The construction sector in Uganda has expanded rapidly over the past two decades, fueled by infrastructure projects, urban development, and housing demand. This has boosted the growth of the cement manufacturers in Uganda, who now play a central role in supplying both domestic and regional markets.
As of 2018, Uganda had an installed cement production capacity of 6.8 million tonnes per year, far above the country’s consumption of 2.4 million tonnes at the time. The surplus has enabled Uganda to export cement to regional markets including Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, and eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Major Cement Manufacturers in Uganda
- Tororo Cement Limited
- Uganda’s largest cement producer, with an annual capacity of 3.0 million tonnes, accounting for 44% of national output.
- Located in Tororo District, it supplies both domestic and export markets.
- Hima Cement Limited
- Founded in 1994, Hima Cement is a subsidiary of Bamburi Cement (Kenya) and part of the Holcim Group.
- It produces 1.9–2.0 million tonnes annually, representing 28% of Uganda’s cement market.
- Simba Cement Uganda Limited
- A wholly owned subsidiary of National Cement Company Limited of Kenya.
- Simba Cement produces 1.0 million tonnes per year (15% of national output).
- Kampala Cement Company Limited
- With a capacity of around 1.0 million tonnes annually, Kampala Cement holds 14% market share.
- It focuses on supplying the central and western Ugandan market.
- Metro Cement Limited
- A newer entrant to the Ugandan market, contributing to the country’s growing production capacity.
- Sinoma Cement Factory Uganda Limited (under development)
- A Chinese-backed investment project that, once completed, is expected to increase national cement output further.
Market Share Rankings (2018)
- Tororo Cement Limited – 3.0 million tonnes (44%)
- Hima Cement Limited – 2.0 million tonnes (28%)
- Simba Cement Uganda Limited – 1.0 million tonnes (14%)
- Kampala Cement Company Limited – 1.0 million tonnes (14%)
- Total Output: 7.0 million tonnes
Cement Production and Consumption Trends
- 2018 Installed Capacity: 6.8 million tonnes annually.
- Domestic Consumption (2018): 2.4 million tonnes (35% of total production).
- Exports: Surplus cement is exported to neighboring countries including Rwanda, Kenya, South Sudan, and eastern DRC.
The demand for cement in Uganda continues to rise due to major infrastructure projects such as roads, dams, bridges, and industrial parks. The entry of new factories like Sinoma Cement and expansions at existing plants are expected to make Uganda a cement hub in East Africa.
Importance of Cement Manufacturers in Uganda
The cement manufacturers in Uganda not only meet domestic needs but also generate export revenue and employment. Companies like Tororo Cement and Hima Cement dominate the market, while competitors like Simba and Kampala Cement ensure pricing remains competitive. The industry’s growth is directly linked to Uganda’s development agenda and its role in regional integration.
