduation
SMEs: Pillars of the Ugandan Economy
The graduates of the IEC program, including Billbrain Technologies Ltd., represent the future of Uganda’s oil and gas industry. Through programs like this, local enterprises are empowered with the skills and knowledge needed to bid successfully, comply with regulations, and participate in large-scale projects. This, in turn, strengthens the national supply chain and boosts economic growth.
Ernest Rubondo, Executive Director of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, echoed the importance of building local enterprise competencies. “The oil and gas sector offers us an opportunity to enhance our competitiveness as a country. By training and empowering our SMEs, we ensure that they play an integral role in the growth of Uganda’s economy,” he said.
Ernest Rubondo, Executive Director of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda delivering his remarks.
The success of the IEC program is reflected not only in the graduation of 305 SMEs but also in the tangible results these businesses are now able to achieve in the oil and gas industry. With technical and compliance training under their belts, these businesses are now poised to take on major contracts, grow their operations, and create jobs for the Ugandan people.
A Bright Future for Billbrain Technologies Ltd.
Billbrain Technologies Ltd. is a prime example of how SMEs in Uganda can leverage the IEC program to boost their competitiveness and align with national goals. With its graduation, the company now stands at the forefront of the oil and gas sector, ready to tackle new challenges and seize opportunities.
As the company moves forward, it remains committed to its mission of driving innovation and contributing to the sustainable growth of Uganda’s oil and gas industry. Billbrain’s participation in the IEC program has provided invaluable insights and tools, strengthening its ability to compete in the ever-evolving market.
Eng. Irene Batebe, The Permanent Secretary – Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development delivering her remarks at the event.
Looking Ahead: Empowering Uganda’s SME Sector
As the country’s economy continues to grow, programs like the IEC will be essential in ensuring that SMEs are equipped to drive sustainable development. By providing vital training, building capacity, and enhancing technical skills, the IEC is shaping a brighter future for Uganda’s oil and gas sector and its local businesses.
Billbrain Technologies Ltd., along with its fellow graduates, is now a vital part of this future. With a blend of technical know-how and visionary leadership, the company is ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow and contribute to the growth of Uganda’s oil and gas industry.
The journey doesn’t end here. As Billbrain Technologies Ltd. looks to the future, it remains steadfast in its commitment to innovation, growth, and development—values that align perfectly with the spirit of the IEC.
Some of the participants who attended the event