AFRICA: Uganda launches major ethanol, sugar & ENA projects

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has launched two major industrial projects in Luwero District, highlighting Uganda’s push for agro-industrial growth, value addition and clean energy. The projects include a large ethanol and extra-neutral alcohol (ENA) plant by PRO Industries and a modern sugar factory by Victoria Sugar Limited.

The President, accompanied by First Lady and Education Minister Janet Museveni, said the new facilities will help grow the economy, create jobs and reduce Uganda’s dependence on imported fuel. He described the projects as an important step towards building a self-reliant and industrialised country.

The PRO Industries plant, built with an investment of about US$100 million (Shs 380 billion), is located in Ndibulungi Village. It has the capacity to produce 120,000 litres of ENA and 35,000 litres of ethanol every day, making it the largest plant of its kind in East Africa. The factory works with more than 2,000 local farmers, giving them a reliable market for their crops and strengthening the agricultural value chain.

President Museveni also welcomed Uganda’s plan to start mandatory ethanol blending with fuel from January 2026. He said this policy will help cut fuel imports, lower costs, reduce pollution and promote cleaner energy.

At Victoria Sugar Limited, the President praised the company for its role in industrial growth and job creation. The Victoria Group employs over 8,000 Ugandans and supports more than 9,000 livelihoods. It also produces 15 megawatts of clean electricity, contributing to energy security in the region. The company has invested over US$150 million in Uganda.

The President said the government is working to improve workers’ welfare, review minimum wages and lower electricity, transport and water costs to support industries.

He urged Ugandans to support national development efforts, saying the new plants are key to Uganda’s long-term economic growth, industrialisation and environmental sustainability.