KAPCHORWA, May 4, 2026 — Delegates of Sebei Elgon Cooperative Union [SECU] convened a special general meeting at the union’s offices in Kapchorwa district, where they resolved to review and amend a multi-billion-shilling partnership agreement involving Kapyoyon Farm.
The meeting focused on the future of the Shs 56 billion investment deal between the cooperative and Intracom Company Limited, tied to more than 500 acres of land where the company wants to carry out various agro-industrial activities.
The high-level meeting brought together union leaders and delegates representing members from across the Sebei sub-region. Discussions centred on ensuring that the investment delivers equitable benefits to cooperative members while safeguarding the union’s long-term interests.
The partnership, which has drawn mixed reactions in recent months, prompted the leadership to convene the special sitting to build consensus and address concerns surrounding the memorandum of understanding [MoU] signed with the investor.
Delegates reviewed the terms carefully, particularly regarding land use and revenue sharing from the Kapyoyon Farm project.
After extensive deliberations, a majority of delegates agreed to allow Intracom Company Limited to proceed with the investment, but under revised conditions. Chief among the resolutions was the decision to amend the MoU to ensure a more balanced and beneficial arrangement for the cooperative.
One key resolution was to set the investment period at 20 years. Delegates said the defined timeframe would guide implementation and provide a structured basis for evaluating the project’s performance on the expansive Kapyoyon Farm land.
In a significant shift from the initial agreement, delegates also approved an increase in the cooperative’s share of returns from 15 per cent to 30 per cent.
Members stressed that the land at Kapyoyon Farm is a valuable communal asset and that any investment must yield substantial benefits for farmers and the wider membership.
“This land is our heritage, and its value must be reflected in what members gain,” said Sabila Jackson, one of the delegates, highlighting the strategic importance of the farm.
The meeting further resolved to withdraw a legal case previously filed against the investor at Mbale High Court.
Delegates noted that continued litigation could delay development and strain relations between the parties. Instead, they expressed confidence that the revised MoU would provide a solid framework for cooperation and dispute resolution.
However, withdrawal of the case will be conditional on the successful review and signing of the amended MoU. Delegates emphasised that the investor must demonstrate commitment to the new terms before legal proceedings are formally discontinued.
Another key outcome was a directive to undertake a comprehensive review of the existing MoU. Delegates tasked union leaders with engaging legal experts to ensure the revised agreement clearly outlines the rights, responsibilities and expectations of both parties.
The review is expected to address critical issues including land utilisation, development plans, revenue distribution, environmental considerations and dispute resolution mechanisms. Delegates underscored the need for transparency and accountability throughout the project’s implementation.
Union officials welcomed the resolutions, noting that they reflect the collective voice of members and reinforce the cooperative’s commitment to protecting its assets.
They reaffirmed that Kapyoyon Farm remains a critical resource that must be managed for the benefit of both current and future generations.
“This decision shows that we are open to investment, but on terms that respect our members and our land,” said the Chairperson, Martin Kusuro.
The investment is widely viewed as a transformative opportunity for the Sebei Sub-region, with potential to create jobs, boost agricultural productivity and stimulate local economic growth. If successfully implemented, the project could improve livelihoods for thousands of cooperative members.
Despite the optimism, delegates called for strict oversight to ensure the investor adheres to agreed terms. They recommended regular monitoring and reporting on progress to maintain transparency and build trust among stakeholders.
As the meeting concluded, delegates expressed confidence in the future of the partnership. The resolutions are expected to guide the next phase of negotiations between SECU and Intracom Company Limited.
Union leaders are now set to initiate formal discussions with the investor to finalise the amended MoU. Stakeholders remain hopeful that the revised agreement will pave the way for a stronger, fairer and more sustainable investment at Kapyoyon Farm, securing long-term benefits for cooperative members across the Sebei Sub-region.
https://thecooperator.news/sebei-cooperative-empowers-farmers-with-sustainable-incomes/
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