Lillian Ogwang showing her flowering coffee to the UCDA Board Chairperson, Dr. Charles Mugoya.
Lillian Ogwang, a proud member of the Loro Coffee Cooperative Society, has emerged as a beacon of success in coffee farming, thanks to her determination, support from Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), and her belief in the potential of coffee cultivation.
Her journey from maize production to becoming a successful coffee farmer is a testament to the transformative impact of informed decision-making and strategic support.
In 2020, Ms. Ogwang ventured into coffee farming with support from UCDA, establishing a 3-acre coffee garden in Lira.
Previously engaged in maize production, which proved less profitable, she discovered the benefits of coffee during her time in Masaka, where she resided for over 11 years.
Despite initial doubts about coffee’s viability in Lira, the COVID-19 lockdown became a turning point as UCDA’s extension worker sensitised and motivated her to embrace coffee production.
Ms. Ogwang’s diligence and commitment bore fruit when she commenced harvesting coffee in January 2024. With an estimated harvest of over 700kg, she found joy in the profitability of coffee, fetching prices ranging from UGX 3,000 to UGX 4,000 per kilogram of Kiboko (dry cherries).
Her ambition now extends to expanding her coffee garden to 10 acres, a testament to her vision and confidence in coffee farming’s potential.
Her success has not been limited to personal gains. Ms. Ogwang actively mobilises fellow farmers within her cooperative and community to adopt coffee farming, citing its superior profitability compared to other crops in the region.
This grassroots advocacy is driving a positive shift towards coffee cultivation, benefiting not just individual farmers but also contributing to the economic growth of the community.
Despite her achievements, Ms. Ogwang faces challenges typical of agricultural ventures, such as pest and disease management and limited access to facilities in her district that would add value to her coffee.
However, her cooperative is taking strides towards establishing a coffee store and milling plant, although power sources remain a concern.
In recognition of her dedication and success, the Managing Director of UCDA has pledged support for Ms. Ogwang’s ambition to expand her coffee gardens to 10 acres, with a promise of a coffee mill upon fulfillment of her plan.
This commitment not only acknowledges her achievements but also positions her as a lead coffee farmer in the district, poised to champion and inspire others in coffee production.
Ms. Lillian Ogwang’s story is a testament to the power of informed decision-making, perseverance, and strategic support in transforming agricultural landscapes and empowering farmers towards sustainable success.
Credit: UCDA
