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Tag: Plascon Uganda

  • UMA kicks off 31st Uganda International Trade Fair (UGITF) 2025

    UMA kicks off 31st Uganda International Trade Fair (UGITF) 2025

    The Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) has officially opened the 31st Uganda International Trade Fair (UGITF) 2025 under the theme “Sustainable Industrialization for Inclusive Growth, Employment and Wealth Creation.” The fair, which began on October 2, 2025, was officially opened by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Matia Kasaija, who commended Uganda’s manufacturers for their vital role in driving industrial transformation.

    In his remarks, Hon. Matia Kasaija emphasized that sustainable industrialization remains the cornerstone of job creation and wealth generation in Uganda. “By embracing innovation, efficiency, and value addition, Uganda’s manufacturers can drive the country toward true self-reliance and global competitiveness. The Uganda International Trade Fair demonstrates that our manufacturing sector is not only growing but is ready to compete globally,” he noted.

    The Uganda International Trade Fair stands as more than just an exhibition. It is a transformative platform for manufacturers to showcase innovation, launch new products, and expand their access to regional and international markets. With agriculture, science-driven manufacturing, and the Made-in-Uganda e-commerce drive at its core, this year’s fair marks a decisive step in the country’s journey from import dependence to global competitiveness.

    Aga Sekalala Jr., UMA Board Chairperson, reaffirmed UMA’s commitment to positioning the fair as a hub for innovation and collaboration, noting that “This year’s edition of the trade fair is unlike any other. Our manufacturers are not just showcasing products; they are unveiling innovations, technologies, and partnerships that reflect Uganda’s readiness to lead in sustainable industrialization. The fair is truly a gateway for innovation, growth, and global competitiveness.”

    Among the exhibitors is Plascon Uganda, which continues to play a leading role in promoting industrial excellence and innovation. The company, represented by Brand Manager Daniel Kayongo and Marketing Coordinator Benjamin Bicung, received an Appreciation Award as a Gold Sponsor of the Trade Fair. At the Plascon Pavilion, visitors are being treated to a vibrant showcase of the company’s full decorative and protective paint portfolio, ranging from interior and exterior emulsions to specialty undercoats, primers, texture finishes, and weatherproofing solutions.

    In addition, Plascon is using its exhibition space to promote the 14th edition of its flagship customer engagement campaign, “Paint & Win,” inviting visitors to interact with the brand, ask questions, buy paint, and stand a chance to win cash prizes, motorbikes, and tricycles. Speaking during the event, Daniel Kayongo, Head of Marketing at Plascon Uganda, highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s industrial and economic transformation. “As Plascon, we believe that colour is not just about aesthetics, it’s about progress. Our participation in the Uganda International Trade Fair reflects our commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability. We are proud to stand alongside other Ugandan manufacturers in building a more self-reliant and competitive economy,” said Kayongo.

    The fair has drawn participation from a wide range of other partners, including the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Information, Total Energies, Bank of Uganda, NIRA Uganda, MMI Steel, MTN Uganda, Unisteel, Crestanks, Hisense, and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (MTIC), among others. It continues to serve as a strategic

  • Plascon Drives Excellence with Premium Paints at Kampala Auto Show

    Plascon Drives Excellence with Premium Paints at Kampala Auto Show

    The 4th edition of the Kampala Auto Show, held from 12th to 13th July 2025 at the Kololo Independence Grounds, concluded in style, drawing over 5,000 auto enthusiasts, motorsport fans, families, and key players in Uganda’s automotive industry. Regarded as the country’s premier automotive experience, this annual event once again united vehicle manufacturers, spare part dealers, auto financing institutions, insurers, motorsport talent, and car lovers in one vibrant hub of business, innovation, and entertainment.

    Plascon Uganda, one of the main sponsors and partners of this year’s show, was on ground to exhibit its comprehensive automotive paint product range, reinforcing its commitment to driving excellence and innovation in Uganda’s mobility sector. Speaking at the event, Benjamin Bicung, Marketing Coordinator at Plascon Uganda, expressed his pride in being part of the show, saying, “We are proud to be part of the 4th edition of the Kampala Auto Show, celebrating the spirit of motion, design, and creativity. Our automotive product range is engineered to meet the highest standards of performance, durability, and beauty, ensuring that vehicles not only look stunning but also withstand the rigours of our climate. We look forward to continuously supporting Uganda’s automotive and motorsport communities with solutions they can trust.”

