President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially launched the Kiira Vehicle Plant in Jinja, calling it a landmark achievement in Uganda’s journey toward industrialisation and self-reliance.
The President said the project demonstrates that Ugandans have the capacity to build modern industries that can compete on a global scale. 
He linked the development to government’s long-term vision of transforming the economy by utilising the country’s natural resources.
Museveni noted that Uganda’s economy is currently expanding at 7% and is expected to grow beyond 10% with the commencement of oil production.
“We have a clear vision for what will transform our society,” he said, emphasising that strategic use of local resources would accelerate progress.
Among the priorities, the President highlighted the processing of Uganda’s iron ore reserves in Kabale and Butogota into high-grade steel. 
This, he explained, would drastically cut the country’s $900 million annual steel import bill and create new industries.
He further pointed to the global demand for electric vehicles, underscoring Uganda’s advantage in having large lithium deposits in Ntungamo and other regions.
Museveni said this mineral wealth places the country in a strong position to participate in the future of green transport.
Congratulating Makerere University, Kiira Motors Corporation, and the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) for spearheading the plant, the President said their success had shattered doubts about Uganda’s potential.
“Their achievements prove that success is possible, breaking down the barriers of doubt and demonstrating that we can indeed realise our potential,” Museveni remarked.
The commissioning of the Kiira Vehicle Plant, according to government, is a key step in positioning Uganda as a hub for automotive technology, resource-based industries, and innovation.