BENNI FOODS expands Uganda’s dairy sector with new processing factory in Kiruhura

UGANDA – BENNI FOODS, a Ugandan dairy manufacturer, has officially inaugurated its new processing facility in Kiruhura District, Western Uganda. 

The factory, which has an installed capacity of one million liters per day, is expected to bolster the country’s dairy industry by enhancing production and processing capabilities.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni presided over the launch ceremony at the factory’s location on Kaguta Road, commending the initiative as a step towards optimizing Uganda’s dairy sector. 

He emphasized the need for farmers to increase milk yields per cow through improved livestock management practices. 

Current average yields in Western Uganda stand at 6.2 liters per day, among the highest in the country, but the government aims to raise this to 30 liters per cow.

Boosting Uganda’s dairy exports

BENNI FOODS specializes in whey derivatives, butter, casein, and milk powder. The company has equipped its facility with processing technology from international manufacturers such as Westfalia, Alfa Laval, NIRO, Tetra Pak, and Novasep. 

With Uganda’s dairy exports growing from UGX 379 billion (US$103.2 million) in 2021/2022 to UGX 978 billion (US$266.4 million) in 2022/2023, the factory is strategically positioned to support export-oriented dairy production.

Western Uganda offers competitive farm gate milk prices, making it an attractive location for dairy processing. 

The factory’s establishment is expected to provide farmers with a reliable market for their milk, addressing concerns over surplus production.

Government’s commitment to agricultural growth

During his address, President Museveni urged local farmers to adopt modern dairy farming techniques to enhance productivity. 

He stressed the importance of planting adequate pasture to sustain cattle health, highlighting that cows should graze efficiently rather than resorting to eating shorter grass with their teeth.

The President also assured the community that the government would provide a dedicated power line to support the factory’s operations. 

Additionally, he discussed ongoing research into tick vaccines to improve cattle health, stating that the development of such a solution would mitigate the impact of tick infestations on livestock.

Vice President Jessica Alupo, who also attended the launch, acknowledged the government’s role in creating an investment-friendly environment. 

She pointed to peace and security as key factors in attracting investors like BENNI FOODS, which contribute to Uganda’s economic growth.

Local employment and industry growth

Mr. Jitendra, CEO of BENNI FOODS, outlined the company’s goals for increasing regional milk production. 

He emphasized that the factory’s operations would help farmers supply more milk than the 100 liters currently consumed daily.

As of now, 73 youths from the local community have been employed at the facility, with expectations of additional job opportunities as the factory scales up production.