De Heus commissions largest aqua feed factory in East and Central Africa

UGANDA – De Heus Uganda has officially commissioned its state-of-the-art fish feed factory in Buikwe District, marking a historic milestone for the country’s aquaculture industry. 

The ceremony, held today on September 2, 2025, was presided over by H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni alongside Mr. Co De Heus, Co-Chairman of De Heus Animal Nutrition.

The new facility, built at a cost of US$25 million, is the largest of its kind in East and Central Africa, with an annual capacity of 100,000 metric tons of fish feed. 

It is expected to significantly boost fish farming, food security, and economic opportunities in Uganda and the wider region.

A game-changer for Uganda’s blue economy

Speaking at the event, President Museveni commended De Heus for its investment and commitment to Uganda’s agricultural sector, noting the project’s potential to enhance food production and reduce reliance on imports. 

The factory, equipped with cutting-edge technology sourced from more than ten countries, will serve as a cornerstone in unlocking Uganda’s aquaculture potential.

“With cutting-edge technology manufactured in more than 10 different countries, the result is the most state-of-the-art aqua feed factory in East Africa,” said Aart Kool, Project Manager, as he officially handed over the factory keys to Robert Kanyembo, Plant Manager of De Heus Uganda.

Beyond feed production, the facility is set to create demand for locally grown crops such as maize, cassava, and soybeans, strengthening linkages across the agricultural value chain.

Building on a century-long legacy

For De Heus, the commissioning represents both continuity and expansion. Tracing the company’s roots back to 1911, Co-Chairman Mr. Co De Heus reflected on its family legacy and enduring vision.

“Our journey as a family business began in 1911, when my great-grandfather founded the company. As a boy, I watched my grandfather and father manage our feed factory in the Netherlands, an experience that inspired my path. In Uganda, our investment will drive demand for locally grown crops while supporting the growth of commercial fish farming into a profitable sector for both smallholders and large-scale farmers,” he said.

Last year, De Heus sold 13 million tons of feed concentrates and premixes globally, a testament to its scale and expertise. The Uganda plant adds a significant new chapter to that success.

Supporting farmers through mentorship

Bon Tjeenk Willink, Managing Director of De Heus Uganda, emphasised the company’s commitment to building a sustainable aquaculture ecosystem.

“Aquaculture in Uganda has experienced significant growth in recent years, and local farmers have played an outstanding role in driving this progress. In line with our commitment to supporting this sector, De Heus Uganda has invested US$25 million in establishing the largest aqua feed factory in East Africa,” he stated.

“To further strengthen the industry, we are also pleased to introduce the De Heus Aquafarming Mentorship Program, designed to equip local farmers with knowledge, skills, and best practices for sustainable aquaculture,” Bon added.

A shared vision for growth

The commissioning ceremony was attended by high-level dignitaries, including the Ambassador of the Netherlands, government officials, and industry stakeholders. The event underscored the collaborative effort behind the project and its anticipated impact on regional aquaculture.

From its groundbreaking in 2023 to today’s inauguration, the De Heus fish feed factory stands as a beacon of innovation, resilience, and partnership. 

As East Africa continues to expand its blue economy, the facility is set to play a pivotal role in empowering farmers, enhancing food security, and driving economic growth.

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