government called to support to local cosmetics factory

During the visit, Kisakyamukama praised Ntale for his significant contribution to Uganda’s economic development and employment creation.

“I am pleased to see the work being done here by Hajj Adam Ntale, and the fact that so many young people are not only getting free training on cosmetics but he is also paying them,” Kisakyamukama remarked.

He acknowledged Ntale's role in improving the livelihoods of over 500 youths, whom he pays and feeds, and stressed the importance of supporting indigenous manufacturers who are investing in local talent and resources.

While recognising President Museveni’s push for commercial agriculture through the four-acre model, Kisakyamukama noted that such an approach may not be feasible in urban areas like Kampala. He noted that by equipping young people with vocational skills in cosmetics production, they can become more productive within their communities and families.

High taxes

One of the key concerns raised by Ntale was the limited space for expansion and the high taxes paid by his factory.

“Adam told me that he is paying over 250 million in taxes for this factory alone, which he deems too much,” Kisakyamukama said.

He assured Ntale that he would present these concerns to the president and advocate for potential government intervention, particularly for expanding the factory and providing tax relief.

Kisakyamukama expressed a preference for supporting local businesses like Ntale Ointment Product Ltd over foreign investors who may not have the same commitment to Uganda’s economy.

“These are the people that the government should lend a hand if they need help, not the fake investors who are coming from abroad,” he stated.

He called upon Ugandans to embrace value addition and support indigenous manufacturers, encouraging the youth who receive training at Ntale's factory to apply their skills back in their hometowns.

On his part, Hajj Adam Golooba Ntale, the CEO of Ntale Ointment Product Ltd, expressed gratitude for Kisakyamukama’s visit and appreciated the presidential appointment of individuals who actively engage with local businesses.

“We are very pleased that the president has appointed people like Kisakyamukama who come to check on us to see how we are doing,” Ntale said.

He also mentioned Kisakyamukama’s plan to invite President Museveni to visit the factory, expressing hope that this invitation will materialise.

Ntale emphasised the factory’s potential to contribute even more significantly to Uganda’s economy with government support.

“I have over 500 youths working here. If the government comes here, they will see the work we are doing. With support from the government, I think I can even employ over 10,000,” Ntale explained.

He also pointed out the need for more advanced and expensive machinery for expansion and asked for tax relief to help reduce the financial burden on the factory.