Moyo cooperative faces setbacks amid hope for recovery
The cooperative was formally registered in 2013 [on probation] and gained permanent status in 2014
MOYO, September 7, 2025 – Established in 1999, Amatura Produce and Marketing Cooperative in Moyo Sub-county, Moyo district has been a cornerstone of agricultural development in the region, promoting market access and support for vulnerable farmers. However, the once-thriving organisation is now grappling with operational challenges following years of growth.
The cooperative was formally registered in 2013 [on probation] and gained permanent status in 2014. Named Amatura, meaning “we shall grow”, the cooperative currently has over 178 members, each contributing an annual subscription fee of Shs 5,000 and a membership fee of Shs 10,000.
Originally created to improve market access for local cassava and maize farmers, the cooperative expanded its mandate over the years, but has diversified into value addition, packaging, and marketing.
Members have benefited from input loans, training in good agricultural practices, and post-harvest handling techniques to meet quality standards. During times of low supply, the cooperative sourced produce from neighbouring districts to maintain operations.
Significantly, a tractor donated by the now dissolved National Agricultural Advisory Services [NAADS] helped boost productivity and reduce farming costs. The cooperative also launched two retail outlets to provide processed goods and agricultural inputs to members.
However, Amatura’s progress has suffered serious setbacks in recent years. The retail outlets have since closed, and most value addition and packaging activities have been suspended. The only service currently offered is maize processing and packaging, and only for paying community members.
The downturn is largely attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted supply chains, reduced agricultural productivity, and weakened cooperative operations.
According to Store Manager Edward Dramani, the situation is further compounded by local agricultural habits, most farmers plant only during the first season and rarely apply fertilisers. Unpredictable rainfall and prolonged dry spells have led to frequent crop failures, placing further strain on the cooperative’s input supplies and operational viability.
Efforts to increase production through direct farming proved unsustainable due to high costs. Additionally, the cessation of donor funding, which often came with restrictive conditions, dealt a final blow to the cooperative’s broader activities.
Despite these challenges, Amatura still holds valuable assets, including offices, stores, processing equipment, and 37 acres of land in Lefori Sub-county. Recently, the cooperative planted rice on the Lefori land in a bid to diversify its product offerings and generate new income. Leaders remain optimistic that the upcoming harvest could mark a turning point.
The cooperative has been unable to convene its annual general meeting, citing incomplete financial audits as a major obstacle.
As it navigates a path toward recovery, Amatura remains a vital support system for local farmers and vulnerable groups. Its journey underscores the importance of sustainable farming, diversified income sources, and resilient cooperative structures in the face of adversity.
https://thecooperator.news/adjumani-sacco-acquires-tractors-as-total-assets-rise-to-shs-18bln/
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