Julius Martin Ekomu, CEO of the Soroti Fruit Factory, recently announced that the factory will recommence mango processing within the next fortnight. Since the introduction of a new mango line in December 2022, the factory has conducted processing trials with 300,000 to 400,000 kilograms of local mangoes.
Factory representatives confirmed plans to purchase 110 tons of mangoes for Sh49.5 mln (€12,000) by the end of next week. Mangoes will be procured from farmers at a consistent rate of Sh450 per kilogram, Ekomu stated.
The CEO also shared that the improved mangoes slated for processing will sustain operations until May, when local mangoes will be available again. In an effort to support local farmers and maintain factory operations, management has also initiated an emergency orange purchase.
Between November 2023 and early January 2024, the factory acquired nearly one million kilograms of oranges, worth Sh450 million (€108,000), from local Teso farmers, despite funding challenges. Ekomu also addressed complaints about middlemen, stating that the factory has taken measures to ensure direct procurement from farmers, thereby eliminating the role of intermediaries.
Source: newvision.co.ug