PRESIDENT SAMIA LAYS FOUNDATION STONE FOR KILOMBERO SUGAR K4 PROJECT

President Samia Suluhu Hassan (right) with the Managing Director of Kilombero Sugar Company Mr. Guy Williams (left) among other Government officials unveil a foundation stone for the expansion of Kilombero Sugar Factory-K4 in Kilombero, Morogoro region yesterday.

Kilombero, Morogoro – 04.08.2024: In a significant move towards boosting Tanzania's economy and achieving sugar self-sufficiency, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has laid a foundation stone for the Kilombero Sugar Factory's highly anticipated K4 project. Set to launch in June 2025, the K4 Factory is poised to address the nation's sugar gap and contribute to economic growth, especially for the cane growers in the Kilombero valley.

President Samia emphasized the Government's commitment to supporting industrial projects that enhance local production and reduce dependence on imports. "The K4 Factory represents a crucial step towards achieving our goal of self-sufficiency in sugar production. This project will create jobs, stimulate local industries, and ensure that Tanzanians have access to affordable sugar," she stated.

The K4 Factory, a state-of-the-art facility, will incorporate innovative and sustainable production methods, setting new standards in the sugar industry. By implementing environmentally friendly practices, the factory aims to minimize its ecological footprint while maximizing efficiency.

Minister of Industry and Trade, Hon. Suleiman Jafo, remarked, “This project underscores our commitment to fostering industrial growth and ensuring that every Tanzanian can enjoy the benefits of our nation's resources. We are confident that the K4 Factory, once operational in June 2025, will be a game-changer for the sugar industry and the country's economy."

Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Hussein Bashe, stated that the expansion project will increase the number of cane growers from 9,500 to 16,000. He highlighted that their income will rise from TZS 65 billion to TZS 165 billion per year. He emphasized the Government's commitment to ensuring a win-win situation for both farmers and investors.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Board for Kilombero Sugar Company, Ambassador Ami Ramadhan Mpungwe said, "We greatly appreciate the proactive steps taken by the Government to address the challenges facing the sugar industry. We are confident that through collaborative efforts with the relevant ministries, we will find effective solutions to these issues. As we look forward to the completion of the K4 project next June, we sincerely hope that Your Excellency Madam President will honor us with your presence to officially inaugurate the new factory. This occasion will be particularly meaningful for me, as it will mark my retirement after 25 years of service to the Kilombero Sugar Company. I am optimistic that the future holds continued growth and success for the company and its stakeholders."

Speaking during the event, Guy Williams, Managing Director of Kilombero Sugar Company, said, “The foundation stone laying marks a significant milestone for the Company. The K4 project, with an investment of USD 292 million, will more than double our sugar production to 271,000 tons per annum, contributing to Tanzania's goal of achieving self-sufficiency in sugar by 2025. This project not only enhances our production capabilities but also brings substantial economic benefits to the Kilombero community and the nation at large."

Local communities are set to benefit significantly from this project through job creation, improved infrastructure, and various community development initiatives. "The positive impact on the surrounding communities cannot be overstated. We are committed to ensuring that this project brings lasting benefits to the people of Kilombero and Tanzania at large," added Williams.

The launch of the K4 Factory is a testament to the effective collaboration between the government and the private sector. This partnership underscores the shared vision of a prosperous and self-reliant Tanzania.

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