    Plascon’s automotive solutions on display included its flagship Plascon Plascryl, a two-component acrylic/isocyanate enamel known for its high gloss, fast drying, and excellent weather and chemical resistance. Specially designed to handle tropical climates, Plascryl is virtually scratchproof and can be force dried to speed up processing times. It’s ideal for refinishing cars or whenever a top-quality finish is needed, including as a topcoat over Epoxy Enamel. Surfaces must be clean, dry, and properly primed with Plascon High Build Epoxy or Acrylic Primer. It is applied in two to three coats with a spray gun, mixed in a 4:1 ratio with Plascryl Acrylic Hardener, and thinned to the right viscosity with Plascryl Thinner. After a 10-minute flash-off, the enamel can be baked at 70–80°C for 30 minutes or left to air dry, with full hardness reached in one week.

    At their stand, Plascon also featured Plascon Plascryl Thinner, an aromatic solvent blend specially formulated for the Plascryl enamel system and high-build primers. It ensures optimal flow and performance, with a specific gravity of 0.85, a flash point above 21°C, and is available in one- and five-litre packs.

    Visitors also discovered Plascon Fast Dry, a tough, fast-drying synthetic enamel that’s easy to apply on vehicles, wood, or metal, indoors or outdoors. For best results, it’s recommended to prime surfaces with Plascon Aluminium Wood Primer for new wood, Zinc Phosphate or Red Oxide Primer for steel, and Plascon Wash Primer for galvanised or light alloys.

    Plascon Nitrocellulose Paint, another highlight, is a fast air-drying cellulose lacquer made for automotive refinishing but equally useful on treated indoor furniture. It should be applied over a universal primer surfacer or sanded old paint; if applied over synthetic enamel, the enamel must be at least three months old to avoid lifting. For best spray results, it’s mixed with Plascon High Gloss Thinner to reach 18–20 seconds DIN Cup No. 4. It’s touch dry in about five minutes, handling dry in one hour, and fully dry in 48 hours.

    Completing the lineup was Plascon’s Lightweight Body filler, a two-component creamy filler with low density for maximum filling with minimal product. It spreads easily without sagging, cures quickly without shrinking, and sands smoothly, offering excellent adhesion on all substrates. Vacuum processed to reduce pinholes, it also has a tack-free finish to prevent sandpaper clogging. Mixed with 2–3% peroxide paste hardener, it should be applied on a clean surface and sanded with P60–P120 for roughing and P180–P220 for finishing. Tools should be cleaned with nitro thinner, and the putty stays shelf-stable for up to a year in a cool, dry place.

    Beyond the product showcases, the Auto Show was a true festival of speed and style. Motorsports enthusiasts were treated to adrenaline-pumping drifting displays, stunt performances, and rally car demonstrations. Eric Nuwagaba, popularly known as One Trouble from Tag Racing, highlighted how important such events are for the local motorsport scene. “Events like this are a great opportunity for us MotoGP riders to find new sponsors because the sport is expensive and needs more support to grow,” he said.

    Another well-known figure in the growing drag racing scene, West Da Industrialist, expressed his excitement about participating in the show and praised the motorsport federation for its continuous backing of the sport while also pointing out areas that could be improved to help the community grow stronger.

    Rally driver Umar Dauda from WRT Rally Team applauded the drifters and MotoGP riders for putting on a thrilling show and called on rally drivers to return the support. “Our drifters and riders are our biggest fans in motorsport, so we must also show up for them at their events and grow this community together,” he said.

  • Plascon Expands Painter Empowerment With New SACCO Offices in Masaka, Kasese, and Fort Portal

    Plascon Expands Painter Empowerment With New SACCO Offices in Masaka, Kasese, and Fort Portal

    In a landmark move to empower Uganda’s professional painting community, Plascon has officially launched three new Painters Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO) offices in Masaka, Kasese, and Fort Portal. These offices mark a new chapter in the company’s mission to uplift and support painters across the country by expanding access to financial tools, training, and community engagement structures. The Masaka SACCO Office was inaugurated on 20th May 2025, followed by the Kasese and Fort Portal offices on 21st May 2025.

    Masaka City, the historical cradle of Plascon’s painter movement, now hosts a state-of-the-art SACCO office dedicated to its vibrant painter community. With over 70 professional painters subscribing to the SACCO and a legacy that began with the very first technical training in 2006, Masaka has long been a beacon of painter excellence. The new office stands as a celebration of 19 years of continuous growth, skill development, and community strength. The launch event was officiated by Plascon’s Managing Director, Mr. Santosh Gumte, who praised the city’s enduring contribution to the painting profession. “Masaka holds a special place in our hearts. It is here that our journey of painter empowerment truly began, and this new SACCO office is both a tribute to that legacy and a promise of continued support. Our painters are not just service providers — they are professionals, and they deserve infrastructure and support to match their talent,” said Mr. Gumte

    Building on the momentum, Plascon extended its painter empowerment initiative to western Uganda, with the opening of SACCO offices in Kasese and Fort Portal on 21st May. These offices are strategically positioned to reach and support painters in underserved yet rapidly developing regions. In Kasese, the SACCO will play a pivotal role in connecting painters from across the district, including those working all the way to the Mpondwe-Bwera border. The location is particularly significant as it opens up engagement opportunities and easier access to supplies even for painters operating in parts of Eastern Congo.

