Flower exporter upgrading to meet growing global demand

At least ten community villages August 6 received 2,000 mattresses through the Rosebud Farm program in in Namulanda, Wakiso District, with the company seeking to hold grip on the global market. 

Officiating at the handover, Rosebud farm managing director, Mr Rajiv Ruparelia said the flower exporting company ''plans to boost horticulture to meet growing international demand.''

The firm founded by business mogul Dr Sudhir Ruparelia exports about 150 million roses annually and according to Mr Rajiv, the company has now obtained international certification which allows it to sell in many countries.

"Uganda now exports quality flowers to all major markets. We have also attained fair trade standards which means we sell at good values which benefits the country and our workforce," Rajiv Ruparelia explained 

This he says calls for the expansion of the business to increase revenue for the country and employment.

"The market abroad is very big. Even if we increase the acreage of our farms we will not satisfy the entire market. We need to increase productivity using good farm practices that we have used for many years. If you work hard we shall all benefit as a family," he remarked. 

Mr Rajiv was addressing ten community villages in the vicinity of Rosebud Farm.

"We are a family and trust me your interest is our interest. We are all in this together to ensure your livelihoods are improved...That you can take your children to school and have a good life. So lets work hard together to achieve together," he further urged.  

Rosebud farm currently employs over 1,500 people, operating on about 60 hectares, up from 13 hectares in early 2000.