Uganda’s agricultural sector is set for a major transformation following the signing of an agreement between Itracom Fertilizers Uganda-SMC Ltd and the government to establish a US$180 million state-of-the-art organic fertilizer factory in Kampiringisa, Mpigi District.
The landmark project, spearheaded by Itracom Fertilizers Uganda under the leadership of Adrian Ntigacika, is backed by a directive from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and is expected to significantly enhance agricultural productivity through sustainable practices.
A Pivotal Milestone for Uganda’s Agriculture
The signing ceremony, witnessed by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, brought together key representatives from several ministries, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MOFPED), Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD), and the Ministry of Water and Environment (MOWE).
The new facility will be built on 133 acres of land provided by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MOGLSD) in Kampiringisa and is expected to be completed within 18 months. Once operational, the factory will produce 250,000 metric tons of organic fertilizer annually, primarily from cow dung and other essential minerals.
Adrian Ntigacika, the head of Itracom Fertilizers Uganda, expressed his appreciation for the government’s unwavering support and emphasized the importance of this initiative in transforming agriculture.
“I sincerely thank the Government of Uganda, particularly Rt. Hon. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, Hon. Matia Kasaija, Minister of Finance, Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama, Permanent Secretary at MAAIF, and Rtd. Col. Fred Mwesigye, the Ambassador of Uganda to Tanzania, for their unwavering support. Today’s milestone is a testament to our shared commitment to advancing agriculture in Uganda,” Ntigacika said.
Reducing Reliance on Fertilizer Imports
Uganda has long faced challenges in accessing affordable, high-quality fertilizers, leading to low agricultural productivity and heavy dependence on imported products. With the establishment of this factory, Uganda aims to significantly reduce fertilizer imports, ensuring local farmers have better access to affordable organic inputs.
The project also includes an offtake agreement, which guarantees that fertilizer produced locally will be purchased, provided it is manufactured in Uganda. This approach will secure a ready market for the factory’s output while stabilizing prices for farmers nationwide.
According to MAAIF’s Permanent Secretary Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama, the factory addresses one of the most pressing needs in Uganda’s agricultural sector.
“Our farmers need improved soil fertility, irrigation for de-risking agriculture, mechanization, quality genetics for seeds and livestock, and a mindset shift through awareness creation, this factory directly addresses the non-negotiable need for quality fertilizer inputs to boost agricultural productivity,” he noted.
Regional Competitiveness and Economic Impact
Itracom Fertilizers has successfully operated similar factories in Burundi and Tanzania, with production capacities of 350,000 metric tons and 1 million metric tons respectively. Uganda’s facility positions the country as a strong competitor in the regional fertilizer market and aligns with the broader vision of becoming a key agricultural hub in East Africa.
The US$180 million investment is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, stimulate local supply chains, and open new opportunities for farmers, particularly in the cattle corridor, where farmers will supply cow dung for fertilizer production.
MAAIF has been tasked with preparing a cabinet paper to formalize the project and organize farmers into structured groups for participation. Additionally, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development will provide the necessary amenities to support the plant’s operations, ensuring the facility operates at optimal capacity.
Government Commends Partnership
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja praised President Museveni for his visionary leadership and emphasized the project’s significance in driving Uganda’s agricultural modernization agenda.
“This partnership reflects a mutual interest in fostering sustainable agricultural growth, ensuring food security, and creating economic opportunities for Ugandan farmers,” Hon. Nabbanja said.
“The Itracom Fertilizer factory is poised to become a cornerstone of Uganda’s agricultural transformation, delivering high-quality organic fertilizer to enhance soil fertility and support farmers nationwide, she added.
The Prime Minister also commended the collaboration between the Ugandan and Burundian governments, alongside the coordinated efforts of various ministries and agencies that have worked tirelessly to ensure the successful rollout of the project.
A Boost for Uganda’s Agricultural Future
With agriculture employing the majority of Uganda’s workforce and contributing significantly to GDP, the establishment of the Itracom Fertilizer factory represents a strategic investment in the nation’s economic future.
By prioritizing homegrown solutions and reducing dependence on imports, Uganda is positioning itself for sustainable agricultural growth, enhanced food security, and regional competitiveness.
Once completed, the Kampiringisa facility will not only transform farming practices but also empower smallholder farmers, improve yields, and strengthen Uganda’s role in East Africa’s agricultural value chain.
