President Musevenihaving a one on one with the Tembo Steel Chairman, Sanjay Awasthi
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I The new Tembo Steels Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) plant, unveiled by President Yoweri Museveni over the weekend is a sign that Uganda will soon become self-reliant in steel, a major ingredient in the construction industry.
The new facility, located in Kasolo Village, Bulamagi Sub-County, Iganga District, marks a major milestone in Uganda’s industrialization journey. It has also enabled Tembo Steels reaffirm its position as a key player in the country’s steel industry.
During the unveiling, President Museveni commended the Chairman of Tembo Industries for the transformative impact the company has had on Uganda’s economy.
“The Government is committed to ensuring affordable electricity for manufacturers, targeting a rate of 5 US cents per unit. This will boost industrial productivity and competitiveness. Facilities like this will help us realize that target,” he said.
Manish Kalla, the Tembo Steel General Manager (L) look on as President Museveni and the Tembo chairman chat
He emphasized the importance of locally integrated industries, stating that such initiatives save the country from the “hemorrhage of resources.”
“Uganda is rich in iron ore reserves, particularly in Kabale. This is a vital resource for the steel industry, which can help us on our journey to industrialization,” she said.
The unveiling of the new plant by the president as Rukia Nakadama, the Third Deputy Prime Minister and the Tembo chairman Sanjay Awasthi look on
Lukia Nakadama, the Third Deputy Prime Minister, expressed gratitude to President Museveni for prioritizing development in the Busoga sub-region. She highlighted the new plant as a beacon of hope for econo
mic growth in the area.
Manish Kara, the Tembo Steels General Manager hailed the launch of the second plant as a significant achievement.
“This milestone represents our unwavering commitment to growing Uganda’s economy. With the addition of this plant, we anticipate a substantial boost to the country’s industrial output,” he said.
President Museveni is welcomed by several dignitaries
Established in 2004, Tembo Steels has grown into a major manufacturing hub, producing steel, oxygen cylinders, and nitrogen. The company sources its raw materials locally, significantly contributing to Uganda’s economy and creating over one million jobs for Ugandans.
The event was attended by a number of high-profile figures, including government ministers, members of parliament, religious leaders, investors, and local officials.