Zenome Technologies Africa Ltd., an international innovator in lighting product production, recently opened its cutting-edge LED light manufacturing plant in Ntinda, Kampala. This historic event represents a crucial milestone in Uganda’s industrialization agenda, ushering in a new era of “Made in Uganda” lighting goods and accessories.
The facility’s launch was attended by the Minister of State for Energy, Mr. Okasaai Opolot, who underlined the government’s delight for the progress.
“To achieve our energy requirements, we must strive for excellence and use cutting-edge technology. Uganda is committed to switching to renewable energy and building a strong domestic manufacturing sector, ranging from solar lamps to digital metres. As a ministry, we will guide investors in manufacturing excellent goods for the Ugandan market,” he stated, emphasising the government’s commitment to promote clean and efficient energy solutions.
The technical launch of the plant signals the start of operations for the first phase of investment in the facility setup, with plans for enormous development through successive rounds of investment in manufacturing lines for a wide range of lighting goods. This strategic step is likely to support Uganda’s industrialization agenda and greatly boost the country’s GDP development.
Richard Niwenyesiga, acting director for domestic investment at the Uganda Investment Authority, emphasised the government’s efforts to create a favourable climate for investors. “The Uganda Investment Authority’s role is to recruit, facilitate and promote investment. We are happy that Zenome chose Uganda as its preferred destination. The government fosters an enabling environment by offering incentives, free investment licences, land and tax breaks. Uganda’s 45 million population, access to the East African and COMESA markets and favourable security make it an attractive investment destination. We wish Zenome well in their endeavours.”
Cecilia Menya, commissioner for electrical power at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with Zenome. “The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development is committed to accelerating Uganda’s industrial growth. We aggressively seek investors who can benefit from our stable energy supply, as this raises total demand. Importantly, we encourage renewable and energy-efficient technology and collaborate with UNBS to establish standards. Zenome’s intentions to manufacture LED street lights are ideally aligned with our initiative to electrify towns countrywide. We completely support this endeavour and will collaborate closely with Zenome to bring their breakthrough solutions to market.”
This historic event not only marks Zenome Technologies Africa’s entry into the Ugandan market, but it also symbolises a significant step towards the country’s industrialization goals. With the advent of cutting-edge LED manufacturing capabilities, Uganda’s lighting industry is set to undergo a metamorphosis, catering to the expanding demands of the local and regional markets.
