President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commissioned the Kiira Vehicle Plant in Jinja, describing it as a milestone in Uganda’s industrial transformation and a key driver of economic growth.
Speaking at the launch, Museveni said Uganda’s economy is currently growing at 7% and projected to surpass 10% once oil production begins. He emphasized that the country has a clear vision for transformation built on value addition and industrialization.
“We also plan to process our rich iron ore reserves into high-quality steel, which will significantly reduce our dependence on steel imports that currently cost over $900 million annually,” Museveni noted. He said Uganda possesses some of the best iron ore deposits in the world, found in Kabale and Butogota.
The President also pointed to the growing demand for electric vehicles, stressing Uganda’s advantage in having substantial lithium deposits in Ntungamo and other regions. He said this resource base positions the country to compete in future industries.
Museveni congratulated Makerere University, Kiira Motors, and the National Enterprise Corporation for spearheading the project. “Their achievements prove that success is possible, breaking down the barriers of doubt and demonstrating that we can indeed realise our potential,” he said.
The Kiira Vehicle Plant is expected to boost local vehicle production, cut import costs, and create new opportunities for Ugandan engineers and innovators.
