Inspire Africa Group Unveils Coffee Marathon with Shs 2bn Target to Support Rural Women in Coffee Value Chain

The inaugural Coffee with a Cause dinner successfully raised over Shs 50 million to empower women in Uganda’s coffee sector.

Held at Inspire Africa Group (IAG) offices in Kampala, the fundraising event brought together coffee enthusiasts, industry leaders, businesspeople, and philanthropists, all rallying behind rural women in the coffee value chain.

The dinner was part of the buildup to the Coffee Marathon, scheduled for May 24 in Ntungamo, with a target of raising Shs 2 billion to support women-led SACCOs in the coffee industry.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Mineral Development, Phiona Nyamutoro, emphasized the crucial role women play in Uganda’s economic growth, particularly in the coffee sector.

“I come from a region that grows coffee—West Nile, especially Zombo District. Women have long been the backbone of our agricultural industry, yet their stories and contributions often go unnoticed.

Through initiatives like the Coffee Marathon, we recognize their efforts and create pathways for empowerment, fostering both social and economic growth,” Nyamutoro said.

Inspire Africa Group CEO Dr. Nelson Tugume reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to uplifting rural women through various interventions, including the Coffee Marathon.

“A lot of rural women contribute to the coffee value chain, but their efforts often go unrecognized. Through this marathon, we aim to support, skill, and train these women while helping them recapitalize,” Tugume said.

The Coffee Marathon is set to become an annual event, bringing communities together, promoting wellness, and raising awareness about the importance of empowering women in agriculture.

The initiative aligns with Uganda’s vision of becoming a global leader in the coffee industry, championing both sustainable development and gender equity.