DFCU builds capacity of Kapchorwa FBOs, SMEs through refresher training
Addressing participants, Daniel Ikaaba, Senior Business Advisor at DFCU Foundation, emphasised that the training was part of the Foundation’s broader strategy to promote enterprise development at the grassroots
KAPCHORWA, December 11, 2025 — Leaders of farmer-based organisations [FBOs], Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations [SACCOs], and small and medium-sized enterprises [SMEs] say they have been transformed after completing a refresher training aimed at strengthening leadership, governance, and agricultural marketing systems.
The training, organised by the DFCU Foundation, was held recently in Sipi Town Council in Kapchorwa district. It brought together farmers, cooperative leaders, agripreneurs, and business owners from across the Sebei Subregion, who gathered to share experiences and acquire new skills to help grow sustainable enterprises, and improve household incomes.
Addressing participants, Daniel Ikaaba, Senior Business Advisor at DFCU Foundation, emphasised that the training was part of the Foundation’s broader strategy to promote enterprise development at the grassroots.
“Our goal is to empower farmer groups and small businesses with the knowledge that enables them to operate as viable enterprises. Enterprise development is not just about production; it is about planning, leadership, accountability, and market readiness,” he said.
Ikaaba guided participants on how to structure their organisations, develop clear business plans, and adopt sound governance practices. He explained that strong leadership and transparent financial systems are essential for attracting partners and investors.
“When records are clear and your leadership is credible, it becomes easier to access finance and build trust with financial institutions,” he added.
On market access, Ikaaba encouraged groups to move beyond subsistence approaches and make use of structured agricultural marketing channels. He advised them to prioritise quality, ensure consistent supply, and aggregate produce in order to attract better prices from buyers. He noted that organised marketing reduces exploitation by middlemen and strengthens farmers’ bargaining power.
Ikaaba also discussed challenges in accessing finance, observing that many rural enterprises struggle due to poor documentation and limited financial discipline. He urged participants to open and actively use SACCO and bank accounts, maintain up-to-date records, and build credit histories that can make them eligible for loans and other financial services.
“Access to finance is possible when you understand your business and can demonstrate its performance through records,” he said.
On business development, Ikaaba encouraged SMEs to embrace innovation, value addition, and proper branding of agricultural products. He urged groups to explore opportunities such as packaging, processing, and cooperative marketing to increase profits and reduce post-harvest losses.
He highlighted that business development aligns with the Financial Expansion and Agricultural Transformation [FEAT] framework, which promotes the growth of rural enterprises through improved productivity, better access to capital, and modern farming practices.
Participants were also addressed by Juma Twaha Dennis, Assistant Commercial Officer of Sipi Town Council, who applauded the DFCU Foundation for prioritising capacity-building in rural communities.
He encouraged the trained groups to work closely with the local government to align their activities with existing development plans. “As Sipi Town Council, we want to see our farmer groups and enterprises grow, pay taxes, create jobs for the youth, and contribute to local economic development,” Twaha said.
Several members of participating organisations expressed appreciation for the training, describing it as timely and practical.
Esther Chemutai Kibet of Kabat Women’s Group said the session helped her understand the importance of separating personal and business finances. “I now know how to keep simple records and how to plan for group savings,” she said.
Cheptai Zuena Atika of Towei Women’s Group said the lessons on marketing channels opened her eyes to new opportunities. “I have been selling my produce at the farmgate, but now I want to link with organised buyers and use group marketing to get better prices,” she said.
The training concluded with a call to action for all FBOs, SACCOs, and SMEs to apply the knowledge gained to strengthen their operations, improve transparency, and embrace commercial agriculture.
The DFCU Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting rural enterprises through mentorship, technical assistance, and linkages to financial and market opportunities.
At the close of the event, Ikaaba reminded participants that sustainable development begins with strong local institutions. He urged leaders of farmer groups and SACCOs to be accountable to their members and to champion positive change.
“When we strengthen leadership, improve financial management, and connect our farmers to real markets, we are not just transforming businesses; we are transforming communities,” he said.
The refresher training marked another step towards strengthening enterprise capacity in the Sebei Subregion, positioning farmer groups and SMEs to play a bigger role in Uganda’s agricultural and economic transformation.
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