Col. Nakalema commends agro-processing investors for expanding Uganda’s industrial future

What the report says

Watchdog Uganda reported that Col. Edith Nakalema, head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), praised Avani Global Agri and Avani Smarts Farm for expanding investments in Uganda during a meeting at SHIPU offices in Kampala. She described the company’s plans as supportive of Uganda’s push for industrialisation, agricultural value addition and broader economic transformation.

According to the report, Avani’s initial investment is valued at US$5 million and includes an agro-processing project in Nwoya District, where more than 700 acres are currently under turmeric and rosemary cultivation. The crops are intended for use in wellness, food and medicinal products after processing. Avani Smarts Farm Director Dr. Siva Mahesh said the company wants Uganda to become a global centre for extracting life sciences molecules from agricultural products, with plans to expand cultivation to 5,000 acres and later involve outgrower farmers on a much larger scale.

The article said the meeting included officials from the ministries of Works and Transport; Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries; Science, Technology and Innovation; and the Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority. Nakalema said SHIPU’s role is to help protect investors and improve coordination across government institutions, while agriculture ministry official Aacha Mary Orikiriza pledged support in areas such as research, irrigation, mechanisation, licensing and export processes.

Watchdog Uganda also reported that Avani plans to invest in electric mobility, including converting existing motorcycles into electric bikes. Transport regulation official Winstone Katushabe said electric mobility is a national priority under Uganda’s development planning, citing efforts around local vehicle manufacturing, charging infrastructure and private investment.