Africa Analysis October 3, 2003 UGANDAN ARMS BAZAAR Uganda is becoming a player in the arms trade, although the government and army vehemently deny the fact. But there is now considerable evidence that the army's arms and munitions factory at Nakasongola in central Uganda, has sold arms and ammunition to private buyers. On behalf of the army, Major Shaban Bantariza this week stated categorically: OEWe don't sell arms to local or foreign companies. We produce what we consume ourselves.' This was contradicted by senior staff at the factory. They admitted that small arms and ammunition had been sold to private companies and that considerable quantities of ammunition had been shipped to neighbouring countries. The commercialised factory trades under the name of Luweero Industries and is a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Enterprises Corporation. It is understood that South African armaments manufacturer, Denel, provided some assistance in the establishment of the factory, which also produces armoured personnel carriers for the army. An apparent speciality at Nakasongola is the refurbishing of small arms, especially the ubiquitous Kalashnikov, AK-47. Inquiries at the factory indicate that a refurbished AK-47 costs $ 150 and can be bought by an individual, provided police clearance is obtained. The army's denials about the sales have also been contradicted in a commercial court case currently underway here. Two security companies are involved in a dispute over 32 semi-automatic rifles bought from the Luweero Industries factory at Nakasongola.