Masheda Foods, a leading enterprise in Uganda’s aquaculture sector, proudly announces the official opening of its state-of-the-art catfish processing facility in Buyala, Mpigi District.
The 25-acre facility, located approximately 15 km from Kampala along Mityana Road, is part of an integrated production ecosystem that spans the entire value chain from hatchery to marketplace.
Specialising in commercial catfish farming and processing, Masheda Foods Limited is committed to delivering high-quality, sustainably farmed catfish products that meet growing global demand for nutritious and environmentally conscious food options. Through innovative techniques and a strong sustainability ethos, the company is positioning itself as a key player in Uganda’s expanding aquaculture industry.
Esther Ann Ampumuza, Proprietor of Masheda Foods, commented:
“With the opening of our new processing facility, Masheda is stepping into a new league of premium aquaculture. This factory enables us to deliver freshly smoked fillets, burgers, sausages, and catfish powder at scale without ever compromising on food safety or traceability. We are dedicated to delivering the freshest, highest‑quality catfish products while setting the standard for excellence in fish processing.”
Marvin Lwasa, Managing Director of Masheda Holdings, added:
“With the launch of this state‑of‑the‑art processing facility, Masheda is transforming its vision into reality. It’s a local enterprise hub that empowers youth and women, strengthens Uganda’s food value chain, and elevates our catfish products to premium, world-class standards. This milestone represents Masheda’s promise to create sustainable livelihoods, enhance community nutrition, and turn Buyala into a model of agribusiness and social transformation.”
Ramathan Ggoobi, Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, praised the company’s efforts, stating:
“I commend initiatives like Masheda Foods for their contribution to the government’s Tenfold Growth Strategy. They are not merely exporting fish; they are adding value bringing in much-needed revenue that is crucial for financing major development projects.”
The new factory enhances Masheda’s regional and international reach. The company currently supplies over 60 retail outlets in Kinshasa, maintains active distribution in Nairobi, and has upcoming launches planned on Amazon UK, as well as in Belgium and France targeting Ugandan and African diaspora communities.
In support of local content and inclusive growth, Masheda sources over 80% of its inputs locally. It’s out-grower scheme strengthens rural-urban linkages and develops local supplier capacity, creating jobs and empowering small-scale farmers.
Beyond aquaculture, Masheda has invested heavily in community impact.
Youth Rehabilitation & Empowerment: Since 2020, Masheda Mixed Farm has trained over 500 formerly street-involved youth in pond construction, hatchery operations, harvesting, and value addition. Many now run their own ponds as out-growers in the Masheda network.
Nkore Designs by Masheda: A weaving workshop for single mothers in Buyala provides craft training and income opportunities through high-quality reed products. This initiative empowers women with practical skills and economic independence.
These programmes are part of Masheda’s commitment to the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU) strategy maximising local sourcing and fostering dignified economic participation across the aquaculture value chain. Masheda Foods offers a wide range of catfish and catfish-based products tailored to modern dietary preferences. From ready-to-eat snacks to catfish burgers and sausages, each item is crafted to balance taste and nutrition. As consumer demand evolves, Masheda continues to innovate introducing healthier options, including lower-fat and lower-sodium varieties without compromising flavour – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eT1X9bTTH6A&t=247s
