How Maria Nakanwagi and the dfcu Rising Woman Initiative Are Transforming Ugandan Entrepreneurship

In Uganda, where women entrepreneurs often face cultural barriers, financial constraints, and systemic challenges, stories of resilience and innovation shine brightly. Among these is Nakanwagi Maria Gorret, the visionary founder of Nature’s Essence Ltd, whose journey from government employee to mushroom agribusiness leader exemplifies the transformative power of initiatives like the dfcu Rising Woman program.

A Platform for Change: The dfcu Rising Woman Initiative

Launched in 2018 by dfcu Bank in partnership with the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), the Rising Woman Initiative was designed to empower Ugandan women entrepreneurs by providing them with skills, visibility, and financial support. Over the past six years, the program has impacted more than 70,000 women, offering business training, mentorship, and seed funding to help scale their ventures.

Now in its seventh season, the competition has become a cornerstone of female entrepreneurship in Uganda, fostering a network of women who are rewriting the narrative of business leadership in the country.

From Government Service to Mushroom Mogul

Maria’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2022 when she retired early from a 15-year career in Uganda’s public sector, including roles at the Office of the Prime Minister and the Uganda Bureau of Statistics. Armed with a Master’s degree in Rural Development and a passion for natural health, she founded Nature’s Essence Ltd, focusing on vegetable and herb value chains—with mushrooms as the centerpiece.

Her inspiration came from a deeply personal place. After a family member was diagnosed with diabetes, Maria turned to natural remedies and discovered the medicinal benefits of mushrooms. Witnessing firsthand how her home-grown fungi improved her loved one’s health, she realized she had found her calling.

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted economies worldwide, Maria’s mushroom business not only survived but thrived—underscoring the growing demand for sustainable, health-focused food solutions.

Winning the dfcu Rising Woman Competition

In 2023, Maria applied for Season 5 of the dfcu Rising Woman competition, submitting a proposal for a community-based mushroom network aimed at improving nutrition and livelihoods. Despite facing younger, more experienced competitors, her compelling vision and authenticity won over the judges.

“The pitch made me articulate not just what I do, but why it matters,” Maria recalls. Her victory opened doors to international recognition, including speaking engagements in Nairobi and acknowledgment by the African Development Bank for her contributions to women in renewable energy.

Redefining Resilience in Ugandan Business

Maria’s success story highlights both the challenges and opportunities for women entrepreneurs in Uganda. Issues like limited land ownership, lack of collateral for loans, and gender biases persist, yet she remains adamant that success is attainable.

“You start with what you have,” she advises aspiring entrepreneurs. “Even if it’s a small space on your veranda. Use your skills, leverage your networks, and grab every opportunity.”

Her experience underscores that women don’t just need financial capital—they also require belief, mentorship, and platforms that amplify their voices.

The Future of Female Entrepreneurship in Uganda

As the dfcu Rising Woman Initiative enters its seventh season, its impact continues to grow. Beyond financial grants, the program now offers regional training, mentorship, and strategic partnerships to deepen its reach.

For Maria, now affectionately known as “Mama Butiko” (Mother of Mushrooms), the initiative has been a springboard to greater influence. “I no longer walk into a room unnoticed,” she says proudly.

Through stories like Maria’s and initiatives like dfcu Rising Woman, Uganda’s entrepreneurial landscape is becoming more inclusive, sustainable, and female-led—a testament to the power of perseverance and community support.

This article is based on an original report by POA TV Uganda. Full credit goes to the original source.