Meridah Nandudu, a visionary in Uganda’s coffee industry, has empowered women by offering higher prices for coffee beans delivered by female growers. This strategy led to a significant increase in women participating in coffee farming, with over 600 women now part of Nandudu’s business group. These women play a crucial role in the coffee value chain, from planting to harvesting, ensuring the success of the business.
Uganda, the second-largest coffee producer in Africa, exported over 6 million bags of coffee in a year, generating substantial revenue. Nandudu’s efforts have not only empowered women but also contributed to reducing gender-based violence in communities where coffee farming is a way of life. The increase in earnings has had a positive impact on families, leading to improved livelihoods and economic independence for women.
Nandudu’s company, Bayaaya Specialty Coffee, stands out for its focus on women farmers and initiatives such as cooperative savings societies. By paying women an extra premium for their coffee beans, Nandudu has attracted more women to join the company, fostering a sense of inclusivity and empowerment among female coffee growers.
Juliet Kwaga, one of the women in Nandudu’s group, shares how the coffee business has transformed her life, granting her financial independence and the ability to provide for her family. Through Nandudu’s efforts, women like Kwaga have gained confidence and autonomy in decision-making, challenging traditional gender roles within their households.
While coffee production has historically been male-dominated, the increasing participation of women in the industry is a sign of progress. Nandudu’s goal of exporting coffee beans reflects a shift towards greater gender equality and economic opportunities for women in Uganda. With more women engaging in coffee farming as a business, the industry is witnessing a positive transformation that benefits both individuals and communities.
As Uganda’s coffee sector evolves, the contributions of women are becoming increasingly recognized and valued. Nandudu’s pioneering efforts have not only empowered women economically but also paved the way for a more inclusive and sustainable coffee industry in the country. By prioritizing the needs and voices of women in coffee farming, Nandudu is driving positive change and setting an example for the future of the industry.
