By Our Reporter
Uganda Baati Limited toasted to 60 years of championing excellence in the Building Solutions industry with the unveiling of the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation. The anniversary gala was officiated by the Minister of Finance Hon. Matia Kasaija, and attended by industry leaders, government officials, and esteemed guests at the Kampala Serena Hotel Gardens last Thursday.
Speaking at the gala, Minister of Finance Hon. Matia Kasaija congratulated Uganda Baati upon reaching the 60 years and appreciated the team for the immense contribution towards the development of the country. “Uganda Baati has not only grown as a business but has also played a pivotal role in the development of our construction industry. By providing high-quality roofing and building solutions, Uganda Baati has contributed significantly to improving the state of infrastructure that is as a key driver of sector investing.
“This growth has not only created jobs but has also supported the development of critical infrastructure across Uganda. Your products have played a vital role in the construction of homes, schools, hospitals, and other facilities that are essential to improving the quality of life for Ugandans,” he said.
Reflecting on the company’s journey, Uganda Baati CEO George Arodi said, “Our 60-year journey has been proof of the power of resilience, innovation, and a commitment to our customers and the communities we serve. Uganda Baati has evolved from a roof sheets company into a comprehensive building solutions provider, meeting the diverse needs of Uganda’s construction industry. This transformation has been driven by our dedication to quality and our vision of supporting Uganda’s development.”
“Since its founding in 1964 as Steel Works Company in Tororo, Uganda Baati has played a pivotal role in shaping the infrastructure of Uganda. From its modest inception, the company has grown to become a household name known for quality and reliability in building materials. Over the years, Uganda Baati has supplied the materials that have constructed schools, hospitals, government buildings, and homes across the country, becoming an integral part of Uganda’s growth story,” Arodi added.
The gala exuded of elegance and pomp with exhibitions of Uganda Baati’ innovative Building solutions, a gathering of Executives, and a display of the company’s journey and milestones.
Addressing the guests, the Chairperson, Board of Directors, Dr. Alan Shonubi said, “Uganda Baati’s success over the years can be attributed to its continuous investment in innovation and technology. The company has consistently introduced cutting-edge products and solutions that meet the evolving needs of the construction industry. Therefore, as we celebrate 60 years of Uganda Baati, we honor our legacy while looking forward to the future with optimism and determination.”
Hon. David Bahati, Minister of State for Industry, highlighted the significance of Uganda Baati’s role in the construction sector, stating, “Uganda Baati has consistently demonstrated leadership in the industry through innovation and quality. Their journey over the past 60 years serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with dedication and a customer-centric approach, remarkable achievements are possible.”
The event was also graced by the Safal Group’s founders, GMT, and EXCO members who expressed their enthusiasm of the notable achievements. “We are deliberate to improve the wellbeing of marginalized individuals and their communities through delivering need based social protection and development initiatives that will amplify their fullest social economic capacities, hence the timeliness of the launch of the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation,” Anders Lindgren the Safal Group CEO said.
During the unveil of the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, Uganda Baati was lauded for its commitment to sustainability which is deeply embedded in its operations and corporate ethos. As part of the Safal Group, the company has taken significant strides to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its business strategy. Through its Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, the company has launched numerous initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of Ugandans and protecting the environment.
As part of the celebrations, Uganda Baati also recognized the invaluable contributions of key stakeholders who have been instrumental in its success over the years. The awards, presented during the gala, honored organizations such as the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), the Presidential CEO Forum, the Statehouse Investors Protection Unit, the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, and the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS). These awards highlighted the strong partnerships that have been crucial to Uganda Baati’s continued growth and success.
“We have always believed that innovation is key to staying relevant in a competitive market,” Mr. Arodi explained. “Our customers’ needs are constantly changing, and it is our responsibility to anticipate these changes and deliver solutions that not only meet but exceed their expectations. Our journey has been marked by several milestones, from expanding our product range to include complete building solutions, to embracing digital channels that make it easier for customers to access our products. The future holds even greater promise as we explore new technologies and sustainable practices that will define the next chapter of our growth.”
The next phase of Uganda Baati’s journey will focus on deepening its market presence, expanding its product portfolio, and embracing digital transformation to enhance customer experience.
“Our vision for the future is clear,” said Dr. Alan Shonubi, the Uganda Baati Board Chairman. “We will continue to innovate, to push the boundaries of what is possible in the construction industry, and to make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. The journey ahead is filled with opportunities, and we are ready to embrace them with the same spirit of resilience and innovation that has brought us this far.”