Ugandan businesses can exploit opportunities beyond local borders if they utilise opportunities in Information and Communication Technology has to offer, the Minister of ICT, Dr Ham Mulira, has said.

Mulira was speaking at the launch of Look Uganda, an online marketing website at Kampala City Council grounds.

"ICT offers business opportunities that supersede local boundaries," said Mulira.

Local businesses are increasingly taking on online marketing, in an effort to market their products across the globe.

In June Nichoserve launched software, which would enable local companies to set up online shops. Now with a new website to promote local products over the Internet, Ugandan businesses are joining the online marketing bandwagon.

"It is a medium for making our products known to a wider clientele," said Mr Jimmy Segirinya, the Managing Director of Look Uganda Guide. Segirinya said the website (www.look.co.ug) was launched to promote Ugandan products ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting Summit.

Some of featured products include property, crafts, cars entertainment products, and clothing among others.

However, online marketing in Uganda is still in its rudimentary form. Companies still lack the essentials for online trade.

"Most companies may not have the capacity to supply to online buyers in the United States or Europe," said Gregory Sebirumbi, a local ICT expert.

However according to Segirinya awareness is better. "Ugandans abroad can for example buy real estates without being duped because all prices will be displayed on the website," said Segirinya.

(SOURCE: The Monitor)