Flower earnings grow ahead of Valentine’s Day

Uganda’s flower exporters are set to cash in on the forth-coming Valentine’s day as orders increase.

Information from the Uganda Flower Exporters Association (UFEA), shows that 320,000 kilogrames (3,200 tonnes) have been exported to Netherlands ahead of Valentine’s day.

“This is a busy weekend because we are sending valentines’ day orders. This time, there have been more orders,” UFEA’s executive director, Ms Julie Musoke, said.

Experts hail this, saying it is a good sign for an industry that had earlier suffered setbacks due to the global recession.

She attributes the increase in orders to the growing optimism in the European economy because of reforms set up to address the effects of the recession.

Last year, despite the Euro-zone crisis, it is said to have been a good year for the industry, signaling a gradual recovery.

Sharing her outlook about the industry’s performance, Ms Musoke said: “2012 was a better year and we are optimistic about 2013 if we continue improving our yields.”

Save for Oasis and Kajjansi flower firms which have not expanded, about 12 firms have expanded, for instance, Rosebud (U) Limited, Jambo Roses, Fiduga (U) Limited and Mairye flower firm.

In 2012, the commodity contributed revenue worth $36 million, up from the $28 million recorded in 2011.

Mr Musoke refuted allegations that the industry was struggling because of the two-firms namely Xpressions and Mellisa, which closed business last year.

Despite the closure, the number of hectares increased by close of 2012 to 250 hectares, up from 200 hectares.

The industry has also seen jobs created increase from 6,000 to 8,000 people by the close of 2012.

dnakaweesi@ug.nationmedia.com