BUSINESS | MUSEVENI | LUWERO

LUWERO - President Yoweri Museveni commissioned Kawumu Tannery Uganda - a factory processing leather from hides and skins - in Luwero district on Friday (October 7).

Launching the factory, Museveni said for years, he has been having a war with importation of goods, citing it as one of the reasons he decided to set up a tannery factory in Kawumu.

"The previous governments were used to importing everything. That is the problem with Africans. They even import dead people's hair. Even that takes our money."

New Vision's Maria Wamala was in Luwero for the event and below is how the President launched the factory in pictures;

President Museveni is welcomed by government ministers on his arrival for the launch of the leather industry in Kawumu.

President Museveni looks at some of the leather shows made at the factory.

President Yoweri Museveni accompanied by government and State House officials tour the leather industry in Kawumu after its launch.

Factory employs demonstrate how products are made from raw materials.

The President was amazed with the works at the factory.

Museveni takes a keen look some of the raw materials used at the factory.

Several residents attended the launch.

NRM supporters joyfully welcomed President Museveni.

Uganda is among the top four exporters of hides and skins from Africa, but barely earns $50m (sh191b) from the process.

Dignitaries listen to the President's speech.

The Presidents given some of the finished products.

Leather processing taking place inside the leather industry.

Museveni greets the crowds.

Museveni observes some of the raw materials.

Minister Muyingo greets religious leaders.

Guests were entertained.

Minister Muyingo remarks.

“Leather is imported, papers are also imported," said the President.

The leather from the Kawumu tannery can be used to make shoes, belts, handbags, carpets, wallets, among other products.