KAMPALA-The government of Uganda through the Ministry of Finance has promised to continue supporting investors especially in the manufacturing sector to expand their businesses.
While touring the new production line at Roofings, Namanve plant, Hon Matia Kasaija the Cabinet Minister for finance and Hon. Evelyn Anite the State Minister for Finance in charge of Investments and Privatization were impressed by Dr. Sikander Lalani’s commitment to prioritize value addition as well as creating employment for Ugandans.
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“We thank Mzee Lalani for spending all his energy and money while establishing this plant which has provided employment to 1700 people, just imagine if this country has more 100 Lalalanis, that means more 17000 jobs.” Remarked Kasaija
The Minister promised that challenges regarding to the road network around the plant, will be resolved as soon as possible with serious engagements commencing next week.
Hon. Evelyn Anite revealed that during their visit, they came with a team from Ministry of Energy to conduct the necessary inspections regarding the company’s power consumption so as to decide on the way forward.
“The President directed that industrialists should be given electricity at five cent, we came here to ensure that it is achieved. Am happy that the representative of the Ministry of Energy has done the necessary assessment. Roofings is getting the five cents during off peak hours midnight to 6 am and our aim is ensure that they pay the same rate all time round.”
The Minister also commended Roofings for prioritizing value addition on Ugandan products when they promised to use more of the locally mined Iron in their manufacturing process.
“As far as the road construction is concerned, we had to check on how far we came to check on how far the project has reached and am glad to inform you that Lagan dot the contractors handling the project has explained to us that they are not very far from finishing. The main effect that is delaying this part near the Roofings factory is the Railway line and we are going to discuss with other concerned stakeholders to ensure that all hindrances are addressed as soon as possible.”
Anite further committed that as long as she is still the Minister in charge of Privatization, she will work tirelessly to ensure that at least in one year ahead, most of the Infrastructure in the 200 acre industrial Park (Namanve) will be at required standard.
Dr. Sikander Lalani , Chairman Roofings Group of Companies thanked the Government of Uganda for the continuous support it has rendered to the manufacturers which has given them room for expanding their production line.
“We started up here 17 years ago when the whole place was a forest full of trees and the President promised me full support. The government has been able to give us power, water and good infrastructure.” Lalalani revealed
He also pointed out that considering the quality of their products, the demand has increased not only Uganda but even in many neighboring countries like Burundi, DRC, Rwanda , Tanzania, South Sudan and Kenya.
