Biglad agritourism farm turns macadamia into a profitable crop
For Bigabwa, this year’s edition is about the fact that macadamia is not just a nut; it is a complete value chain.
Instead of selling raw nuts, processing them into butter, oil, or snacks significantly increases earnings. (Photos by Herbert Musoke)
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As the 10th Harvest Money Expo opened its gates, hundreds of visitors walked in eager to learn.
Among the most eye-catching exhibitors is Julius Bigabwa, owner of Biglad Agritourism Farm, who is using the platform to teach Ugandans the business power of macadamia.
Organised by the Vision Group, the expo, which began on Friday February 27 and ends today, has become a classroom where farmers are discovering high-value crops and new income streams.
For Bigabwa, this year’s edition is about the fact that macadamia is not just a nut; it is a complete value chain. At his stand, visitors encounter a variety of macadamia products rarely seen together in one place.
There is macadamia butter, smooth and ready for bread spreads, pure macadamia oil suitable for cooking and cosmetics, crunchy macadamia snacks, finely milled macadamia powder and a unique blend of macadamia mixed with honey.
He is also exhibiting quality macadamia seedlings for farmers interested in starting their own orchards.
Bigabwa says he is thrilled by the response. “Many Ugandans did not understand what macadamia is or how profitable it can be. But at this expo, people are tasting, asking questions and learning,” he explains.
Beyond selling products, he is educating farmers on the importance of value addition. Instead of selling raw nuts, processing them into butter, oil, or snacks significantly increases earnings. He also guides visitors on proper planting, spacing and long-term orchard management.
As Harvest Money Expo winds up, Bigabwa’s stall stands out as proof that with the right knowledge and processing, a single crop like macadamia can create multiple revenue streams, turning farming into a modern, profitable enterprise.
The expo was organised by Vision Group in partnership with the Kingdom of Netherlands, ENGSOL, Tunga Nutrition, aBi, Pearl Bank, and Uganda Development Corporation. Other sponsors are Heifer International, Roke Telecom, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Fisheries, Pepsi and Uganda Revenue Authority.