A Mother’s Determination Sparks a Transformation
Nnalongo Nakku Prossy, a resident of Kiwenda zone, Busukuma, Wakiso District, is a resilient mother of three daughters. Her unwavering spirit turned a modest horticulture stall into a flourishing enterprise. Starting with 100,000 UGX borrowed from her parents and two baskets of tomatoes and onions, her business faced a crossroads—struggling with limited capital and fierce competition. Yet, she refused to give up the struggling business.
With TechnoServe’s HortiMAP trainings and linkages to farmers and suppliers, Nnalongo’s business took a remarkable turn. “Despite struggles, I knew I had to keep going,” she recalls. Today, her days begin with purpose—preparing breakfast for her children, packing drinks for her baby, and heading to her stall ready to serve her community.
A Routine of Care and Precision
Upon arriving at her stall, Nnalongo meticulously checks her setup, re-organizing displays and dusting off her fresh produce. Her keen eye for presentation transforms her small space into an inviting market spot. “I always make sure everything looks appealing,” she says, smiling. Her dedication to cleanliness, product quality, and excellent customer care has begun to draw more buyers and foster strong relationships with farmers and vendors alike.
Learning and Growing Through Support
Having joined the HortiMAP program in October 2022, Nalongo received comprehensive training in merchandising, customer service, record keeping, supply chain management, and food safety practices. Applying these new skills, Nnalongo improved her product display, maintained personal hygiene, and upheld market sanitation standards.
Her efforts paid off with increased sales from UGX 50,000 (USD 13) to 550,000 (USD 150) sales per week in a two year period, better customer loyalty, and a sense of confidence. “Adapting attractive display techniques and handling products properly has reboosted my business,” she shares, showing a fresh display of her vegetables and fruits.
A Bright Future in Sight
Nnalongo’s aspirations reach beyond her current stall. She dreams of becoming a leading supplier of fruits and vegetables to sub-stalls in her community—Nabitalo village—supporting her family’s needs and her children’s education. Her journey is supported by collaborations with local government officials, including district and market authorities, who oversee health, sanitation, and compliance standards, ensuring her business remains sustainable and safe.
Empowered and Hopeful
Nnalaong’s story exemplifies how determination can overcome challenges and unlock potential. Her success is a testament to the empowering impact, especially for women vendors striving to grow their livelihoods, improve their families’ lives, and contribute to their communities. “With the right skills and support, I can achieve anything,” Nnalongo affirms, her eyes shining with optimism for what lies ahead.