UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | In a significant move to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities, the government has approved the allocation of approximately 8,000 acres of land for the development of industrial parks across the country.
This initiative facilitated through collaboration between the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) and the Office of the Prime Minister, aims to attract investors and establish a conducive environment for industrialisation.
The ambitious plan, part of President Museveni’s directives issued in 2021 to establish 25 locations nationwide for industrial parks, targets each sub-region having at least one park.
The allocated land spans various districts, with the UIA securing portions in locations such as Omvoru in Nyaravur-Angal, Nebbi District; Rhino Camp in Rhino Camp Town Council, Madi-Okollo District; Yumbe Town Council, Yumbe District; Dokolo Town Council, Dokolo District; Kisoro District; Mayuge; Rukungiri, among others.
Chairman Board of Directors of Uganda Investment Authority, Mr. Morison Rwakakamba, confirmed these developments, noting that while some districts have already processed and handed over land titles, negotiations are ongoing in other areas.
For instance, Lira City authorities offered 300 acres, prompting ongoing discussions to secure the required 500 acres according to the government’s criteria.
President Museveni’s directives outlined specific requirements for each industrial park, emphasising a minimum land size of 500 acres and the absence of any encumbrances. The aim is to create an environment conducive to industrial growth, avoiding challenges faced by existing parks, such as biodiversity disruption and land disputes.
The government’s overarching objective is to drive Uganda’s industrialisation agenda and meet the increasing investment needs of both local and foreign investors.
In his New Year’s national address, President Museveni reiterated the priorities of industrialisation, poverty eradication, and wealth creation, emphasising sustainable economic development.
With Uganda currently hosting around 8,000 factories that have reportedly generated at least 829,600 jobs in recent years, the UIA sees the potential to further boost job creation and industrialisation.
The proposed industrial parks will prioritise industries involved in agro-processing, value addition, and the manufacture of fast-moving consumer goods, including ICT products.
Mr Rwakakamba highlighted the advantages of the designated areas, citing access to electricity, ample space, and proximity to regional markets.
The UIA aims to ensure that these parks facilitate efficient and low-cost production, addressing the perceived scarcity of land while providing unique advantages for investors.
While acknowledging challenges faced during negotiations, including demands for payments and compensation for land, Mr. Rwakakamba emphasised that the new guidelines prioritise securing land free of charge.
The government’s investment in industrial and business parks aims to create jobs, improve land accessibility for investments, and introduce new research, technology, and skills development.
The UIA currently operates eight public business and industrial parks, including Kampala (Namanve), Luzira, Bweyogerere, Jinja, Soroti, Mbale, Kasese, and Mbarara SME Park.
Additionally, the UIA has supported the establishment of three operational private industrial parks in Kapeeka, Luweero District, and Buikwe and Mukono districts.
In light of the current demographic challenges, where approximately 700,000 Ugandans enter the job market annually, the government’s industrialisation strategy will address unemployment issues and also contribute to Uganda’s revenue base by boosting exports and creating a conducive environment for investors to participate in the country’s economic transformation.
READ MORE LIKE THIS:
Government to Establish 25 Industrial Parks Around the Country
West Nile Residents Donate 2,000 Acres of Land for Industrial Parks
UIA Says Construction Set to Begin for Kisoro Industrial Park