EXPANSION OF KILOMBERO SUGAR FACTORY TO MEET NATIONAL SUGAR DEMAND

Mr. Derick Stanley, Corporate Affairs Director at Kilombero Sugar Company (centre) speaks at a media conference in Kilombero yesterday where he spoke about the Company's efforts in nearing the completion of its K4 factory expansion. This development aligns with the Government's efforts to achieve sugar self-sufficiency. The foundation stone of the project is expected to be laid by The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan. With him, left is Mr. Victor Byemelwa Communications and Stakeholder Relations Manager and Willa Haonga, Business Affairs Manager (right).

Kilombero, Morogoro, 1 August 2024: In a significant move to bolster Tanzania's sugar production, the Kilombero Sugar Factory is nearing the completion of its K4 factory expansion. This development aligns with the Government's efforts to achieve sugar self-sufficiency. The foundation stone for this project is expected to be laid by The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan on August 4.

The expansion project which upon completion will cost Shs 744 billion, is set to be completed by June 2025. Once operational, it will boost the factory's sugar production capacity from 126,000 tons to 271,000 tons annually.

"The K4 factory is the largest and most modern Sugar production facility in East Africa, which was started two years ago" said Mr. Derick Stanley, Corporate Affairs Director at Kilombero Sugar Company. "Its completion will significantly reduce the country's sugar gap, eliminating the need for sugar imports."

Mr. Stanley emphasized the economic impact, highlighting that the project will increase annual income for Kilombero Cane growers from Shs 75 billion to approximately Shs 165 billion. The number of farmers is also expected to double from 8,000 to around 16,000.

On his part, Victor Byemelwa, Communications and Stakeholder Relations Manager, urged the public to attend the foundation stone-laying ceremony, calling it a historic event that will enhance farmers' livelihoods through increased sugarcane production.

Business Affairs Manager, Willa Haonga encouraged women to seize opportunities presented by the project. She noted that while men predominantly lead farming businesses, this initiative offers women a chance to elevate their economic status, supporting President Samia’s efforts to empower women.

For Media Iquiries;

Victor A. Byemelwa
Communications and Stakeholder Relations Manager
Kilombero Sugar Company
Email: Vbyemelwa@illovo.co.tz