DFCU Bank, in partnership with Vision Group, KLM, the Embassy of the Netherlands in Uganda, and Koudjis, has officially launched the 11th edition of the Best Farmers Competition under the theme “Value Addition with Focus on Large-Scale Farmers”.
The competition was unveiled at Prime Agro Farm Ltd in Zirobwe, Luwero District—home to Sebastian Ruta Ngabwa, the winner of the 2023 edition.
Over the years, the Best Farmers Competition has played a significant role in boosting agricultural productivity across the country. This year’s edition emphasises value addition, aiming to enhance the quality and marketability of agricultural produce.
Farmers from across the various sub-regions will showcase innovations in processing, packaging, and branding, demonstrating how value addition can increase profitability. The initiative also promotes proper post-harvest handling to help farmers maximise returns.
Speaking at the launch, Mathias Jumba, Head of Integrated Channels at DFCU Bank, said, “The Best Farmers Competition celebrates Uganda’s most impactful farmers, inspiring many more to transform agriculture from a means of survival to a path toward sustainable prosperity. For over 60 years, DFCU has supported farmers and agribusinesses by bridging financing gaps and strengthening value chains.”
He added that DFCU Bank has empowered thousands of farmers through agricultural loans and asset financing, providing them with the capital and tools needed to scale operations and access markets.
Alex Madolo, Sector Head, Agriculture at DFCU Bank, noted: “We are privileged to witness the transformation in farmers’ lives brought about by improved access to finance and training. At dfcu, we are more than a financial institution—we are a committed partner in the growth and success of Uganda’s agricultural sector.”
Madolo also praised the long-standing commitment of the initiative’s partners: “Vision Group, the Embassy of the Netherlands, KLM, and Koudjis have remained dedicated to this transformative journey, impacting farmers, their families, and communities for over a decade.”
Gervase Ndyanabo, Deputy Managing Director at Vision Group, announced the introduction of new competition categories for 2025, including Large-Scale Farmers, Small and Medium-Scale Farmers, and Farmer Cooperatives, to broaden participation and recognise excellence across different farming levels.
Through the DFCU Foundation, DFCU Bank continues to make significant contributions toward the growth of Uganda’s agricultural sector, driving meaningful change and empowering agribusinesses nationwide.
Key achievements include:
Support to 1,281 agribusiness enterprises through a combination of debt financing and capacity-building programs aimed at enhancing productivity and operational efficiency. Acceleration support for 490 enterprises, enabling them to scale and sustain growth through tailored mentorship and business development interventions.
A 52% women inclusion rate achieved since 2018, underscoring the Foundation’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women in agribusiness. A total outreach of 59,000 beneficiaries, demonstrating a far-reaching impact on the sector through training, advisory services, and financial inclusion.
Facilitation of over $22 million in business linkages, fostering stronger market access, trade opportunities, and commercial partnerships. Connection of over 5,000 enterprises to financial services, including access to credit and banking solutions, helping drive growth and resilience among agribusinesses.
