The Nilezilla Mango Factory, located in Yumbe, is now up and running
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Yumbe residents are upbeat following the launch of the Nilezilla Mango Factory, which has created over 150 direct and indirect jobs.
Developed as a joint venture between Food and Nutrition Solutions Ltd (FONUS), Uganda Development Corporation, and the Aringa Fruit Farmers’ Cooperative Society Limited (AFFCSL), the factory is a critical step toward transforming the West Nile region’s agricultural output.
Dr Ruth Aisha Biyinzika Kasolo, Nilezilla’s Board Chair, said that by partnering with local farmers through AFFCSL, this firm ensures a reliable market for mangoes during the season and farmers are able to earn income from their products.
Dr Ruth Aisha Biyinzika Kasolo
She said they have plans to expand the workforce as production scales.
“Local farmers stand to gain significantly, as Nilezilla will inject more than sh1.5b annually into the region through mango purchases alone.”
Prof. William Kyamuhangire, Nilezilla’s Chief Executive Officer, said the company is committed to building a value chain that drives economic growth and uplifts the communities not only in Yumbe but the entire West Nile region.
He said that April 23, 2025, marked a pivotal moment for Uganda’s agricultural landscape as Nilezilla Ltd officially switched on its cutting-edge mango processing factory in Lodonga, Yumbe district.
“This isn’t just a new facility but a game-changer. It signals the dawn of a new era for local mango farmers. It positions Uganda as a regional powerhouse in high-quality mango pulp production,” he said in a recent interview.
Support to local economy
He added that with the roar of machines and the active purchase of local mangoes, Nilezilla is set to dramatically reduce post-harvest losses and unlock countless opportunities for the region.
“With a processing capacity of five metric tons of mangoes per hour, the plant is projected to produce 2,500 metric tons of mango pulp annually which will reduce Uganda’s reliance on imported pulp, saving an estimated $2.5m yearly in foreign exchange,” he said.
The project traces its roots to FONUS’ 2013 research, which identified the local Kasingiri mango variety as ideal for premium pulp production.
The initiative gained momentum after it was presented to President Museveni who directed the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and the then National Agricultural Advisory Services to provide financial and logistical support.
Prof. William Kyamuhangire
“We never looked back after that, but proceeded to implement our vision, which is about fostering innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment within Uganda’s agricultural landscape,” he said.
Dr Kasolo extended their gratitude to President Museveni, their partners and shareholders who include Uganda Development Corporation, Food and Nutrition Solutions Ltd, and Aringa Fruit Farmers’ Cooperative Society Limited.
She said they anticipate huge transformative impact this factory will have on Uganda’s agro-industry.
The $8m facility, which employs advanced processing technology (aseptic processing and packaging) to extend the shelf life of mangoes without the use of chemical preservatives or refrigeration, and emphasises eco-friendly operations through waste reduction and energy efficiency.
Agro-industrialisation
As Uganda pushes toward agro-industrialisation under its Vision 2040 framework, Nilezilla’s inaugural commercial production signals a strategic shift toward science and technology driven value addition and import substitution.
“Looking ahead, the company aims to diversify its product line with retail-ready mango pulp packs, juice nectars’ This is a move poised to tap into global markets for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, and even mango seed oil.
With its focus on sustainability and community partnership, the factory is set to bolster Uganda’s position in East Africa’s competitive agro-processing sector, creating a golden opportunity for the locals.
