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Kagera Sugar Factory
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The Kagera Sugar Factory is located in the Kagera Region of northwestern Tanzania, near the border with Uganda. The factory has a turbulent history, having been largely destroyed during the 1979 war between Tanzania and Uganda. Following its reconstruction, it developed into one of the country's largest sugar producers. The facility includes vast sugar cane plantations irrigated by the waters of the Kagera River. Kagera Sugar plays a vital role in the regional economy, providing direct and indirect employment to thousands of people. In recent years, significant investments have been made to double its production capacity and increase the efficiency of the mill. The company also engages in co-generation of electricity from biomass (bagasse) to meet its own energy needs and contribute to environmental sustainability.
- Location: Tanzania
- Nearby: Bukoba (42 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 80 | 86 | 151 | 166 | 129 | 32 | 29 | 53 | 89 | 124 | 145 | 100 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Kagera Sugar Factory is one of Tanzania's largest agro-industrial projects, producing sugar from large-scale sugarcane cultivation in the northwestern region. It is a key employer and contributes to the local economy.
Visiting
The factory is not open to the public, but the surrounding sugarcane plantations can be viewed from nearby roads. Occasionally factory tours are arranged, but not on a regular basis.
Where to view it
A good viewpoint is the road along the plantations, offering views of endless sugarcane fields. From the bridge over the Kagera River there is a broad view of the factory compound.
Local products
The main product is sugar, but molasses is also produced as a byproduct. Fresh tropical fruits like bananas and pineapples are available on local markets in the region.
Active season
Sugarcane harvesting and processing mainly occur during the dry season from June to November. In the rainy season from December to May, the plantation is cultivated and replanted.
Nearby
A visit to the sugar factory can be combined with a trip to Kagera National Park or a boat ride on Lake Victoria. The town of Bukoba features historical and cultural attractions.
Geography
Facts
- Destruction of the original factory during the 1979 war
- Reconstruction and privatization in 2001
- Irrigation of fields is supplied by the Kagera River
- Produces over 100.000 tons of sugar annually
- Winner of the 'Best Sugar Producer' award in Tanzania
- Uses bagasse for co-generation of electricity
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Notable places around
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the Kagera Sugar Factory produce?
It processes sugar cane into sugar and other by-products for the national market.
Where is the factory located?
It is located in northwestern Tanzania in the Kagera region, near Lake Victoria.
Can you visit the factory?
No, it is a private, fenced-off industrial facility without tourist reception.
Why is sugar important for Kagera?
The sugar industry is an essential employer and economic driver in this agricultural region.
What else can one experience in Kagera?
The region features beautiful landscapes along Lake Victoria and access to national parks.
Kagera Sugar Factory: where is it located?
Kagera Sugar Factory is located in Tanzania.
Kagera Sugar Factory: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kagera Sugar Factory: why is it worth visiting?
The Kagera Sugar Factory is located in the Kagera Region of northwestern Tanzania, near the border with Uganda.
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