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Lugazi Sugar Factory
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The Lugazi Sugar Factory, officially known as the Sugar Corporation of Uganda Limited (SCOUL), is the oldest sugar mill in the country. Established in 1924 by Nanji Kalidas Mehta, it pioneered the development of the sugar industry in Uganda. Located in Lugazi, Buikwe District, the factory sits strategically along the main highway connecting the capital, Kampala, with the industrial hub of Jinja. During the Idi Amin era, the company was nationalized and fell into a state of disrepair, but it was returned to the Mehta Group in the 1980s and underwent extensive modernization. Today, SCOUL manages vast estates of sugarcane that serve as the economic backbone of the surrounding area. Beyond sugar production, the facility is involved in biomass energy generation and the manufacturing of industrial alcohol. The factory serves as a historic monument to Asian-Ugandan entrepreneurship and remains a vital component of the nation's industrial sector. Despite environmental debates regarding plantation expansion, Lugazi continues to be a critical source of employment and domestic trade.
- Location: Uganda
- Nearby: Mukono (20 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 | 24 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 76 | 72 | 162 | 216 | 162 | 67 | 59 | 89 | 119 | 166 | 183 | 131 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Lugazi Sugar Factory is one of the oldest sugar production facilities in Uganda, operated by the Sugar Corporation of Uganda Limited. It plays a central role in the regional economy by processing sugarcane and providing employment.
Visiting
The factory grounds are not usually open to the public as it is an active industrial site. However, it can be viewed from the outside along the surrounding roads at any time.
Where to view it
The best view of the facility is from the main road that passes alongside the factory grounds. From there, the large silos and processing buildings are clearly visible.
Local products
Sugarcane is widely cultivated around Lugazi and processed into crystal sugar at the factory. Local markets often sell fresh raw sugar and molasses as by-products.
Active season
The main sugarcane harvest season in Uganda runs during the dry period from December to March. During this time, the factory operates at full capacity and transport vehicles are especially frequent.
Nearby
A visit to the sugar factory can be combined with a trip to the nearby town of Lugazi. There, local markets and traditional craft workshops await discovery.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in 1924 by entrepreneur Nanji Kalidas Mehta
- Located in Lugazi, Buikwe District, along the Kampala-Jinja highway
- The first commercial sugar factory to be established in Uganda
- Returned to the Mehta Group for rehabilitation in the 1980s
- Generates its own electricity using biomass from sugarcane residue
- Employs over 7,000 workers across the factory and plantations
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Sights in the town Lugazi Sugar Factory (1)
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Frequently asked questions
What does Lugazi Sugar Factory produce?
The factory mainly processes sugar cane into sugar and by-products.
Where exactly is it?
It is located in the Buikwe district, on the main road between Kampala and Jinja.
Is the place historically significant?
Yes, it is one of Uganda's oldest industrial centers with a long history of sugar production.
Can one visit the facility?
Visits are usually not public, but the industrial landscape is visible from the road.
What is in the surroundings?
The scenic Mabira Forest region is a nearby destination for nature lovers.
Lugazi Sugar Factory: where is it located?
Lugazi Sugar Factory is located in Uganda.
Lugazi Sugar Factory: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Lugazi Sugar Factory: why is it worth visiting?
The Lugazi Sugar Factory, officially known as the Sugar Corporation of Uganda Limited (SCOUL), is the oldest sugar mill in the country.
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