SIMPSON M
The Rukungiri District Commercial Officer, Madam Caroline Atuhiire, has urged primary coffee cooperatives under Kigezi Growers Co-operative Union Limited to prioritize regular meetings to enhance planning and development within the Union.
Speaking at the Union’s 58th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday, March 28, 2025, Atuhiire emphasized the need for cooperative members to engage in structured discussions that foster growth. The event, held at Kagogo in the Western Division of Rukungiri Municipality, was attended by society chairpersons and delegates.
Atuhiire also encouraged coffee farmers to maintain manageable gardens focused on producing high-quality coffee for competitive markets. She further called on members to involve the younger generation in sustainable coffee farming and market networking to ensure long-term success.
Addressing financial discipline, Atuhiire warned against loan defaulting, noting that failure to repay loans weakens the Union’s financial stability. She urged members to honor their financial obligations so that funds remain available for others in need.
Meanwhile, Patrick Kiiza, a representative from the Uganda Cooperative Alliance and the guest of honor, commended the Union for generating UGX 13 million in profits in 2024. However, he highlighted concerns about insufficient support from member societies in supplying coffee to the Union.
Kiiza stressed the importance of strong mobilization efforts to boost coffee collection and enhance market competitiveness through training and awareness campaigns. He reminded members and the Board that a cooperative is a business, and as coffee is their primary focus, they must make it their top priority. He further emphasized that decisions should first be discussed at the primary cooperative level before being presented at the AGM for deliberation and approval.
On financial matters, Kigezi Growers Co-operative Union Board Chairperson, Mugisha Didas, appealed to the government to settle the Union’s outstanding War Debt Compensation balance of over UGX 6 billion. He stated that the Union has exercised patience but now requires the funds to improve operations, including acquiring modern coffee hullers, enhancing transportation infrastructure, and providing capital for coffee purchases. Didas affirmed the Union’s commitment to following legal procedures to secure the payment.
Despite financial challenges, Didas expressed gratitude for the Union’s resilience and commitment to development.
During the AGM, elections were conducted to select cooperative leaders. However, all incumbents retained their positions, with Mugisha Didas re-elected as Union Chairperson and Mrs. Mugisha Lydia as Vice Chairperson. Other re-elected board members include Mr. Ally Rugomwa, Mr. Ntwirenabo Arther, and Mr. Sisiri Christopher. Mr. Twinomujuuni Wednesday retained his role as Union Treasurer, while Mr. Mbarebaki George continues as Secretary.
The Vetting Committee also maintained its leadership, with Ntungura Gideon, Tindimuzara Charles, and Ndangamwa Charles overseeing the committee’s activities.
The AGM concluded with renewed commitments to improving coffee production, financial discipline, and advocacy for government compensation to strengthen the Union’s operations.
