Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Irish-based company Kerry International Flavor has opened its plant in Uganda. The over five-million-dollar investment located in Banda is aimed at supporting local food and beverage manufacturers.
Peter Dillane, the Vice President of Africa and the Middle East of the Kerry Company while speaking to journalists at the launch of the company on Thursday said that the plant in Uganda will increase its presence in the East African region and Africa.
Dillane said that Africa has 65 percent of vast land that can used for agriculture. He added that more crops have been grown for use in food processing but in an unorganized manner making it hard to get consistent quality and prices.
Dillane revealed that with the opening of the plant in Uganda, there is a need to work with agricultural groups, government, and other partners to establish consistency, good, and stable prices for the farmers.
He also noted that when production starts, more companies will begin to manufacture locally and create more jobs for Ugandans.
Kevin Colgan the Irish Ambassador to Uganda, highlighted that Kerry Group will give huge importance not just in production but also in science and technology transfer to help Uganda grow its food industry.
Colgan said that the coming of Kerry Flavor company in the country will enhance the income of Ugandans.
Kerry has a significant presence in Africa, with its main facility in Durban, South Africa, and sales offices in Lagos and Nairobi.
During the Uganda- European Union Business Summit in Kampala, several companies from Europe promised to partner with companies in Uganda, and over 100 million Euros worth of projects were signed between member states of the European Union, Uganda, and the private sector.
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