President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commissioned a massive cement clinker production line in Moroto District to end Uganda's reliance on imported raw materials.
The West China Cement facility, operated by Yaobai Cement, sits in Nanduget. This first phase produces 6,000 tonnes of clinker daily. President Museveni presided over the ceremony alongside former Ethiopian Prime Minister H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe.
The President praised the investment for addressing a significant trade deficit. Clinker accounts for 85 percent of the ingredients used in cement production. Uganda previously sourced the majority of this material from foreign markets.
“I am very glad that Mr. Zang, with the guidance of Hailemariam, has saved us from importing clinker,” President Museveni said.
The project represents a $300 million (Shs1.1 trillion) investment. It will eventually produce two million tonnes of clinker and three million tonnes of cement annually. This output will save the country an estimated $200 million in foreign exchange every year.
President Museveni thanked the Chinese government for encouraging private investment in Africa. He pledged to maintain a favorable tax regime for the factory. He also noted that Karamoja has transitioned from a marginalized region into a rising industrial hub.
H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, acting as the Africa Regional Ambassador for West China Cement, emphasized mutual benefits. He stated that China-Africa partnerships drive real economic transformation.
Vice President H.E. Jessica Alupo credited the President for maintaining a stable investment climate. Energy Minister Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa also highlighted the shift of Karamoja from a zone of conflict to a center of growth.
The factory currently supports the local economy through job creation. Chairman Zang Jiewen confirmed the plant will employ over 3,500 people at full capacity.
“The plant represents a major milestone in strengthening Uganda’s industrial base,” Mr. Zang said.
The facility will serve more than just the local market. It aims to supply South Sudan, Western Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This trade expansion supports regional integration goals within East Africa.
The Moroto District LCV Chairman, Anjello Pulkol, noted that peace in the region made the project possible. He reported that the factory is already improving livelihoods for residents.
West China Cement plans to build a low-emission industrial ecosystem in Nanduget. The company committed to using advanced technology for environmentally sustainable production.
