By James Alomu
The grain processing facility at Soroti High value Additional Market has reportedly turned into a breeding ground for birds, raising concern among city authorities over the continued idleness of a facility intended to support value addition and agricultural development.
Soroti City Mayor Francis Esudu told city councillors that the facility remains largely unused despite the significant investment made in its establishment. He said the lack of activity has left the premises vulnerable to misuse and deterioration, with birds occupying parts of the facility.
Esudu also revealed that Soroti City is demanding more than Shs700 million in connection with the management and operation of the facility, which was handed over under an arrangement involving the Ministry of Local Government.
According to the Mayor, TOTCO Limited, the contractor entrusted with managing the facility, was expected under the agreement to remit Shs25 million to Soroti City every month. However, Esudu said the company has not made the expected payments to the city to date.
The Mayor expressed concern that a facility established to support grain processing, promote value addition and improve market opportunities for farmers in the region is not serving its intended purpose.
Esudu told councillors that the city intends to pursue the matter to ensure the facility is put to productive use and begins contributing to the local economy.
The situation has renewed concerns over the management and utilization of public infrastructure in Soroti City, particularly facilities established to support farmers and strengthen agricultural value chains.
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