Meridah Nandudu is transforming the coffee industry in Uganda by creating a supportive community for female coffee growers. Her initiative, Bayaaya Specialty Coffee, aims to empower women by ensuring they receive fair compensation for their labor. This approach has led to a significant increase in the number of women involved in coffee production in the Sironko district, where coffee is a vital part of the local economy.
• Nandudu's business model pays women an extra 200 shillings per kilogram of coffee, encouraging more female participation.
• The group has grown from a few dozen women in 2022 to over 600 today, making up 75% of registered farmers.
• Women are now more involved in financial decisions, leading to greater household stability and reduced domestic conflict.
• The rising coffee prices and demand, especially as Brazil faces production challenges, further support this initiative.
This movement matters because it not only improves the economic status of women but also fosters gender equality in a traditionally male-dominated field. By empowering women, Nandudu is helping to create a sustainable future for coffee farming in Uganda, benefiting entire communities.
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