The local community and leaders in Namayingo district have got cause to smile following the government’s approval of the establishment of CN Sugar Factory, the first factory in their district.
The locals are optimistic that the establishment of CN Sugar Factory is going to boost the employment opportunities in their locality in a number of ways.
Ronald Sanya, the Namayingo district chairperson said that a big population was rendered jobless as a result of the restrictive measures imposed on Lake Victoria, which was previously a primary source of livelihood for them.
“I am however thankful that right at the inception of CN Sugar Factory, a number of our people have already started earning from it. These include those working in the sugar plantations, construction sites, among others,” Sanya said.
This was during the ground breaking ceremony held at Kifuyo cell in Namayingo Town Council. The function was graced by the third Deputy Prime Minister, Hajjat Lukia Isanga Nakadama who stood in for the Vice President, Major Jessica Alupo.
Vice President Alupo encouraged CN Sugar to explore other opportunities in Namayingo, citing the district’s rich mineral resources.
Nakadama affirmed the government’s commitment to ensure that CN Sugar Factory receives the necessary operational license from the Ministry of Trade and Cooperatives.
“Last year the Minister of Trade, industry and Cooperatives gave CN Sugar Factory a certificate of no objection, we shall ensure all the paperwork is done so that the factory can get its license,” Nakadama said
Spearheaded by the Managing Director Nimit Patel, CN Sugar factory has already secured over 2,000 acres of land for sugarcane cultivation, fulfilling a key policy requirement.
Patel expressed optimism about the project, highlighting that the factory’s establishment would not only boost sugar production but also contribute significantly to the local economy.
“We have bought close to 2500 acres of land in Namayingo and the neighbouring districts, where we have planted sugarcane on 1500 acres, more than the 1000 required by law,” Nimit said.
Margaret Makhoha, the district Woman MP appealed to the government and investors to consider setting up more factories in Namayingo to further enhance the district’s economic prospects.
“We have other resources like sand which can make good glasses so we need more factories to take up such,” Makhoha said.
The leadership of the Association of Sugarcane Farmers of Uganda also weighed in, urging CN Sugar Factory to collaborate with local out growers to ensure mutual benefits.
The farmers’ association emphasized the importance of cooperation between investors and local farmers to promote sustainable agricultural practices and ensure that the benefits of the factory’s operations are felt across the community.
The new sugar factory is expected to be a game-changer for Namayingo, providing a fresh economic avenue for the district and contributing to Uganda’s overall sugar industry.
As construction begins, both the government and local stakeholders will be closely monitoring the project’s progress and its impact on the region.