Museveni: Reliable Markets Are Key to Uganda's Industrial Surge

President Yoweri Museveni has underscored the critical role of guaranteed markets in propelling Uganda’s industrialization and enhancing production capacity. Speaking at the commissioning of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) Meat and Beans Processing Plant in Gomba District, Museveni highlighted that a clear demand for produce is the most effective incentive for farmers to increase supply.

The newly established factory, a collaborative effort between NEC and businessman Francis Ragwa, is set to process canned beef and beans for both domestic consumption and international export. Museveni pointed out that Uganda possesses the intrinsic capacity to furnish raw materials for such agro-processing ventures, provided that farmers are assured of buyers for their products.

He drew parallels with the successful expansion of Uganda’s coffee and dairy sectors, which he attributed to market-driven production strategies. “Once I am sure about the market, I can mobilize Ugandans to produce because the economics are correct. The stimulus for production is the market,” the President stated.

Museveni also noted the significant growth in Uganda’s cattle population, which has surged from approximately three million in 1986 to over 16 million, demonstrating the nation’s potential to sustain the meat processing industry through both commercial and smallholder farming.

The plant is expected to bolster import substitution, particularly for the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), the Uganda Police Force, and the Uganda Prisons Service, reducing reliance on imported operational rations. Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Vincent Ssempijja, welcomed the development, emphasizing its contribution to self-sufficiency and encouraging government institutions to prioritize locally manufactured goods.

Lt Gen James Mugira, Managing Director of NEC, added that the project aims to reduce government expenditure on imported food rations and enhance national food security by mitigating vulnerabilities associated with global supply chain disruptions. Francis Ragwa, MD of the processing plant, suggested positioning Uganda’s Ankole cattle as a premium international brand rather than selling beef as a mere commodity.

This initiative represents a significant step towards industrialization, value addition, and strategic self-reliance for Uganda.

Read more: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/356874/museveni-says-reliable-markets-key-to-driving-ugandas-industrial-growth