Mango Innovation Industry Transforming Lives in West Nile
Young farmers in West Nile are celebrating a major economic boost thanks to Nilezilla Ltd, a Mango Puree processing company buying their mangoes at fair and timely prices.
Led by Mr. Yasin Taban of Aringa Fruit Farmers Cooperative, the farmers say the partnership has empowered them socially and economically.
“We have been elevated economically. Our children are in school, and some farmers have built permanent homes because Nilezilla pays well and on time,” Mr. Taban noted.
Finance Minister Hon. Matia Kasaija pledged continued government support to expand the plant, saying the UGX 30 billion investment is already paying off.
“The USD 10 million we used to spend importing mango pulp will now stay in Uganda, directly benefiting farmers,” he said.
State Minister for Defence and Yumbe Woman MP, Hon. Huda Abason Oleru, commended the project’s positive impact on her district.
Food processing expert and Nilezilla founder, Prof. William Kyamuhangire, hailed Makerere scientists for bringing practical technologies that support agro-industrial growth.
Board Chairperson Ruth Aisha Biyinzika Kasolo said Nilezilla has been a transformative force since 2013—creating jobs, driving innovation, and strengthening Uganda’s agro-industry.
The company currently supplies puree to Britania, Hariss, and Coca-Cola, and now plans to enter the household market with 2-, 3-, and 4-litre family-size packs. They also plan to introduce mango seed oil and mango juice concentrate.
These innovations are projected to save Uganda at least USD 2.5 million annually.
Story by: Chipo Brenda
