The Ham Group of Companies is a leading Ugandan-based multinational industrial conglomerate, founded by visionary entrepreneur Dr. Hamis Kiggundu in 2005. Headquartered at the iconic White House, the company has grown to become one of East Africa’s largest conglomerates, employing more than 7,000 people across its diversified operations. The Ham Group has established a strong footprint in real estate, agribusiness, finance, logistics, education, entertainment, and industrial sectors, positioning itself as a driver of economic growth and innovation in Uganda and beyond.
History and Growth
Dr. Hamis Kiggundu laid the foundation for the Ham Group by leveraging his early exposure to business through his father, Hajji Segawa, who ran a textile shop. During school holidays, Hamis started his first business with financial support from his father, gaining firsthand experience in trading and entrepreneurship. This early exposure laid the groundwork for his later ventures into real estate, where he began buying and selling land and properties across Kampala.
In 2009, Ham Enterprises (U) Ltd was formally established, marking a new era for the conglomerate. The company’s first major real estate project was Ham Towers, completed in 2010, which introduced Kampala to a modern mixed-use commercial and residential complex. Shortly after, Ham Shopping Mall was developed within 18 months, significantly boosting rental income and providing the group with leverage for further bank financing.
By 2021, the Ham Group had expanded into large-scale industrialization, focusing on agro-processing. The landmark Integrated Agro-Processing Industrial Plant (IAIP) at Akright City, a US$156 million project, was launched to add value to Uganda’s agricultural products, strengthen local supply chains, and contribute to national economic growth.
Subsidiaries and Ventures
The Ham Group has developed a diversified portfolio of subsidiary companies, each targeting strategic sectors of the Ugandan and international market. As of June 2024, these include:
- Ham Enterprises Limited: The parent company, focusing on real estate and property development.
- Ham Palm Villas: Premium residential real estate along the Entebbe–Kampala Expressway.
- Ham International: An international company with operations in Manchester and logistics ventures in the US.
- Ham International Express Logistics: Providing cross-border and domestic logistics services, particularly in Texas, US.
- Hamz Link: An IT-focused business delivering technology solutions in Kampala.
- Ham Agro-Processing Industries: Specialized in agro-processing and agricultural value addition, serving both local and export markets.
- Hana International School Limited: Offering quality education and fostering local talent in Nsangi, Uganda.
- Hamz International Real Estate LLC: Real estate operations in Dubai.
- Ham Agro Bank Limited: Banking solutions tailored to the agro-processing sector.
- Ham Cinemax: A cinema and entertainment venture offering leisure and cultural experiences in Kampala.
- Kiggs International Uganda Ltd & Kiham Enterprises Ltd: Supporting diverse commercial and industrial operations within Uganda.
Sectors of Operation
The Ham Group operates across multiple sectors, contributing significantly to Uganda’s economic development:
- Real Estate and Property Development: From Ham Towers and Ham Palm Villas to large-scale residential and commercial developments, the group has set benchmarks in Uganda’s property market.
- Agribusiness and Agro-Processing: With Ham Agro-Processing Industries and the IAIP, the group adds value to agricultural products, strengthens supply chains, and promotes export-ready produce.
- Logistics and Transportation: Through Ham International Express Logistics, the group ensures efficient transportation, warehousing, and cross-border trade solutions.
- Education: Hana International School exemplifies the group’s commitment to nurturing Uganda’s next generation of leaders.
- Finance and Banking: Ham Agro Bank Limited provides tailored financial solutions to agribusinesses and industrial clients.
- Construction and Industrial Development: The group manages large-scale construction projects and industrial plants that contribute to Uganda’s infrastructure growth.
- Sports and Entertainment: Ham Cinemax offers modern entertainment experiences, expanding cultural and recreational offerings in Kampala.
- General Merchandise and Trading: The group continues to maintain a presence in trading, building on its historical roots in textile and garment trading.
International Presence and Vision
The Ham Group has extended its reach beyond Uganda, with offices and subsidiaries in Manchester, Texas, and Dubai, reinforcing its multinational industrial footprint. By combining strategic real estate development, agro-processing innovation, financial services, and international logistics, the Ham Group continues to expand its operations and influence across East Africa and the global market.
Dr. Hamis Kiggundu’s vision is to create sustainable industries that empower local communities, generate employment, and enhance Uganda’s economic competitiveness. The Ham Group’s integrated approach—from education and banking to industrial processing and logistics—demonstrates its role as a cornerstone of Uganda’s modern economy.
In conclusion, the Ham Group of Companies stands as a testament to visionary entrepreneurship, resilience, and diversification. With over 7,000 employees, a growing international presence, and a commitment to innovation, the group exemplifies how private enterprise can transform economies, create jobs, and foster sustainable development.