Business 24 April 2026 State House (Uganda)
Uganda Aims to Slash Clinker Imports with New Yaobai Cement Factory
President Yoweri Museveni has commissioned Phase One of the Yaobai Cement factory in Moroto District, a move expected to significantly reduce Uganda's reliance on imported cement clinker. Source: https://statehouse.go.ug/uganda-moves-to-cut-clinker-importation-as-president-museveni-commissions-yaobai-factory
President Yoweri Museveni, accompanied by former Ethiopian Prime Minister H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, officially opened Phase One of the Yaobai Cement factory’s clinker production line in Nanduget, Moroto District. This new facility, with a capacity of 6,000 tonnes, marks a significant step towards self-sufficiency in cement production for Uganda.
President Museveni lauded the efforts of Mr. Zang Jiewen, Chairman of West China Cement, and the guidance of H.E. Desalegn for facilitating this investment. He highlighted that clinker, which constitutes about 85% of cement, was previously imported, and this factory will largely eliminate that need, saving the country valuable foreign exchange.
The initiative is a testament to the growing industrialization of the Karamoja region, once considered underdeveloped. The government has pledged its support to ensure a favorable tax environment for the factory, aligning with national economic policies. Infrastructure development, including crucial road networks in the region, is also being prioritized.
H.E. Desalegn, serving as Africa Regional Ambassador for West China Cement, emphasized the mutual benefits of China-Africa investments in fostering development and economic transformation. Vice President Jessica Alupo and Minister of Energy and Mineral Development Ruth Nankabirwa both commended the President’s role in creating an attractive investment climate and the progress of Karamoja.
The project, a brainchild inspired by President Museveni’s vision, represents an investment exceeding $300 million. Upon full operation, it is projected to produce up to 2 million tonnes of clinker and 3 million tonnes of cement annually, creating over 3,500 jobs and potentially saving Uganda an estimated $200 million in foreign exchange each year.
Furthermore, the factory is poised to serve regional markets, including South Sudan, Western Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, bolstering the East African supply chain and contributing to regional integration.