Masaka Industrial Park Project Hit by Flooding concerns

Plans to establish an industrial park in Greater Masaka have suffered a major setback after it emerged that the proposed site is prone to frequent flooding, raising concerns over its viability.

The project site, located in Mazzigo in Bukakata Sub-county, Masaka District, spans approximately two square miles along the shores of Lake Victoria. Experts and local leaders say the area lies within a floodplain, with the lake historically expanding and reclaiming the land periodically.

The site was commissioned by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in 2015 as a strategic hub for industrial development. However, recurring floods have since discouraged potential investors, casting doubt on the project’s future.

Masaka leaders, including Gerald Lubeezi, acknowledged that the flooding challenge has slowed progress, with many investors unwilling to commit to a high-risk environment.

The situation has also affected private sector plans. Oil Palm Uganda Limited reportedly abandoned plans to construct fertilizer storage facilities at the site due to swampy conditions and has requested alternative land.

District official John Asiimwe confirmed that several development initiatives have stalled due to the unsuitable terrain.

However, former NRM district chairperson Peter Ssenkungu downplayed the concerns, arguing that flooding does not affect the entire area and could even support industries that require reliable water sources. He also cited the availability of natural resources such as sand and clay, which are vital for construction-related manufacturing.

Despite the challenges, leaders insist the industrial park remains critical for job creation, particularly as many residents have lost livelihoods linked to fishing on Lake Victoria.

In response to the setbacks, some stakeholders have proposed alternative locations, including Mutukula along the Uganda–Tanzania border and Kachinga in Nabitanga Sub-county, Lwemiyaga in Sembabule District. They argue these areas offer better transport links, access to regional markets, and stronger prospects for industrial growth.

Officials from the Uganda Investment Authority have since engaged Masaka leaders to explore solutions. Key concerns raised include inadequate infrastructure such as water and electricity, as well as limited market access for agricultural and livestock products.

The Authority has urged closer collaboration between local leaders and government to address these bottlenecks and create a more conducive environment for investment.