About Us
The Rwenzori Sustainable Trade Centre Limited (RSTC) is a social enterprise and business incubator dedicated to fostering sustainable economic development in the Rwenzori region of Uganda. Our primary focus is on empowering local communities by supporting six cooperatives that deal in coffee, cocoa, and cotton, as well as over 34 craft women groups, pivoted around 12 primary schools in 12 hard to reach communities on the slopes of Mountain Rwenzori and encompassing many other vulnerable producer groups in the region. Through our comprehensive programs and initiatives, we aim to enhance the livelihoods of farmers and artisans, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and ensure fair market access for their products.
Our Mission
Our mission is to drive sustainable economic growth and improve the quality of life for communities in the Rwenzori region. We achieve this by supporting local farmers and producers, enhancing market access, promoting eco-friendly practices, and fostering a culture of self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be a leading catalyst for sustainable trade in the Rwenzori region, empowering local communities to achieve economic independence, improve their quality of life, and preserve their cultural heritage through environmentally friendly practices. We envision a future where every farmer, producer, and artisan in the Rwenzori region has access to fair markets and opportunities for growth and development.
RSTC operates on the principles of sustainability, equity, and community empowerment. We believe that by providing the necessary tools, training, and market opportunities, we can help local producers achieve economic independence and improve their quality of life. Our approach is holistic, addressing the entire value chain from production to market, and ensuring that every step is conducted in an environmentally friendly and socially responsible manner.
Core Values
Community Empowerment: We believe in the power of local communities and work to empower individuals and groups by providing them with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to achieve economic independence and self-reliance.
Integrity: We conduct all our activities with honesty, transparency, and accountability, maintaining the highest ethical standards in our interactions with stakeholders and the broader community.
Innovation: We embrace innovative approaches and solutions to address the challenges faced by local communities, continuously seeking to improve our methods and outcomes.
Sustainability: We are committed to promoting sustainable practices in all aspects of our work, ensuring that our activities contribute to the long-term well-being of the environment and the communities we serve.
RSTC Roles
Build systems and structures that help producers manage their operations more formally and professionally
Training in business and financial management
Pre-financing: RSTC works with banks to provide credit lines to facilitate production and logistics activities
Monitoring and supporting the improvement and quality of all products to be able to compete in the international market
Ensuring compliance with certification standards, regulatory laws, and buyers’ ethical policies
Marketing products both locally and internationally
Linking Rwenzori producer groups, associations and cooperatives to other key stakeholders that can help them in various ways to advance.