Once in Bukhaboyo Village, in the heart of Eastern Uganda’s Bulambuli District, a small group of 30 farmers dared to dream beyond their modest plots. Facing the harsh realities of limited access to quality inputs, finance, and markets, these farmers—mainly of maize, rice, and a few vegetables—struggled to make ends meet. They grew their crops on individual plots, each about half an acre, earning meager profits that barely covered family needs. Their cabbage yielded 1,000 heads per season, and tomatoes brought in around UGX 1 million (USD 273) per season—yet high costs, pests, diseases, and poor market access often turned would be profits into losses.

The Turning Point: Embracing Change

Life changed in February 2022 when the Cheptui Farmers Cluster was introduced to the HortiMAP team, by their sub-county agricultural officer. This encounter ignited a new hope when they learnt that HortiMAP aimed to address challenges such as limited knowledge and skills in crop management, restricted access to good quality agricultural inputs, markets, and finance. through HortiMAP, they received capacity-building trainings in agronomy, which helped them gain knowledge and skills in managing their crops. They also gained better access to input and output markets, including linkages to financial. These efforts helped them to address their gaps and increase their incomes.

From Struggling Farmers to Cooperative Champions

With newfound knowledge and support, the farmers took bold steps. With TechnoServe’s support, they linked up with Sebei SACCO, a local financial institution, and secured a loan of UGX 14,000,000 (USD 3,835) in May 2024. This capital empowered them to expand their horticultural activities significantly. They purchased good-quality and high-yielding seed varieties and good-quality pesticides. They also employed workers to help them expand their farm from 0.5 acres to one acre

Transformative Achievements

Today, the Cheptui Farmers Cluster has blossomed into a thriving cooperative of 562 members—318 women, 242 men, and 207 youth divided into 13 active groups. They now cultivate tomatoes, cabbage, and onions across one-acre plots per member. The farmers harvest approximately 100 boxes of tomatoes per season, each box weighing 6 basins of 35kg, sold at UGX 150,000 (USD 41) per box. Their total seasonal sales FOR tomatoes are approximately UGX 15,000,000 (USD 4,109) with profits of UGX 8,000,000 – UGX 10,000,000 (USD 2,191 – USD 2,739). The cabbage they grow on half an acre, yields and average of 2,750 heads per harvest, each head sold at UGX 1,000 each, generating nearly UGX 2,750,000 (USD 753) in income and close to UGX 1,950,000 (USD 534) in profit.

Market Access and Group Strength

By bulk-selling to vendors in Mbale, and traders from the capital city, Kampala, and neighboring countries like Sudan, the farmers minimized transportation damages and costs while securing better prices. This collective approach boosted their income and stability, encouraging more community members to join. The cooperative is now in the final stages of registration as a cooperative, with HortiMAP and local authorities providing continuous capacity building in leadership, governance, marketing, and financial management.

Building a Sustainable Future

In May 2023, the cooperative began bulk selling over 800 boxes of tomatoes per season and 84 tons of cabbage across three seasons annually. They established a dedicated agro-input shop in February 2025, financed by member shares and supported by partners. This shop provides farmers with easy access to quality inputs, reducing transport costs and increasing productivity on their farms.

Improving Livelihoods and Planning Ahead

Thanks to increased incomes, many farmers now afford better education for their children, enjoy balanced diets, and have built improved homes. Some have diversified into poultry and animal husbandry, using manure for soil health. Looking ahead, they plan to construct a storage facility within two years, expand the agro-input shop, and grow their membership to 2,000 within five years. Their ultimate goal is to empower more community members, create jobs, and sustain their success.

A Bright Future Rooted in Unity and Innovation

The Cheptui Farmers Cluster’s story shows how collaboration, knowledge, and strategic support can turn challenges into opportunities. With dedication and the support of partners like TechnoServe through HortiMAP, these farmers are growing crops and cultivating a brighter future for their community.