The “Power of Voices/Fair for All” project, a joint effort between Oxfam and the Agency for Community Empowerment (AFCE), is significantly altering coffee production in Paidha, Zombo District, in North Western Uganda. This project is part of the Livelihood and Income Security programme and introduces a new approach to coffee processing through microstations led by farmers.

Since 2011, AFCE has been working to enhance the lives of farmers in Zombo and Nebbi districts. They provide training and support to enable farmers to manage their own microstations—small, farmer-operated coffee processing facilities. This method improves coffee quality and ensures fair compensation for farmers.

The “Power of Voices/Fair for All” initiative is centered on establishing and supporting these microstations. The aim is to enhance the quality and traceability of Arabica coffee. Each microstation is constructed, owned, and run by local farmer groups in collaboration with AFCE. The project ensures high processing standards and robust data management, making coffee fully traceable regarding quality, microlot, and financial transactions.

The project has several key objectives:

• Empower Local Farmers: To provide farmers with the necessary skills and resources to effectively manage their microstations.
• Enhance Coffee Quality: To ensure that Arabica coffee processed at the microstations meets rigorous quality standards.
• Increase Farmer Income: To offer farmers fair prices for their coffee cherries, including additional bonuses based on cupping scores.
• Promote Sustainable Practices: To facilitate the transition to organic coffee production and improve environmental sustainability.

The goals of the project include:

• Develop 15 Microstations: Establishing and supporting 15 microstations in the Alur Highlands, where each microstation will produce handcrafted Natural and Washed coffees. These coffees will reflect the diverse elevations, terroirs, and processing methods of the region.
• Boost Farmer Earnings: Farmers will receive payments 10-20% above market prices for their coffee cherries and additional bonuses based on cupping scores, enhancing their financial stability.
• Expand Coffee Range: Offering a broader selection of natural and washed coffees as new microstations are established and organic coffee conversion progresses.
• Ensure Quality and Traceability: Green Arabica coffee beans will be hulled, polished, screened, and sorted to meet international quality standards before being packed and exported.

Oxfam, an international organization, is dedicated to alleviating global poverty and addressing social injustices. They collaborate with partners around the world to implement projects that foster sustainable development and improve livelihoods. The “Power of Voices/Fair for All” project exemplifies Oxfam’s commitment to fair trade practices and community empowerment.

AFCE continues to advance the coffee industry in North-Western Uganda through innovative practices and fair trade principles, benefiting both farmers and consumers worldwide.