Kapeeka Industrial Park marks 10 years, showcases Uganda’s industrial vision

Kapeeka, Nakaseke District – The Liao Shen Industrial Park in Kapeeka celebrated its 10th anniversary yesterday, highlighting the transformative impact of the industrial park model in advancing Uganda’s industrial agenda.

Speaking at the celebrations on December 6, Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Trade, Dr. Ramathan Ggoobi, emphasized that industrial parks are particularly suited for countries like Uganda because they concentrate critical infrastructure—power, roads, and water—making them attractive to investors.

“It is gratifying to see a landscape that was just a maize garden 12 years ago now bustling with industries,” Dr. Ggoobi said. He assured that the government remains committed to investing in infrastructure for all industrial parks, with plans to establish 24 parks nationwide.

Dr. Ggoobi stressed that industrial parks must now focus on increasing local content by using locally sourced materials and equipping young people with transferable skills. “How do we ensure that we provide good jobs, that pay well—a living wage?” he asked, pledging continued government incentives for investors aligned with national priorities.

The Chief Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation and Senior Presidential Advisor on Defence, Gen. Salim Saleh, who was the chief guest, highlighted the park’s growth, noting it now produces over 1,000 products, up from an initial 50, and has created 36,000 jobs, with products reaching markets across the country.

Gen. Saleh also challenged historical leaders, including former Finance Minister Syda Bbumba, to explore solutions for poverty and unemployment in communities surrounding the park, underscoring the need for inclusive growth alongside industrial development.

The 10th anniversary of Kapeeka Industrial Park serves as a testament to the industrial park model as a catalyst for investment, job creation, and economic transformation in Uganda.