    Similarly, the Fort Portal SACCO Office is expected to serve not just the city, but also the wider districts of Kabarole, Bunyangabu, Ntoroko, and Bundibugyo. This region, with its growing demand for skilled trades, now benefits from a robust support system that will enable painters to operate more professionally and collaboratively. Speaking at the dual launches, Mr. Moses Kato, Plascon’s Head of Sales, emphasized the long-term vision behind the expansion. “We’re not just opening offices; we’re building a nationwide network of skilled, confident, and connected painters. This initiative will allow painters to access financial tools, receive technical guidance, and grow as a unified community. Our aim is to see professional painting recognized not just as a trade, but as a respected career path,” he stated

    Plascon MD, Mr. Gumte, who officiated the launch in Kasese alongside Mr. Kato, highlighted Plascon’s broader commitment to developing Uganda’s human capital. “We understand that true economic development must include the artisans, the creators, the professionals who build and beautify our homes and cities. These SACCOs are engines of opportunity, hubs of innovation, and homes for the painter community,” he said.

    With these launches, Plascon continues to deepen its role as a champion of vocational excellence in Uganda. The new SACCO offices in Masaka, Kasese, and Fort Portal are symbols of trust, growth, and the transformative power of community. Through continued investment in painter welfare and development, Plascon reaffirms its commitment to a brighter, more colourful Uganda — painted by professionals, supported by purpose, and driven by partnership.

  • Plascon Uganda Sponsors Star-Studded Charity Event Featuring Abhijeet Bhattacharya

    Plascon Uganda Sponsors Star-Studded Charity Event Featuring Abhijeet Bhattacharya

    The Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) multipurpose hall was filled with excitement as hundreds of Indians from the Indian Community in Uganda and Ugandans came together for a remarkable evening of music and charity. The much-anticipated charity concert, headlined by the legendary Indian playback singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya, was a resounding success.

    Organized by the Bengali Association Uganda (BAUL) and generously sponsored by Plascon Uganda, the country’s leading paint manufacturer, this VIP event aimed to raise funds for constructing new classroom blocks at Kitante Primary School in Kampala. The concert exceeded all expectations, delivering stellar performances and generating substantial support for the cause.

    The evening commenced with a heartfelt opening address by the Indian High Commissioner to Uganda, Mr. Upender Singh Rawat. His speech set the tone for the night, emphasizing the importance of community and charity. Following this, a captivating curtain-raiser performance by singer Debjani energized the crowd, setting the stage for the main act.

    Daniel Kayongo, Brand Manager of Plascon Paints, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the Indian community in Uganda. “Plascon has a long history of backing Indian cultural events, including the annual Holi Festival, the Indian Independence day celebrations and the centenary celebration of the Indian Association in Uganda last year. We recognize and value the contributions of the Indian community to our nation and are proud to support this noble cause,” Kayongo stated.

    Dressed in an elegant navy-blue ensemble, Abhijeet Bhattacharya graced the stage to thunderous applause shortly before 10 PM. His live performance was a nostalgic journey through his greatest hits, with the audience singing along and dancing to every tune. Abhijeet’s charismatic presence and engaging interaction, including a few humorous moments in Hindi, added a personal touch that endeared him to the crowd.

    Midway through his set, fellow singer Joy, who sang a few of his songs before Abhijeet resumed his mesmerizing performance, got onto stage. The connection between the artists and the audience was great, creating an unforgettable experience for all.

  • Plascon Uganda Joins Indian Community For Charity Concert

    Plascon Uganda Joins Indian Community For Charity Concert

    Plascon Uganda, in collaboration with the Sindhi Community and Indian Association Uganda, spearheaded a groundbreaking charity concert dubbed “DIL se DESI” on May 11th, 2024, aimed at uplifting vulnerable communities in Uganda. The event, held at the Millennium Grounds in Lugogo-Kampala, displayed an extraordinary lineup of India’s finest musical talents, providing attendees with a once-in-a-lifetime entertainment experience.

