Nyakwanzi Coffee Cooperative – Transforming Rural Livelihoods in Kyenjojo District.

In Kyenjojo District, the Nyakwanzi Multipurpose Cooperative stands as a compelling example of how organized smallholder farmers can transition from subsistence to competitive agribusiness. Founded in 2017 by just 24 members, the cooperative initially focused on growing cereals and pulses, operating with limited market access and low returns.

Over time and with Jese support building their capacity in climate smart agriculture and gender transformative approaches, the group made a strategic shift to perennial crops—particularly coffee and cocoa—unlocking higher-value opportunities and more stable incomes. This transition catalyzed rapid growth, with membership expanding to 1,200 farmers, reflecting both increased trust and demonstrated economic benefits.

A major milestone in the cooperative’s journey was the recent support from the Government of Uganda, which provided a grant of over UGX 600 million for the establishment of a storage facility and coffee hulling plant. This investment  significantly strengthened post-harvest handling, reduced losses, and enabled value addition at the local level.

Through JESE support and linkages with financial financial institutions like Opportunity bank and Centenary bank the cooperative’s ability to build partnerships with private sector actors has sporadically grown. Through these linkages, members now access essential services such as agricultural inputs and financial products. Notably, Centenary Bank in the last 2 years  extended close to  UGX 500 million in agricultural loans to cooperative members, enabling farmers to invest in production, improve yields, and expand their enterprises.

The results are visible: improved productivity, stronger market positioning, and increased household incomes. Collective marketing has enhanced bargaining power, while access to finance and inputs has accelerated farm-level transformation. Currently, the cooperative plans to grow its membership to 3,500 farmers, and also increase its share capital to UGX 500M in the next 5 years and as well as acquire a fair trade certificate. 

Nyakwanzi Multipurpose Cooperative’s journey illustrates the power of farmer organization, strategic investment, and partnerships in driving rural economic transformation. With clear growth ambitions and a strong institutional base, the cooperative is well-positioned to evolve into a leading agribusiness enterprise, delivering sustained income improvements for thousands of smallholder farmers in Kyenjojo and beyond.