Social Issue

The western part of Uganda has an ideal climate for growing cocoa, yet smallholder farmers face many challenges in making the most of it. Most cultivate between one and five acres and depend on cocoa as their main source of income. However, price volatility, limited access to formal markets, and the lack of proper processing facilities often prevent them from earning a fair return. At the same time, the high cost and complexity of obtaining certifications make it difficult for farmers to reach premium markets and secure better prices for their crops.

Our Response

Netri has provided a loan to Latitude, a Ugandan social enterprise and certified B Corporation established in 2017. Latitude’s mission is to improve the livelihoods of smallholder cocoa farmers while positioning Uganda as a recognised source of high-quality cocoa. 

The company produces fine organic cocoa and premium chocolate, working directly with farmers to build an ethical and transparent supply chain that ensures fair prices and sustainable practices.The company operates a network of over 40 rural collection points, purchasing fresh cocoa (wet beans) from farmers on a cash-on-delivery basis at a premium. The cocoa is then processed at Latitude’s facilities in Kasese, Kampala, and Jinja, where the company maintains strict traceability and organic certification standards. Latitude sells to leading international buyers, and other specialty offtakers of high-quality organic cocoa.

In addition to exporting cocoa, Latitude produces artisanal chocolate under its own brand in Kampala. Although this represents a smaller share of sales (around 7% in 2024/2025 to date), it plays a strategic role in building brand visibility and reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability and local value addition.

Expected Social Impact

Latitude currently works with more than 7,000 farmers (48% women) across western Uganda. Latitude supports farmers by covering the full cost of organic certification, a costly process that enables them to sell their cocoa at significantly better prices, improving household incomes and long-term resilience. Ugandan cocoa is considered high quality, fetching premium prices compared to global cocoa prices. As a result, Latitude pays an average price to the producer that has historically been 50% higher than the prices paid in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. Farmers typically produce around 600 kg per acre, which historically has represented an income of approximately $1,500 per acre.