In a remarkable stride towards self-sufficiency and economic empowerment, Uganda is on the verge of discontinuing its expensive clinker imports, a vital raw material in cement production.
This momentous development follows the groundbreaking ceremony for a cutting-edge factory in the Karamoja region, presided over by President Museveni. This factory will not only produce cement but also clinker, marking a significant turning point for Uganda’s industrial landscape.
For years, Uganda has incurred an exorbitant cost of approximately $300 million in importing clinker for its cement manufacturing sector. However, this financial hemorrhage is poised to come to an end with the inauguration of the new cement facility in Karamoja, a project championed by President Museveni.
President Museveni emphasized the economic windfall this initiative would bring to the nation. “Uganda is on the brink of discontinuing clinker imports,” he declared, underlining the country’s growing commitment to self-reliance and reduced reliance on foreign markets.
The project’s timeline reveals that the initial phase is set to conclude by 2025, boasting an impressive production capacity of six thousand tons of clinker per day and an annual cement output of one million tons.
This ambitious endeavor not only promises to meet Uganda’s domestic cement demands but also has the potential to establish the country as a regional supplier.
Hannington Karuhanga, Director of West International Holding, expressed optimism about the project’s prospects, stating, “This venture signifies a significant milestone in Uganda’s industrial development and economic growth.”
Zhang Jimin, Chairman of West China Company, underscored the factory’s importance in fortifying Uganda’s manufacturing sector, envisioning it as a catalyst for comprehensive national economic transformation.
President Museveni, during discussions regarding the project, emphasized that the Karamoja factory would usher in meaningful inclusivity for the local Karamojong community, integrating them into the national economy and elevating their livelihoods.
Local leaders have welcomed this project with open arms, acknowledging it as a concrete manifestation of the government’s commitment to uplifting the people of Karamoja.
Francis Lorika Adome, Member of Parliament for Moroto Municipality, conveyed his support, remarking, “This initiative marks a pivotal moment in the development of our region, and we are appreciative of the government’s unwavering support.”
Norman Ochero Jimbricky, MP for Labwor County, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the positive impact of the factory on the people of Karamoja and their prospects for a more prosperous future.