Farming is not just a livelihood but a lifeline, and Dfcu Bank is driving transformation. With development finance at its core, the bank remains committed to improving lives, empowering businesses, and strengthening communities across Uganda.
This dedication is evident through its strategic partnership with the Agribusiness Development Centre (ADC), an initiative designed to unlock the full potential of smallholder farmers, cooperatives, and SMEs.
The recently published ADC Impact Report for 2022/2023 highlights Dfcu Bank’s efforts in fostering growth, sustainability, and resilience in Uganda’s agricultural sector, ensuring that every intervention delivers tangible results.
Rubanga Cooperative Society stands as a testament to the impact of ADC’s capacity-building programs.
Before partnering with ADC, the cooperative struggled with market access, financial constraints, and limited business expertise.
However, through ADC’s comprehensive training in governance, marketing, and financial management, Rubanga turned its fortunes around.
As a result, the cooperative secured over USD 2.7 million in export contracts, expanded processing capabilities, and increased prices by 38% through Fair Trade Certification.
This transformation has positively impacted over 9,000 farmers, improving their financial stability and livelihoods.
The success of Rubanga Cooperative is just one of many. Over the past year, ADC has supported 885 enterprises and 27,079 smallholder farmers through tailored programs focused on governance, financial literacy, marketing, innovation, coaching, mentorship, and climate-smart agriculture.
By equipping participants with the necessary tools to improve productivity, enhance market access, and mitigate risks, ADC is driving sustainable progress in Uganda’s agribusiness sector.
Women and youth have been key beneficiaries of ADC’s initiatives.
In 2023, 51.7% of ADC trainees were women, surpassing the 40% target, with 61.8% of them assuming leadership roles.
Additionally, 48.1% of youth participants transitioned into management positions, fostering a new generation of agribusiness leaders.
Financial inclusion remains a core focus of ADC’s mission. In collaboration with the dfcu Foundation, ADC facilitated access to formal banking services for 84 enterprises and 2,177 smallholder farmers.
This initiative has enhanced financial literacy and enabled farmers and SMEs to access critical working capital, leading to an additional income of Shs 6.5 billion—a 17.2% increase compared to baseline figures.
ADC has also played a significant role in job creation, facilitating 554 new jobs in 2022/2023, with a long-term target of 1,114. By integrating financial education with business development, ADC is fostering a thriving ecosystem where enterprises can scale, innovate, and create employment opportunities.
Strategic partnerships with organizations like ABI Development, SEATINI, and GOPA Worldwide Consultants have further amplified ADC’s impact.
Through initiatives such as the Climate Smart Agriculture Project and the Business Accelerator Program, ADC is equipping farmers and enterprises with climate-resilient strategies and business growth opportunities.
A notable success story is Grace Akatuha, founder of Kikazi Agri Enterprises.
“The training I received from ADC helped me formalize my business and improve my financial management. Today, I not only run a registered company but also mentor other women entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the business landscape,” Akatuha shares.
Dfcu Bank remains committed to driving agricultural sustainability, investing USD 173,000 in the Agricultural Exchange Programme and securing USD 205,000 in funding. With 14,881 learners engaged and 270 enterprises added to the Business Accelerator Program, ADC continues to be a catalyst for change.
