Mkulazi factory starting sugar production, set for 50,000 tns

Mwamini Juma, the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) board chairperson, said when addressing journalists soon after board members toured the factory premises that the factory output will help to reduce the pressure on the price of sugar for the public.

NSSF and the Prison Service Corporation run the factory on a joint venture basis, where NSSF holds a dominant 96 percent stake. In his remarks, he said that the joint venture is a big step assuring NSSF members the safety of their money.

All investment expenses will come back on time, she affirmed, noting that starting production will cut imports of sugar, to which is attached providing market outlets for farmers.

Over 5000 farmers are involved in supplying the factory with raw materials, with the factory focusing on producing industrial sugar that is so far wholly imported, she said.

Dr Heldelitha Msita, board chairperson for Mkulazi Holding Co. commended the social security entity and the Prisons commercial wing for their determination in ensuring that the project is completed.

Mkulazi factory CEO Selestine Some, said that the enterprise is a unique factory, being the first in the country to produce industrial sugar. Its commissioning will increase sugar production while providing much-needed jobs for the youth, he said.

“Our strategic plan is to plant sugarcane in 4000 hectare of land, setting up installation of irrigation systems and purchasing modern agricultural equipment,” he stated.

Expressing gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for disbursing funds to facilitate the project, he praised NSSF for deciding to invest in the industrial sector, “initiating a revolution in the sugar sector.”

Data from the Sugar Board of Tanzania shows that during fiscal 2022/23 sugar demand surged to 721,000 tonnes, with 481,000 tonnes of brown sugar for household consumption and 240,000 tonnes for industrial purposes.

Household sugar consumption reached 458,799 tonnes for brown sugar, with no local output for industrial sugar, he added.