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Uganda’s Finance Minister, Hon. Matia Kasaija, has reappointed Dickson Mushabe, the Founder and CEO of Hostalite, to the Makerere Innovation and Incubation Center (MIIC) board.
This appointment recognizes Dickson’s outstanding contributions to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs in Uganda. His reappointment underscores the confidence the government and his peers placed in him.
In March 2023, MIIC was officially registered as a company limited by guarantee, with the Ministry of Finance and Makerere University as guarantors. The centre plays a pivotal role in nurturing innovation, supporting startups, and creating a thriving ecosystem for entrepreneurs in Uganda.
In the official letter of appointment, Finance Minister Hon. Matia Kasaija stated:
“By virtue of the powers conferred upon me by Section 31 of Table C Part 11 of the Articles and Memorandum of Association, I am pleased to appoint you as a member of the MIIC Board for a period of four (4) years with effect from 1st July 2024, or such shorter period as may be affected by government policy on the rationalisation of agencies.”
Dickson will serve alongside other newly appointed board members, including:
- Mr. Ronald Osekeny, Principal Assistant Secretary, Finance and Administration, Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development
- Ms. Dianah Nannono, Head of Private Sector Development Unit, Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development
- Mr. Joseph Enyimu, Commissioner, Economic Development, Policy & Research Department, Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development
- Prof. Tonny Oyana, Principal, College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University
A Legacy of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Dickson Mushabe is a seasoned entrepreneur, innovator, and mentor with a long-standing commitment to Uganda’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. As the CEO of Hostalite, one of East Africa’s leading web hosting, design, and software development companies, he has played a critical role in empowering businesses to harness technology for growth.
He is also the founder of several impactful initiatives, including:
- Cinnamon Clubs: A fintech platform that automates financial records for savings groups.
- Dolphin Fund: A digital crowdfunding platform designed to facilitate fundraising initiatives.
- Bamboo CMS: An all-in-one client management and billing system for small businesses.
In addition to his entrepreneurial achievements, Dickson is an accomplished author of several business books, including:
- “I Am Not Sorry for My Mistakes” (a bestselling business book)
- “31 Keys to Restart Your Business”
- “Dear StartUP” (a pocket guide for aspiring entrepreneurs)
Dickson is a certified professional in various fields, holding credentials from the International Trade Centre SME Trade Academy, University of Minnesota, and Digital Marketing Institute, Dublin. He has served as a former Director on the Board of the ICT Association of Uganda (ICTAU) and as a guest lecturer at the Uganda Management Institute (UMI). His global influence includes being a mentor and judge for the Big Ideas Contest at the University of California, Berkeley, and a member of the Advisory Council for the Global Shapers, an initiative of the World Economic Forum.
Upon receiving the reappointment, Dickson Mushabe expressed his gratitude and commitment:
“Receiving this appointment to serve is definitely a humbling experience, especially being the only member from the old board to be reappointed. It’s a sign of confidence that the Minister exhibits in me, and this being a results-oriented board, I am deeply humbled. I would like to thank the Hon. Minister of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, Hon. Matia Kasaija, for once again trusting me with this very sensitive role. So much of my professional life has been committed to seeing entrepreneurs grow and fulfil the objectives of their startups and medium-sized businesses. For me, this is an opportunity to continue contributing to the development of this sector of our country.”
Dickson’s reappointment brings a unique private-sector perspective to the MIIC Board, enhancing its ability to align innovation with market realities and foster entrepreneurial success in Uganda.
The Road Ahead for MIIC
With the reconstituted board, MIIC is well-positioned to continue promoting innovation, supporting startups, and nurturing entrepreneurial talent. The inclusion of experienced professionals like Dickson Mushabe ensures that the center remains a cornerstone of Uganda’s economic transformation.
Under the guidance of its new board, MIIC promises significant progress over the next four years. The focus will be on empowering innovators and driving sustainable development across the nation.