A group of enterprising farmers operating under the name “Team North Cooperative Society” is making a killing through the cultivation of legumes.
The cooperative cultivates legumes such as Beans and Soybeans which are then sold for profit both locally and internationally.
The cooperative’s chairperson Chimwemwe Sibale has indicated that the group, comprising of 56 members, saw an opportunity in legume cultivation and seized it.
“At first we had doubts but I am glad that our hardwork is finally paying off,” Sibale said.
Sibale said the cooperative has secured a lucrative legume market in Kenya, where it will be exporting tonnes of legumes, earning the country thousands in foreign currency.
“Our focus is not only generating income for our members but also contributing to the country’s economy,” said Sibale.
She said in the current growing season, the cooperative expects to realize a combined profit of k510 million from the sale of Beans and Soybeans.
“This projection is coming from the dozens of acres of farmland we have cultivated,” She added.
The cooperative’s success has attracted the attention of Agriculture Commercialization (AGCOM), which has supported the cooperative with a grant of k131 million.
The grant has enabled the cooperative to procure essential machinery including a Massey Ferguson Tractor, Plough, Harrower, a modern Planter and a warehouse which will enable it to store it’s produce safely and efficiently.
AGCOM National Coordinator, Dr Ted Nankhumwa has commended Team North Cooperative Society for its vision and entrepreneurial spirit.
“Team North Cooperative Society’s success is a testament that through proper investment, our farmers can do wonders,” said DR Nankhumwa.
