Farmers urged to preserve cashew trees as Soroti factory nears
The proposed factory brings renewed optimism to the region, signalling a promising future for Teso’s cashew sector and encouraging farmers to reinvest in sustainable, high-value agriculture
SOROTI, July 24, 2025 — Farmers in the Teso Subregion have been urged to preserve their cashew trees in anticipation of a new processing factory set to be established in Soroti City. The development is expected to significantly boost the local economy and offer a stable source of income for cashew growers in the region.
With global demand for cashew nuts on the rise, the factory is poised to create new opportunities for both farmers and entrepreneurs, potentially transforming the agricultural landscape of the Teso Subregion.
Abel Ekelot, the Regional Coordinator for Operation Wealth Creation [OWC] in Teso, revealed that the region currently hosts an estimated 11 million cashew trees. However, he highlighted two key challenges facing the sector: the scattered nature of the trees and the prevalence of poor-quality varieties, both of which negatively impact yield and nut quality.
“We’re looking at sustainability as the factory becomes operational, and we’re already working towards that,” said Ekelot. “A donor is offering to provide a processing machine, so I urge farmers—please don’t cut down those trees.”
To address the current challenges, Ekelot stressed the importance of farmer organisation—through cooperatives or structured groups—to enhance productivity, improve quality, and access better markets.
Moses Echeku, Agricultural Officer for Soroti District, described the proposed factory as a potential game-changer for the region’s farmers. He encouraged them to maintain and care for their cashew trees to fully benefit from the upcoming market opportunity.
“This development will provide a stable market, create employment opportunities, and stimulate the local economy,” Echeku said. “It could mark a turning point for farmers in Teso.”
Paul Wamono, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer of Soroti district, admitted he had previously considered cutting down his cashew trees due to a lack of market prospects.
“This could be a great opportunity to improve our livelihoods,” Wamono said. He welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that a local processing facility would reduce transport costs and increase profit margins for farmers.
The proposed factory brings renewed optimism to the region, signalling a promising future for Teso’s cashew sector and encouraging farmers to reinvest in sustainable, high-value agriculture.
Cashew nuts are used to make a wide variety of products, including various food items and industrial materials. Food products include roasted and salted cashews, cashew butter, cashew milk, cashew cheese, and cashew flour. They are also used as an ingredient in chocolate, breakfast cereals, fruit and nut bars, and various dishes like stir-fries and salads.
Beyond food, cashew nut shell liquid [CNSL] is extracted from the cashew shell and used in industrial applications such as lubricants, waterproofing, and paints. The cashew apple, a fruit related to the nut, is also used to make juice, jam, and other products.
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