Overview

In 2016 we provided our partners with funds for equipment to establish a coffee cooperative on Mt Elgon, near Mbale, in Uganda. As a result, four coffee processing centres and a drying centre were established and the first full crop was harvested with great results – fully engaged farmers, a high-quality crop with a better than expected yield and evidence of a viable business model. This project builds on the success of 2016 and will provide improved drying structures and process, improvements to two washing stations, together with further training for farmers on organic cultivation principles. The project will assist 1500 registered farmers with another 7,500 family members as indirect beneficiaries.

Why support this

Our partners have worked in development in this area for over a decade and are keen to work with farmers to move them past a hand-out model to an empowerment frame of mind. The project is designed to be a sustainable and profitable business. Having seen the excellent results of 2016 the farmers have embraced the new techniques and there is an appetite amongst the farming community to change and improve. Our partners, the farmers and the local government are working collaboratively as they can all see the how this will develop the area.

Expected Life Change

• Farmers gain new skills and a strong support network.
• A good yield and fair price improves the financial situation of farmers, allowing them to buy more food during the “hungry season”.
• The local community learn it is possible to operate business in a fair and transparent manner and still be profitable.