The Buhyara savings group doubles its matooke price and buys a tricycle

Thirty-four members of a village savings group learned better farming and now earn twice as much for their matooke.

18 March 2025 Kicwamba, Kyenjojo 4 min read

Person

The members of the Buhyara savings and loans group (27 women and 7 men), including Gilbert, a member, and Mary, the treasurer.

Place

Kicwamba, Kyenjojo District.

Challenge

Before the programme, members did not know key farming practices. Yields were poor, income was low and the group could not pay for emergencies. A bunch of matooke sold for 7,000 shillings.

“We started putting what we learnt into practice. Whatever we produce is sold, and we have added value with the knowledge gained.”

Gilbert · Member, Buhyara savings group

Response

The group formed in 2022 with the Mpanga Super Farmer's Programme. JESE trained and equipped the members. They learned planning, handling after harvest and value addition, and visited other farmers to learn from them. With JESE paying 70% and the group raising the other 30%, they bought a tricycle to carry produce to the collection centre.

Change

A bunch of matooke now sells for 15,000 shillings. Members cook better meals at home instead of buying food. Some who used to cut trees now protect the environment and encourage others. The group began saving 2,000 shillings a week, now 3,000, and can hold up to 800,000 shillings. Savings are projected to reach 14 million at the end of the cycle.

Filed under

Livelihoods Food Systems