Uganda Baati marks 60 years, launches Safal Foundation for sustainable growth

Uganda Baati Limited marked 60 years of excellence in the Building Solutions industry with the launch of the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation. The anniversary celebration, held at the Kampala Serena Hotel Gardens last Thursday, was graced by the Minister of Finance, Matia Kasaija, alongside industry leaders, government officials, and distinguished guests.

In his remarks, Kasaija commended Uganda Baati for its significant contribution to Uganda’s development over the past six decades. “Uganda Baati has not only grown as a business but has also played a pivotal role in the development of our construction industry. By providing high-quality roofing and building solutions, Uganda Baati has contributed significantly to improving the state of infrastructure that is a key driver of sector investing. This growth has not only created jobs but has also supported the development of critical infrastructure across Uganda. Your products have played a vital role in the construction of homes, schools, hospitals, and other facilities that are essential to improving the quality of life for Ugandans,” he said.

Reflecting on the company’s history, Uganda Baati CEO George Arodi highlighted the resilience, innovation, and customer commitment that have driven the company’s evolution from a roofing sheets supplier to a comprehensive building solutions provider. “Our 60-year journey has been proof of the power of resilience, innovation, and a commitment to our customers and the communities we serve. Uganda Baati has evolved from a roof sheets company into a comprehensive building solutions provider, meeting the diverse needs of Uganda’s construction industry. This transformation has been driven by our dedication to quality and our vision of supporting Uganda’s development," Arodi noted. He further emphasized the company’s growth since its founding in 1964 as Steel Works Company in Tororo, becoming a household name synonymous with quality and reliability in building materials.

The event was characterized by elegance and showcased Uganda Baati’s innovative Building Solutions, attended by top executives and featured a display of the company’s milestones. Dr. Alan Shonubi, Chairperson of the Board of Directors, attributed Uganda Baati’s success to continuous investment in innovation and technology. He stated, “Uganda Baati’s success over the years can be attributed to its continuous investment in innovation and technology. The company has consistently introduced cutting-edge products and solutions that meet the evolving needs of the construction industry. Therefore, as we celebrate 60 years of Uganda Baati, we honor our legacy while looking forward to the future with optimism and determination.”

David Bahati, Minister of State for Industry, also lauded Uganda Baati’s role in the construction sector, stating, "Uganda Baati has consistently demonstrated leadership in the industry through innovation and quality. Their journey over the past 60 years serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with dedication and a customer-centric approach, remarkable achievements are possible."

The gala also featured remarks from the Safal Group’s founders and EXCO members, who expressed their enthusiasm for Uganda Baati’s achievements. Safal Group CEO Anders Lindgren noted, “We are deliberate to improve the wellbeing of marginalized individuals and their communities through delivering need-based social protection and development initiatives that will amplify their fullest social economic capacities, hence the timeliness of the launch of the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation.”

During the unveiling of the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, the company was praised for its strong commitment to sustainability, which is integral to its operations and corporate ethos. As part of the Safal Group, Uganda Baati has made considerable strides in integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its business strategy, launching initiatives to improve the livelihoods of Ugandans and protect the environment.

As part of the celebrations, Uganda Baati recognized key stakeholders who have been instrumental in its success, including the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), and the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), among others. These awards underscored the vital partnerships that have contributed to Uganda Baati’s sustained growth and success.

CEO George Arodi emphasized the importance of innovation for staying competitive, stating, "We have always believed that innovation is key to staying relevant in a competitive market. Our customers’ needs are constantly changing, and it is our responsibility to anticipate these changes and deliver solutions that not only meet but exceed their expectations." He also outlined the company’s future plans, focusing on market expansion, product diversification, and digital transformation to enhance customer experience.

Board Chairman Dr. Alan Shonubi concluded, "Our vision for the future is clear. We will continue to innovate, push the boundaries of what is possible in the construction industry, and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. The journey ahead is filled with opportunities, and we are ready to embrace them with the same spirit of resilience and innovation that has brought us this far."