Five tips on how to grow your farming business

By Ritah Mukasa

CPA Dennis Ssebugwawo, the proprietor of Seden Associates, an audit firm helps entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.

He believes, Uganda’s economy can be transformed through adding value to the agricultural sector, which supports almost all other industries.

He tips agricultural entrepreneurs on how to grow their ventures and yield more;

1. Maintain high-quality standards and focus on better agricultural practices, such as obtaining quality seeds and proper irrigation systems to avoid relying on seasons. Also, put in place appropriate post-harvest handling approaches, as it will attract customers.
2. Join a cooperative in order to access credit facilities, market opportunities, entrepreneurship skills and collective bargaining power for better prices.
3. Keeping abreast of market trends and consumer preferences is essential. Do research to identify emerging opportunities and tailor your production accordingly.
4. Instead of selling raw produce, consider processing and packaging them to add value. For example, fruits can be processed into juices. Processed and packaged products fetch higher prices on the market.
5. Consider diversifying to create more income streams. Over-dependence on one crop or livestock could be catastrophic, especially during harsh conditions. Also, ensure to add value to all the crops you diversify into and keep records.