Investment in production technology and productivity of sugar manufacturing factories in Uganda. Case study: Lugazi Sugar Corporation LTD

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between investment in technology and the productivity of manufacturing firms in Uganda. The dimensions of the independent variable include; production processes, production chemicals and production machinery whereas the dependent variables are; output, quality and lead time. The study had three objectives; To examine the relationship between production processes and sugar productivity of a sugar manufacturing industry, to assess the relationship between production chemicals and sugar productivity of a sugar manufacturing industry and to evaluate the relation between production machinery and sugar productivity of a sugar manufacturing industry. The study used a case study research design and also adopted a quantitative approach for the sample size for the study was determined by the Krejcie and Morgan (1970) table which obtained a sample size 52 respondents and closed ended questionnaires were used to collect data. The study findings revealed that; all sugar processes impact on the productivity of sugar, consistent application of production chemicals enhances quality sugar production, and that application of new technology for evaporation intended to improve the capacity of energy saving improves on productivity. It can be concluded from the findings that there is a positive relationship between investment in production technology and the productivity of sugar manufacturing factories. The researcher recommends that the organization should be dynamic in its process to adapt to changes in technology.