President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reiterated the critical role of industrialization in Uganda’s development trajectory, emphasizing its significance in fostering economic growth and urbanization. During a visit to the Horyal Investment Holding Company in Gem Pacilo village, Atiak sub-county, Amuru district, owned by businesswoman Dr Amina Hersi Moghe, President Museveni addressed concerns over land use, particularly in relation to the Atiak sugar factory.
Expressing his disappointment with those opposing the land use for the Atiak sugar factory, President Museveni labeled them as opportunists aiming to sow division among the people of Acholi. He emphasized the importance of constructive development initiatives like the sugar factory in driving growth and prosperity across the Acholi region and beyond.
In response to criticisms and concerns raised by various groups, including those advocating for land preservation, President Museveni asserted the necessity of balancing development with conservation efforts. He pledged to counter any distortions created by opposing factions, reaffirming his commitment to promoting sustainable development practices in Uganda.
President Museveni commended Dr Amina Moghe for her investment in the sugar factory project and urged leaders, including Members of Parliament, to support such ventures to achieve their intended goals. He highlighted the strategic vision behind the sugar factory, aiming to reduce import dependency and stimulate economic growth through local production and exportation.
During his address, President Museveni underscored the significance of adopting farming practices aligned with market demand, advocating for the four-acre model of farming over crops like sugarcane and cotton. He emphasized the need for agricultural diversification to capitalize on products with high demand both domestically and internationally.
Trade Minister Francis Mwebesa echoed President Museveni’s commitment to industrialization as a catalyst for wealth creation, employment generation, and community transformation. He called upon stakeholders to support initiatives like the Atiak sugar factory to realize their full potential in driving Uganda’s industrial growth.
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, emphasized the project’s alignment with President Museveni’s vision for industrializing Northern Uganda, as outlined in the Juba Peace Agreement. He highlighted the importance of leveraging the region’s land resources to catalyze economic development and create employment opportunities for local communities.
Dr Amina Moghe expressed gratitude to the Ugandan government for its support and reaffirmed her company’s commitment to collaborating with local farmers to create market opportunities for their produce. She emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable development and economic prosperity in Uganda.
