President Museveni, alongside former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, has commissioned phase one of a 6,000-tonne cement clinker production line by Yaobai Cement.
The facility is located in Nanduget, Moroto District.
President Museveni commended Hailemariam for his role in guiding West China Cement to invest in Uganda.
He also expressed appreciation to the company’s board chairman, Zang Jiewen, for supporting Uganda’s efforts to reduce reliance on imported clinker.
“I am very glad that Mr. Zang, with the guidance of Hailemariam, has saved us from importing clinker,” Museveni said, noting that clinker constitutes about 85% of cement production and had previously been sourced from abroad.
The President further thanked the government of China for encouraging its citizens to invest in Africa, highlighting ongoing investments in infrastructure and manufacturing.
He pledged continued government support to ensure a favorable tax regime for the factory, emphasizing the importance of aligning investments with national development policies.
Reflecting on regional progress, Museveni noted that Karamoja—once among Uganda’s least developed regions—is now emerging as an industrial hub due to its abundant natural resources.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, including key roads connecting Moroto, Kotido, and surrounding areas.
Hailemariam, now serving as Africa Regional Ambassador for West China Cement, emphasized the mutual benefits of China–Africa investment, noting its potential to drive development and real economic transformation.
Vice President Jessica Alupo commended the President for fostering a stable and attractive investment climate that continues to draw investors into the country.
Minister of Energy and Mineral Development Ruth Nankabirwa praised the transformation of Karamoja from a conflict-prone region into a center of industrial growth.
She noted that with ongoing infrastructure development, Uganda is on track to achieve its economic targets.
The local partner, Ambrose Byoona, said the project was inspired by President Museveni’s vision to establish a clinker factory in Karamoja.
Moroto District LCV Chairman Anjello Pulkol noted that the factory has created employment opportunities and improved livelihoods in the region. He credited the restoration of peace in Karamoja for enabling such investments.
