Website vs. Social Media: Which Is Better for Your Ugandan Business?

Picture this: You're in the middle of Owino Market, shouting over the noise, trying to get customers to notice your stall. That’s what doing business on social media can feel like—loud, competitive, and unpredictable. Now imagine owning your own shop, painted in your favorite colors, with your name on the door and full control of who walks in. That’s what a website offers.

Whether you’re running a boutique in Kampala, a farm in Lira, or a tour company in Kasese, the big question still stands: Should you focus on a website or social media? Let’s unpack both so you can decide what fits your goals.

Why Social Media Is a Powerful Start

Let’s be real—social media is where most Ugandans hang out. With affordable data bundles and smartphones everywhere, platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok have become the go-to spaces for business discovery.

You’ve probably seen it: someone starts posting chapati videos or secondhand clothes, and suddenly they’re taking orders every day.

Why it works:

  • It’s fast: Create an account and you’re live.
  • It’s engaging: Customers can comment, DM you, or share your posts.
  • It’s free (mostly): You don’t need to pay anyone to get started.
  • It’s visual: Perfect for bakers, fashionistas, makeup artists—you name it.

Example: Ever heard of Cakes by Mirembe? She started with just an Instagram page. Her photos were fire, her replies were fast, and soon enough, orders started flowing in. That’s the magic of social media—when used right.

The Problem with Only Using Social Media

Now, here’s the part most people ignore: you don’t own your social media account.

One day, Meta could block you. Or the algorithm changes and suddenly, your posts get 90% fewer views. Or worse, your page gets hacked.

  • You’re at their mercy: If Facebook shuts you down, your business vanishes.
  • Branding is limited: Your page looks like every other page.
  • Hard to scale: Want to accept online payments or bookings? Tough luck.
  • Zero SEO benefits: People googling “best safari guide in Uganda” won’t find your Facebook page.

It’s like renting a kiosk—you can sell, yes, but you’re always vulnerable.

Why Having a Website Changes Everything

A website is your digital home. It’s the place you invite serious customers to come, explore, and trust you.

Think of it like this: social media is the party; your website is the office. People may meet you at the party, but they’ll want to do business in the office.

Why a website wins:

  • You’re in control: No random bans, no limits.
  • Looks more professional: A proper .ug or .com domain builds instant trust.
  • Google visibility: When someone searches, your business pops up.
  • More features: Online shop? Booking system? Customer reviews? Done.
  • Own your data: Your customer list is yours—not hidden behind Meta’s walls.

Example: A tour company in Fort Portal launched a simple website. Within 3 months, tourists from Europe were emailing them after finding their site through Google. That’s visibility you don’t get from just a Facebook page.

What About Cost?

A lot of people think websites are expensive or hard to build. But in Uganda today, you can get a simple website for as little as UGX 300,000–500,000. That’s about the price of a new smartphone. And the return on investment? Massive.

There are even developers who can build one in Luganda or Runyankole, optimized for local customers.

So, Which Should You Choose?

Honestly? Both.

Use social media to attract attention. Use your website to convert that attention into real business.

Social media brings the crowd. Your website keeps them.

Final Word: Think Long-Term

Don’t build your entire business on rented land. Facebook and Instagram are great—but they’re not yours.

Having a website doesn’t mean you need something fancy. Even a one-page site with your bio, services, contacts, and links to your socials is a game-changer.

Start simple. Be found. Build trust. Grow.

You’ve worked hard to build your business—now give it a proper home online.

If you’re not sure where to begin, you can cantact us for a professional website at the best market price