Business 6 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Carol Zawedde Builds Thriving Agritourism Empire at Mlinza Farm
At 31, Ugandan agri-entrepreneur Carol Zawedde-Sanyu has transformed personal setbacks into success through Mlinza Farm, blending livestock farming with immersive rural tourism experiences. She credits her community, particularly the Abakyala be’Zirobwe women's group, for providing crucial support in her journey. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/jobs-and-career/zawedde-thrives-in-agritourism-sector-5449066
Carol Zawedde-Sanyu, a 31-year-old agri-entrepreneur from a large family of 13 children, discovered her passion for business early on. Inspired by her mother’s restaurant and grandfather’s farm in Wakiso District, she internalized the idea that farmers hold true wealth in Uganda.
Before diving into agriculture, Zawedde honed her skills in the flour trade. Operating a small eatery in Ggaba, she spotted market gaps, became a broker, and launched Ngalu Maize Flour, expanding to South Sudan and DRC. A major client default forced her to step back, leaving the business to her sister.
Her farming journey began unexpectedly in Zirobwe, Luwero District, with 25 pregnant goats from a friend. She dedicated a full year to learning livestock management. As expenses mounted, especially during Covid-19, she diversified into chickens, turkeys, guinea fowls, ducks, rabbits, and catfish for quicker returns.
Marketing challenges led to innovation. Visitors to the farm requested meals, sparking agritourism. Zawedde offered ‘village vibe’ experiences with games, dancing, and exotic foods like guinea fowl, charging Shs100,000 per visitor. Social media buzz from celebrity friends boosted visibility.
To meet urban demand, she started deliveries to Kampala, opened Mlinzi Meat Store for fresh produce, and launched Solene Foods for cooked meals. Bootstrapping without loans, she uses deposits and reinvests profits.
Community is central to her success. The Abakyala be’Zirobwe women’s group provides encouragement, while Zawedde teaches farming, buys local produce, and supports schools and girls’ empowerment. Local children now supply her with rabbits, fostering collective growth.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)