Bridging Nutritional Gaps with Innovation and Collaboration
Divine Organic Foods (DOF), a trailblazer in Uganda’s fruit and vegetable processing industry, has been transforming local produce into nutritious, value-added products since 2016. Specializing in pineapples, bananas, leafy greens, and carrots, the company’s operations span two strategic locations; — Ssonde – Namugongo in the central region and Lira in the north. According to Managing Director Noela Ojara, DOF’s mission was a result of a pressing national need: addressing nutrient deficiencies and post-harvest losses among smallholder farmers, particularly in Northern Uganda. Their vision is clear—create nutrient-rich food products that benefit both farmers and consumers while boosting local economies.
Overcoming Challenges and Catalysing Change
Despite their promising start, DOF faced significant hurdles. The inconsistency in quality and supply of carrots and pineapples from farmers hampered production schedules and product quality. Additionally, reliance on shared processing facilities in central Uganda caused delays and compromised food safety standards. These operational irregularities threatened their ability to meet customer demands and maintain product integrity, limiting growth opportunities.
The turning point came when Noela Ojara learned through a public call for proposals about HortiMAP—a program designed to strengthen horticultural value chains—just two days before the proposal deadline. Recognizing an opportunity, she swiftly applied, and by 2024, DOF had become a key partner in HortiMAP’s innovative initiatives aimed at promoting access to markets and competitiveness for the fresh fruits and vegetables sector. By conducting a set of collaborative workshops, the partnership fostered a participatory approach to selecting smallholder farmers, establishing sustainable systems, and integrating advanced processing technologies.
This collaboration led to transformative changes. Over 11 months, a cost-sharing grant enabled DOF to mobilize and train 200 farmers across Kayunga, Mbale, Kapchorwa, and Kween districts. These farmers received training on quality standards for fresh carrots and pineapples, aligning their produce with local, regional, and international market requirements. Furthermore, three community drying facilities, including dehydrators, were installed in Kayunga, Kween, and Mbale, significantly extending product shelf life and opening new avenues for high-value processing.
Boosting Production and Creating Opportunities
From these interventions, Divine Organic Foods now produces high-quality carrot powder suitable for the confectionery, food, and beverage sectors—an innovation born from the newly installed industrial dehydrator. The company procured 80 metric tons of carrots from 200 farmers during this period, directly benefiting 691 farmers and creating employment for transporters and support staff at processing sites. The enhanced farmer capacity and improved product shelf life have resulted in increased production, higher sales, and a stronger market presence.
Sustaining Growth and Expanding Impact
Building on this momentum, DOF plans to continue supporting farmer groups by reinforcing internal governance, promoting adherence to operational standards, and expanding market access. Their future vision includes developing innovative nutritious products like carrot baby meals, aiming to contribute to Uganda’s social and economic transformation through healthier populations and vibrant local industries.
Divine Organic Foods has catalysed a remarkable transformation for fruits and vegetables in the areas they operate. By strengthening the capacity of smallholder farmers, improving processing technologies, and expanding market access, this collaboration is elevating the quality and sustainability of local produce and driving economic growth and nutritional well-being. As DOF continues to innovate and scale their efforts, they exemplify how strategic alliances can foster resilient, inclusive, and health-focused agricultural development in Uganda.