At ALTALE, our approach to coffee begins with the people who grow it. We believe that world-class coffee starts at the farm — and that empowered farmers are the foundation of a sustainable, high-quality supply chain. That’s why we invest directly in building long-term, trust-based partnerships with coffee farmers across Uganda, from smallholder growers in the highlands to larger commercial estates.
Here’s how we make it happen:
🌱 Step 1: Identifying and Onboarding Farmers
We begin by identifying farmers and farmer groups in key coffee-growing regions of Uganda. Through a vetting and onboarding process, we select those who show commitment to quality, openness to training, and alignment with our fair trade principles.
- We register farmers into our supply system.
- Each farmer is geo-mapped for traceability.
- Farm data (acreage, productivity, needs) is recorded and updated annually.
📚 Step 2: Capacity Building & Training
Once farmers join the ALTALE network, we offer structured training programs focused on:
- Sustainable & Climate-Smart Farming: Including soil health, pest management, and responsible water use.
- Harvesting & Post-Harvest Techniques: To minimize loss and maximize bean quality.
- Business & Record-Keeping Skills: So farmers can track costs, revenues, and long-term goals.
Our field extension officers conduct in-person sessions and follow-ups throughout the growing season.
🌾 Step 3: Input Support & Productivity Tools
To ensure our farmers can achieve high yields and maintain quality, we support them with access to critical inputs:
- Improved Seedlings & Coffee Varieties: Drought-resistant and high-yield strains.
- Organic & Approved Fertilizers: Provided on credit or subsidized where needed.
- Farm Tools & Equipment: Including pruning shears, drying mats, and protective gear.
We also connect farmers with financing options for farm investments through trusted partners.
🤝 Step 4: Transparent Procurement & Fair Compensation
When the coffee is ready, we handle procurement directly — with no middlemen — to ensure farmers are paid fairly and promptly.
- Farmers deliver cherries to our collection centers or we pick up directly.
- Cherries are weighed, graded, and logged into our digital system on-site.
- Payments are made quickly via mobile money or bank transfer.
We also offer performance-based premiums for quality and consistency, further motivating farmers to maintain high standards.
🔄 Step 5: Ongoing Support & Community Impact
Our relationship doesn’t end after harvest. We continue to work with farmers year-round, helping them improve each season.
- We reinvest in community projects — water, roads, and schools.
- We offer loyalty benefits and support cooperatives with governance and leadership training.
- We maintain open lines of communication and feedback to refine our programs.
At ALTALE, we’re not just buying coffee — we’re building a farming ecosystem that benefits everyone involved: from the growers in the hills to the consumers in cities across the world.