Atiak Sugar Factory Under Fire: Opposition MPs Question 11-Year Losses
President Museveni has also warned against frustrating the project's implementation.
The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament Joel Ssenyonyi led a delegation of shadow cabinet members to Atiak Sugar Factory in Amuru district, run by Horyal Investments Holding, to conduct an oversight visit.
The team included MPs Suzan Mugabi, Okin PP Ojara, Sekabira Denis, Luttamaguzi Ssemakula, Sserukenya Davis, Lukyamuzi David Kalwanga, Joseph Ssewungu, Gilbert Oulanya, Santa Okot, Christine Ndiwalana, and Lucy Akello.
The MPs were concerned about the factory's persistent losses, contrary to projected profits of 540 billion shillings by January 2026.
Ssenyonyi questioned the viability of the project, saying, "If it hasn't made any profit for 11 years since its inception, does it make any sense in terms of investment?"
The government has invested 553.7 billion shillings through the Uganda Development Corporation, prompting the delegation to demand value for taxpayers' money. During the visit, it was revealed that 200 litres of fuel are used daily to run machinery without producing sugar.
"This is unacceptable," Ssenyonyi emphasized. "We need to see tangible results from this investment."
The opposition leader's concerns echo those of other leaders, who have urged caution and proper management of the project.
President Museveni has also warned against frustrating the project's implementation.
Ssenyonyi says the oversight visit aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public funds and resources.