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Sustainable cocoa and honey in Uganda

Demand for honey and cocoa greater than production

The population in Uganda is growing rapidly and is likely to triple by 2050. The demand for food is high and agriculture is a fundamental economic sector. Furthermore, around two thirds of the population are employed in the agricultural sector. In addition to coffee, tea, fruits and vegetables, the cultivation of cocoa and honey is particularly important, as the market is undersupplied in both areas. The demand is greater than the production.

Swisscontact's “Dynamic Markets – Sustainable Cocoa and Honey” project supports cocoa farmers and beekeepers on many levels in order to increase their production. They receive the necessary knowledge and basic skills for a successfull cultivation and processing. This enables them to significantly increase their production volumes in and their product quality of sustainable cacoa and honey. At the same time, the farmers are supported in selling their products as members of farmers' organizations. They build stable relationships with buyers and access new markets. By successfully integrating into the market system, they earn a living wage and improve their living situation and that of their families.

Small farmers in Uganda during cultivation

Fertile soils and rain

In Uganda conditions for agriculture are favorable. The country offers great potential, with 80% of exports coming from agriculture (e.g. coffee, tobacco, cotton, tea).
The soil is fertile almost all over the country, it rains regularly and the temperatures allow agricultural activities all year round.

Women and young people in particular are involved in the production of sustainable cocoa in order to ensure the food security of entire households.

Access to international markets as a target

In addition to quantity, the main aim is to increase the quality of products. Both are required to achieve international certification standards (e.g. Fairtrade, etc.). Such certification enables access to regional and international markets and thus further increases sales.

Cocoa farmer feeds data into digital traceability system.

Transparency through digitalization

Transparency in the production chain is required for certification and access to international markets. A digital traceability system is being set up to provide this transparency.

Project shows visible results in figures.

Impressive results

The project is showing impressive results and
has already improved the income situation
of over 11,000 people directly and
and over 14,000 people indirectly.

Smallholder farmers and beekeepers in Uganda receive knowledge and skills for the successful production of sustainable cocoa and honey. This enables them to significantly increase production volumes and product quality. This in turn, combined with a digital traceability system, gives them access to regional and international markets and secures their income.

Happel Foundation | Swisscontact

The Happel Foundation is a partner of Swisscontact for its project in Uganda to build value chains for cocoa and honey and thus sustainably improve the living conditions of smallholder farmers and beekeepers.