Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC), Uganda’s government-owned automotive company, has formally requested an additional $143 million from President Yoweri Museveni to fund the next phase of its vehicle manufacturing plant in Jinja.
The funding request was delivered on Friday by Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, acting on behalf of Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Dr. Monica Musenero, during the plant’s official commissioning ceremony.
“While touring the facility, my colleague in charge of Science, Technology and Innovation asked me to tell Your Excellency that the plant requires another $143 million for expansion. I believe you now owe these people at Kiira Motors,” Minister Kasaija told President Museveni.
Museveni Pledges Full Support for Expansion
President Museveni immediately pledged his backing, highlighting the strategic importance of the investment for Uganda’s industrial and innovation agenda.
“The USD 143 million you have asked for, I will provide it. With this, the plant will be able to manufacture up to 10,000 vehicles annually,” Museveni said, promising a dramatic increase in production capacity.
From 2,500 to 10,000 Vehicles Per Year
To date, the government has injected over $120 million into the KMC project. Currently, the plant produces about 11 vehicles per day, totaling roughly 2,500 units annually. The planned expansion aims to quadruple output, meeting both domestic and regional demand.
Dr. Musenero reaffirmed the government’s commitment to innovation and economic growth based on science and technology, in line with President Museveni’s 2021 directive.
“Your Excellency, this plant is a cornerstone of your vision. More innovations will be unveiled during your next term as part of our commitment to transform the economy,” she said.
Diversifying Uganda’s Automotive Industry
KMC Executive Director Paul Isaac Musasizi shared ambitious plans to diversify production, introducing SUVs, passenger taxis, double-cabin pickups, and other vehicle models. The plant is touted as the first of its kind on the African continent, representing a major milestone in Uganda’s industrialisation journey.
President Museveni praised the dedication of Ugandan scientists and engineers who made the project possible.
“This plant is proof that Ugandans can achieve great things if they put their minds to it. I applaud the scientists who have worked tirelessly to make this possible,” he said.
A Step Toward a Self-Sustaining Automotive Industry
The commissioning of the Jinja plant marks a critical step toward Uganda’s long-term goal: building a self-sustaining automotive industry. The expansion is expected to create jobs, reduce import dependency, and position the country as a regional hub for vehicle manufacturing.
With this latest funding push, KMC is set to transform Uganda’s automotive landscape and reinforce the nation’s commitment to science, technology, and industrial innovation.
Call to Action:
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