LYANTONDE — The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Monica Musenero, has commissioned the upgraded Katebe Farm Engineering Transformation Project, describing it as a model for Uganda’s push toward industrialisation and value addition.
The facility, located in Kashagama, Lyantonde District and owned by Kale Kayihura, was upgraded by the Engineering Development and Innovation Centre (EDIC).
“Engineering solutions made in Uganda”
Speaking at the commissioning on March 22, Dr. Musenero said the project reflects Uganda’s growing capacity to develop homegrown engineering solutions.
“We are not only launching a milk processing facility, but also engineering solutions made in Uganda,” she said.
“Gen Kayihura began this innovation journey in 2018, which cost him a lot of money without the expected returns because of the lack of affordable local technical expertise.”
She described the project as aligned with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s call for a shift from subsistence farming to a market-oriented economy.
The Minister praised Kayihura for his vision, calling the facility “an innovation pathfinder” that is helping transform community livelihoods.
She noted that EDIC is playing a key role in addressing long-standing gaps in affordable engineering solutions by designing precision tools, components, and technologies to support local innovators and manufacturers.
From struggle to success
In his remarks, Gen. (Rtd) Kayihura said the project was inspired by President Museveni’s message on value addition.
“I started this project on a small scale using loans obtained from the UPDF SACCO. It was very expensive because I had to import machines and technical expertise,” he said.
He credited EDIC for turning around the project.
“They visited the yoghurt unit, identified the challenges and resolved them within three months. That is why we are here today to launch a complete dairy processing facility.”
Kayihura emphasised that the initiative was aimed at supporting local farmers.
“This project was not established primarily for personal financial gain, but to create a market for local farmers’ milk, which was previously sold cheaply without meaningful returns,” he said.
SACCOs praised for financing
The Chief Executive Officer of Wazalendo SACCO, Yusuf Magero Buha, commended Kayihura as one of the institution’s most exemplary members.
“Gen Kayihura has effectively utilised credit in a way that sets a positive example for other members,” Col. Buha said.
He pledged continued support to members, noting that the SACCO remains committed to transforming lives through accessible financial services.
Production boosted
Officials said the upgrade has significantly improved production capacity at the facility. Output has increased from 500 litres of yoghurt in 24 hours to 3,000 litres in just 12 hours following EDIC’s intervention.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by government officials, local leaders, and community members, marking a milestone in efforts to promote value addition and agro-industrialisation in Uganda.