    The main objective of the concert extended beyond entertainment; it was a heartfelt effort to raise funds for essential causes such as heart surgeries for children, scholarships, and the construction of a children’s cancer hospital. Plascon Uganda, as the main sponsor, reaffirmed its commitment to community welfare by pledging to be the paint partner for the new facility.

    “This concert is not just about the performances; it is more about the power of unity and compassion. Through our collective efforts, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. We’ve already sent over 150 Ugandan infants for corrective surgery in India, and we are determined to continue with our support.” said Mr. Devanand Nainani, MD of the Sindhi Community Uganda.

    Indian High Commissioner to Uganda, Mr. Upender Singh Rawat, expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts, stating, “This concert exemplifies the strong bond between India and Uganda. It is heartening to see the Indian community and partners coming together to address critical social issues and make a positive impact in Uganda.”

    Mr. Balaam Barugahara, the State Minister for Gender, Labor, and Social Development, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, saying, “Events like these re-emphasize the significance of public-private partnerships in addressing social challenges. The government applauds the Sindhi Community and the Indian Association of Uganda and their partners for their dedication to improving healthcare and education outcomes for Ugandan children and youth.”

    Daniel Kayongo, Brand Manager of Plascon Uganda, highlighted Plascon’s support for the community. “We are proud to be part of this noble cause. By collaborating with the Sindhi Community and Indian Association Uganda, we aim to not only provide financial assistance but also contribute to the construction of a children’s cancer hospital. This aligns with our commitment to community development and making a lasting impact.”

    The event, which commenced at 7:30 PM, saw attendees enjoying the mesmerizing performances by Salman Ali, Harshi Mad, Chaitali Shirvastva, and the comedic duo Chinki and Minki. In addition to the captivating performances, guests indulged in delicious Indian delicacies from stalls set up by vendors and engaged in meaningful networking opportunities.

    In attendance were prominent figures such as Sudhir Ruparelia, Chairman and Majority Stakeholder in the Ruparelia Group of Companies, and Mr. Katumba Wamala, Cabinet Minister for Works and Transport, drawing attention to the collective commitment to supporting charitable initiatives and community welfare.

  • Plascon Uganda and Buganda Kingdom partner to offer paint to the kingdom

    Plascon Uganda and Buganda Kingdom partner to offer paint to the kingdom

    The Buganda Kingdom has renewed its partnership with Kansai Plascon Uganda following the end of the first partnership contract. The three-year cooperation between the two parties was announced today by the kingdom Prime Minister Charles Peter Mayinga and Plascon’s Managing Director Santosh Gumte at a press briefing at Bulange, Mengo.
    Plascon has agreed to continue the painting of various kingdom institutional buildings with a total of 11,573 square meters painted annually. Plascon will also continue supporting various kingdom activities including the Kabaka birthday run, Coronation Celebrations, Bulungi Bwansi, and many other community development projects.
    Addressing the press, Owek. Mayiga noted that this partnership was merely a renewal of the working relationship that the Kingdom has enjoyed with the company for a while. He noted that Buganda kingdom received with gratitude a TOFAALI contribution from both Kansai Plascon staff and the company.
    “I’m grateful for this long term relationship with Plascon, the leading paint brand in Uganda. We believe the Kingdom and everyone that stays within its boundaries is going to partake of the benefits of this partnership. We have already had the company paint the Masengere building, Bulange building, Mengo coats. They’ve also agreed to support our community development projects in order to uplift the livelihoods of our people. Plascon has been and remains the Kingdom’s exclusive paint partner of choice and at all events they will be recognised as our sector partners,” clarified Oweki. Mayiga.
    Plascon’s Santosh was equally appreciative of the renewed relationship stating that it was further confirmation of the company’s status as the dominant paint brand in Uganda.
    “For Plascon, culture, social development and community upliftment are core aspects of our brand ethos. We believe that economic development must be done together with cultural preservation and social development. Our commitment to his Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda and his subjects, the people of Buganda, is that Plascon will support all initiatives that promote development, social harmony, health, and the prosperity of the kingdom and Uganda at large. It is no surprise that we have also worked with the kingdom of Tooro and the Kingdom of Bunyoro with similar goals. We are honoured by this renewed partnership and look forward to a long and successful relationship. This is a really significant occasion in the journey of Plascon. SSABASAJJA KABAKA AWANGAALE,” said Mr. Santosh.
    The contract takes immediate effect this year.

