In a move set to bolster Uganda’s dairy sector, President Yoweri Museveni inaugurated the Royal Milk Enterprises Factory in Kampala, emphasizing the importance of local production for economic growth and food security.
The President’s visit, attended by government officials and dairy industry stakeholders, signals strong support for value addition and youth engagement in agriculture. The newly launched factory, collecting 200,000 litres of milk daily from across Uganda, embodies the nation’s ambition to transition from a primarily agricultural economy to one that embraces value-added processing.
President Museveni praised the company’s founders, the Kigoye family, for embracing commercial farming and investing in processing capabilities, stating, “Shifting focus from liquid milk to processed products for export is crucial. This is something you must take seriously.”
From Humble Beginnings to Export Ambitions
Royal Milk Enterprises, established in 1995 by Hajji Buruhan Kigoye, has steadily grown from its humble origins in Masindi District. The company’s commitment to expansion and modernization is evident in the new factory, which is poised to significantly enhance production capacity.
President Museveni acknowledged Uganda’s impressive milk production of 5 billion litres annually, emphasizing the vast potential for meeting international demand. He highlighted the economic advantages of processing liquid milk into powdered milk, making it lighter and less expensive for export.
Government Support and Private Sector Innovation
The President pledged government funding to support the company’s acquisition of an Ultra Heat Treatment (UHT) plant, a move that would double production capacity and create more jobs. This commitment underscores the government’s dedication to fostering growth in the dairy industry.
Mr Saleh Kigoye, Executive Director of Royal Milk Enterprises, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector. He highlighted the company’s role in bridging the gap between government initiatives, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), and practical application in the dairy sector.
The PDM, a government program providing loans to small-scale farmers, has played a significant role in boosting milk production.
A Model for Youth Engagement and Economic Transformation
The event also saw praise for the company’s role in empowering young entrepreneurs. H.E. Jan Sadek, the Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to Uganda, commended Royal Milk Enterprises for embodying President Museveni’s vision for industrial transformation.
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He highlighted the company’s leadership, stating, “Royal Milk is not just about milk; it’s about youths. The company is led by a dynamic team of young entrepreneurs who are creating jobs, driving innovation, and showing the world that Ugandan youth can achieve anything with the right vision.”
Summary:
The launch of the Royal Milk Enterprises Factory marks a significant step towards strengthening Uganda’s dairy industry. By championing local production, value addition, and youth engagement, President Museveni’s vision for a more prosperous and self-sufficient Uganda is being realized.
