UGANDA, Karamoja | Real Muloodi News | The Karamoja Sub-region, local communities have generously donated land spanning 10,122 acres to facilitate the establishment of a new cement factory in Moroto District.
The land grant, facilitated by the Naita A-Tepeth Communal Land Association (CLA), signifies a collaborative effort between the community and foreign investors, heralding prospects for economic advancement and employment opportunities within the region.
Tororo Cement Limited, the investor in question, is slated to construct the new factory, which is anticipated to generate approximately 4,000 jobs for residents.
Moreover, the initiative includes provisions for training interested individuals in the requisite skills for employment within the factory.
The allocated land, situated in Tapac Sub-county, was formally bestowed upon Tororo Cement following two engagement meetings brokered by the government on March 6 and March 7 of this year in Moroto District. This strategic move enables Tororo Cement to lay the groundwork for a clinker factory and secure space for limestone mining, a vital component in cement production.
Notably, Naita-A-Tepeth CLA has agreed to lease 10,000 acres of land to Tororo Cement for mining operations, in addition to allocating 122 acres on a freehold basis for the construction of the factory infrastructure.
Minister of Lands Judith Nabakooba, presiding over the pivotal meetings, emphasised the transformative potential of the factory, citing its capacity to engender job creation and extend social services to the region.
“Once the processes are complete and Tororo Cement establishes the factory, many things are going to change,” she affirmed during a community engagement in Katikekile village.
Nabakooba called upon local leaders and communities to collaborate with the government to facilitate positive change in Karamoja, underscoring the long-term developmental benefits associated with the investment.
Similarly, Peter Lokeris, the Minister of State for Mineral Development, highlighted Tororo Cement’s commitment to providing essential amenities such as water, schools, and healthcare facilities, underscoring the company’s multifaceted approach to community development.
He urged local communities to embrace the initiative, emphasising the potential for collective progress and improved living standards.
Minister of Karamoja Affairs Mary Goretti Kitutu echoed sentiments of cooperation and urged stakeholders to support the developmental agenda, emphasising the transformative impact of the cement factory on the socio-economic landscape of Moroto and its environs.
Agnes Nandutu, the State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, commended the government’s efforts to attract investors to the region, citing the anticipated revenue influx and broader economic benefits that the factory would bring to both Karamoja and the nation at large.
Eliya Lomiat, Chairperson of Naita-A-Tepeth CLA, underscored the community’s willingness to facilitate the establishment of the factory, emphasising the importance of mutually beneficial agreements between stakeholders.
He emphasised the need for Tororo Cement to compensate residents for surface rights and address environmental concerns stemming from previous operations.
Stellah Atyang, the Woman Member of Parliament for Moroto District, advocated for educational opportunities for local youth, urging the investor to consider offering scholarships to enhance skill development and facilitate employment within the factory.
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