In a move that fulfills President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s pledge to expand the Soroti Processing Fruit Factory, the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) has allocated five acres of land to the renowned factory. This development aims to fuel the factory’s growth and enable it to process all the fruits in the Teso region.
Julius Okomu, the Chief Executive Officer of the Soroti Processing Fruit Factory, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the government’s commitment to expanding the facility, particularly after President Museveni’s recent announcement reiterating his support. The president had made a promise to expand the factory nearly two years ago, and his reaffirmation brings hope for future progress.
“We are thrilled to learn that the president has emphasized the government’s dedication to continuously expanding the factory. The funds allocated will be instrumental in constructing a state-of-the-art facility capable of producing ready-to-drink fruit juice, which will be meticulously packaged in bottles,” Okomu enthusiastically stated.
Okomu recalled that during a visit to the factory, they presented a budget of 56.9 billion Ugandan shillings to the president through the Office of the Vice President, who had pledged to support the factory’s growth. Today, with the allocation of the land, this promise has been transformed into reality.
The Soroti Processing Fruit Factory embarked on construction in April 2015, with an initial completion target of May 2016. However, several challenges had hindered progress. Nonetheless, in October 2019, the factory finally commenced production of mango juice under their exclusive brand, “Teju,” inspired by the name Teso Juice.
The factory aims to revolutionize the agricultural landscape in the Teso region by providing a reliable market for farmers’ produce. By processing locally grown fruits, the factory not only enhances their value but also creates employment opportunities for the local population.
Speaking on behalf of the Uganda Investment Authority, the Executive Director, Jolly Kaguhangire, expressed her delight in contributing to the country’s economic growth through the allocation of land to support the expansion of the Soroti Processing Fruit Factory. She also emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships to drive industrial development and create jobs.
The UIA has been actively promoting investment in Uganda, with a focus on supporting both local and international businesses. By facilitating expansion projects such as this one, they are paving the way for sustained economic development and attracting further investment opportunities.
