Rosemary, known for its aromatic and medicinal properties, is gaining popularity among Ugandan farmers, not just for cultivation, but also for its value-added potential.
With the right approach, rosemary can be transformed into a profitable agribusiness beyond simply selling fresh herbs.
Phoebe Kagambe, a rosemary farmer from Rwentale-Kamata village in Kyenjojo district, says value addition has increased her income and opened up new markets.
“I started by selling fresh rosemary to local markets, but I soon realised I could earn more by drying it and packaging it properly for herbal shops and supermarkets”, she explains.
Kagambe now processes rosemary into dried spice packs, essential oil, and even herbal teas. She uses simple solar drying methods and packages the products in branded containers for retail. “People want clean, well-labelled, and ready-to-use products. That’s where the value is,” she explains.
Evanice Manyiraho, a seasoned herbal farmer from Kicwamba in Kabarole district, also agrees and trains women and youth in turning herbs like rosemary into consumer-friendly products. “You can make rosemary-infused oil, soap, lotions, and tea, these products have a longer shelf life and fetch better prices”, she says.
Manyiraho encourages farmers to learn basic processing skills and improve hygiene and packaging standards to meet market demands.
According to Manyiraho adding value to rosemary requires commitment, creativity, and a small initial investment in equipment like solar dryers, grinders, and sealers. With Uganda’s growing herbal and organic product market, they believe rosemary can become a key income source if properly processed and marketed.
