The Ham Group of Companies is a Uganda-based, privately owned multinational conglomerate founded by visionary entrepreneur Dr. Hamis Kiggundu. With its official headquarters at The White House, the Ham Group has grown into one of East Africa’s largest industrial conglomerates, employing more than 7,000 people across diverse sectors. The Group’s impressive portfolio spans real estate, agribusiness, logistics, education, finance, entertainment, and more, reflecting Dr. Kiggundu’s commitment to industrialization and economic growth in Uganda.
History and Founding
The Ham Group was established in 2005 by Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, who started his business journey during school holidays, drawing inspiration and capital from his father, Hajji Segawa, a seasoned textile entrepreneur. Dr. Kiggundu initially focused on garment trading, gaining foundational business skills in retail and customer service. His early ventures gradually expanded into real estate, where he began buying and selling land and properties, setting the stage for the Ham Group’s broader industrial ambitions.
In 2009, Dr. Kiggundu founded Ham Enterprises (U) Ltd, marking the Group’s official entry into commercial property development. The company’s first landmark project, Ham Towers in Kampala, was completed in 2010, followed by the Ham Shopping Mall, completed within 18 months. These projects not only boosted the Group’s rental income but also enhanced its credibility with financial institutions, enabling access to bank financing for future ventures.
By 2021, the Ham Group had expanded into large-scale industrialization, particularly in agro-processing, with projects designed to add value to Uganda’s agricultural sector. A flagship project in this venture is the US$156 million Integrated Agro-Processing Industrial Plant (IAIP) at Akright City, aimed at transforming raw agricultural produce into processed goods for both domestic and international markets.
Subsidiaries of the Ham Group
As of June 2024, the Ham Group boasts a broad array of subsidiaries across multiple industries:
- Ham Enterprises Limited: The parent company, specializing in real estate and property development, responsible for commercial and residential projects.
- Ham Palm Villas: Luxury real estate development along the Entebbe–Kampala Expressway.
- Ham International: A multinational company with operations in Manchester, UK, and logistics services globally.
- Ham International Express Logistics: Based in Texas, US, this subsidiary facilitates international transport and supply chain management.
- Hamz Link: A technology and information systems company based in Kampala, Uganda.
- Ham Agro-Processing Industries: A leading agribusiness enterprise, focusing on processing agricultural products for value addition.
- Hana International School Limited: An educational institution providing quality learning in Nsangi, Uganda.
- Hamz International Real Estate LLC: Dubai-based real estate venture, expanding the Group’s international footprint.
- Ham Agro Bank Limited: A financial institution in Kampala serving agro-processing and agribusiness sectors, offering tailored banking solutions.
- Ham Cinemax-Kampala: The Group’s entertainment and cinema business, catering to urban entertainment needs.
- Kiggs International Uganda Ltd: A diversified business arm located in Kampala.
- Kiham Enterprises Ltd: Operating in various commercial sectors within Uganda.
Key Ventures and Achievements
The Ham Group has built a reputation for diversification and strategic investments. Notable ventures include:
- Ham Towers: A mixed-use commercial and residential complex in Kampala, integrating modern office spaces, retail outlets, and residential apartments.
- Ham Palm Villas: Premium residential housing that showcases the Group’s expertise in luxury real estate development.
- Ham Agro-Processing Industries: Focused on industrial-scale agro-processing, adding value to Uganda’s key crops such as maize, coffee, and horticultural products.
- Hana International School: Promoting quality education, the school contributes to human capital development.
- Ham Cinemax: Providing a hub for entertainment and cultural activities, enhancing the local creative industry.
- Ham Agro Bank Limited: Offering banking solutions for agribusiness, ensuring that farmers and processors access financial services tailored to their needs.
Sectors of Operation
The Ham Group of Companies operates across multiple sectors:
- Real Estate and Property Development: Including commercial towers, shopping malls, and residential estates.
- Agribusiness and Agro-Processing: Enhancing value addition in Uganda’s agricultural sector.
- Logistics and Transportation: Through international and regional freight services.
- Education: Operating schools and learning institutions under the Hana International School brand.
- Finance and Banking: Tailored banking services through Ham Agro Bank Limited.
- Construction: Leading projects in industrial and residential infrastructure.
- Sports and Entertainment: Providing leisure, cinema, and cultural engagement through Ham Cinemax.
- General Merchandise: Diverse trade in local and international markets.
Impact and Significance
With over 7,000 employees, the Ham Group is one of the largest job creators in East Africa, contributing significantly to Uganda’s economy. Its investments in industrialization and agro-processing have positioned the country as a competitive player in East Africa’s agribusiness sector. The Group’s commitment to education, finance, and entertainment demonstrates a holistic approach to business, encompassing economic, social, and cultural development.
By maintaining a multi-sectoral presence, the Ham Group has strengthened Uganda’s industrial base, created sustainable employment opportunities, and positioned itself as a leading conglomerate in East Africa, with a growing international footprint.
