Social Issue

Coffee cultivation is the lifeblood of Uganda’s agricultural economy, providing income for millions of smallholder farmers. However, despite being one of Africa’s leading coffee producers, the farmers who grow this valuable crop often face significant challenges that hinder their ability to achieve sustainable livelihoods. These challenges include unreliable market access, limited support to improve coffee quality, and barriers to obtaining certifications allowing them to earn premium prices.

Our Response

Netri provided a loan to JKCC for the purchase and processing of coffee. Founded in 2017 and formally established in 2019, JKCC sources coffee directly from farmers across 24 districts in Uganda. It currently works with over 7,000 farmers, organized through the nonprofit association COCEWEFA.

Farmers affiliated with COCEWEFA have tripled their incomes by partnering with JKCC, thanks to initiatives like certification programs that grant access to premium prices. In 2023, JKCC facilitated certification for 1,670 farmers and is pursuing Organic and Rainforest Alliance certifications, which offer premiums of 8–12%. The goal is to certify 50% of its farmers within two years and nearly 100% within five.

JKCC also provides free training based on UCDA guidelines, promotes planting new coffee trees, and supports farmer-managed nurseries that supply high-quality seedlings at low cost. By the end of 2023, 32% of registered farmers had already planted new coffee plants.

Expected Social Impact

By investing in JKCC, Netri is supporting its efforts to improve the lives of smallholder coffee farmers in Uganda through better market access, certifications that provide price premiums, and the promotion of sustainable farming practices. By enhancing financial access and technical training, farmers are encouraged to invest in their farms. By engaging youth in coffee cultivation, JKCC is not only securing the future of the coffee industry but also creating meaningful employment opportunities for Uganda’s young population.