  • A Guide to the “Ekyooto ha Mpango” Festival That Celebrates Tooro Heritage

    A Guide to the “Ekyooto ha Mpango” Festival That Celebrates Tooro Heritage

    King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV of Tooro has called on his subjects especially the youth to embrace and value the Tooro culture. The King was speaking at the closing ceremony of the three-day launch of “Ekyooto ha Mpango” in the tourism City of fort portal organized by Talent Africa Group. The event was sponsored by Nile Special and Plascon Uganda.

    While addressing the gathering, King Oyo revealed that the Ekyooto (fireplace) concept for the Kingdom has been redesigned and widened to include learning and skilling opportunities, especially to cater to the youth who have been hit hard by the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and the state of joblessness.

    He added that sports activities, which are good for the body and many other tourism promotions, and culture conservation activities have also been incorporated within the Ekyooto concept.According to the King, in the ancient days while around Ekyooto, children were natured, inspired, guided and young girls and boys were groomed to become responsible citizens in the future hence the need to promote culture.

    He added that “Ekyooto” was a place where parents told their children about grandparents, past leaders, and the good practices as well as Biblical stories for a better upbringing. He challenged his subjects against letting the Tooro culture die out in pursuit of modernity.

    The Minister for Tourism, Wildlife, and antiquities Tom Butiime also noted that the “Ekyooto festival” is designed to showcase the best of the region and empower the community to tap into the power of the tourist movement in the Tooro kingdom.

    Minister Butiime explained that the challenge of reigniting tourism after the Covid-19 pandemic requires proactive actions and policies that capitalize on the natural endowment of the Tooro region and Uganda at large.

    He further maintained that the sector of Tourism had been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic, which came with travel restrictions causing the country great loss in regard to revenue collection, and that in his ministry together with the United Nations Development Program, several interventions have been designed to boost tourism in Tooro region that hosts the tourism city and “Ekyooto” festival is one of the recovery plans.

    The UNDP Resident Representative Elsie Attafuah also told the gathering that culture and tourism are powerful global economic engines that employ thousands of people thereby fostering sustainable economic progress.

    “Ekyooto” Festival will henceforth be held two weeks before the coronation date in September of every year.

    During the events, Queen mother Best Kemigisa awarded medals to participants who trekked to the peak of Mt Rwenzori, including kickboxer, Golola Moses of Uganda.

    The event attracted many people in the tourism and entertainment industries including musicians like Aziz Azion, Spice Diana, among others. A fashion event that attracted several Models including Judith Heard, former miss Uganda Sylvia Namutebi was also held during the Royal Dinner on day two of the event.

  • Plascon Gives Away First Motorcycle in ‘Paint and Win’ Promotion

    Plascon Gives Away First Motorcycle in ‘Paint and Win’ Promotion

    Joshua Mubangizi an Engineer won 2,250,000/-. Joshua is the 3rd Winner Paint and Win in the third week of the promotion.

    So far, a few bodas have been given away. Arafat A Muwonge won a home makeover, and he will go and paint his house. He took home 1 m plus the home-makeover.

    The ‘Plascon Paint and Win Season 10’ promotion, which kicked off on 1 October, is running up to 12 December 2021.

    To enter the draw, one has to buy Plascon paint worth Shs100,000 or more, get a voucher and SMS the code to 7197, and stand a chance to win Shs1million every day.

    Every year the promotion has a CSR angle to it, and for 2021, the company shall donate Shs45million worth of items – face masks, sanitizer, mattresses – to the Entebbe Grade 1 Hospital who were the first to handle Covid cases in 2019.

     

     

  • Painters tipped on good conduct

    Painters tipped on good conduct

    Did you know that there is such a thing as etiquette for Painters and Masons?  Well, neither did we until we attended a Painter’s workshop held in Hoima town on Thursday.

    Have you ever had a painter in your house so nosy they joined in on your “kabozi”? Well, they are crossing the line. How about one that gets too comfortable and sits down to watch a TV program you are enjoying? They shouldn’t be doing that either. Some are even bold enough to open your fridge and pour themselves a drink. Well, that’s unacceptable too. And mind you, your house help might not be safe to the advances of a wanton painter. If you have ever encountered such a painter,Chances are, you will not be inviting then for another job next time.

    Plascon is going around the country sensitizing painters on proper conduct while on duty. The move to sensitize painters is a way by Plascon to ensure that the people who are instrumental in the enjoyment of their product conduct themselves in a professional manner.

    Plascon recently announced the acquisition of Sadolin Paints East Africa and currently command 60% of the Paint market in Uganda.

    The training also introduced these painters to the latest trends and colour technology. The painters received certificates and some lucky ones walked away with mobile phones and other gifts in a draw that was held at the end of the training.