The National Defence College – Uganda (NDC-U) has praised the rapid expansion of Uganda’s industrial sector, saying it is not only boosting economic development but also directly contributing to national security.
The commendation was delivered by the Dean of Studies, Brig Gen Kefa Nangeso, during a tour by Intake 4 course members and staff to SINO Uganda Mbale Industrial Park. The visit formed part of the College’s domestic study and research tour covering key industries and the Karamoja sub-region.
Brig Gen Nangeso said the tour offered valuable insights into how Uganda’s industrialisation efforts align with long-term national goals.
“This interaction helps us appreciate how you are taking this work forward and how it will drive Uganda towards achieving Vision 2040 as promised by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni,” he said.
He identified unemployment as one of Uganda’s major security threats, adding that the rise in youth employment within the industrial sector is helping to mitigate related risks.
“We are pleased with the growing number of young people employed at SINO Uganda Mbale Industrial Park,” he said. He added that the jobs created there make the country more secure by “reducing the likelihood of youth engaging in criminal activities.”
SINO Uganda Mbale Industrial Park Administration Manager, Lourent Zhong, said the facility is the largest industrial park in East Africa. Commissioned by President Yoweri Museveni in 2018, it now hosts 75 industries and employs more than 12,000 people.
The Centre’s factories produce a wide range of goods, contributing to job creation, industrialisation, and Uganda’s broader modernisation drive.
Senior officials on the NDC-U tour included Brig Gen Dr Stephen Kusasira, Head of the Faculty of Policy and Strategic Studies, Brig Gen Caesar Muhwezi, Senior Directing Staff, Brig Gen Kazahura, Senior Directing Staff Air, Brig Gen Johnson Niwamanya, Head of Research; Prof Murindwa Rutanga, Head of Postgraduate Studies, Col Ephraim Mugume, Senior Directing Staff, Col Dr Davis Rwangoga, Senior Directing Staff and Col R.B. Arigye, the College Coordinator.
