Gulu Agricultural Development Company (GADC)

Gulu Agricultural Development Company (GADC) is a leading Ugandan social enterprise and agribusiness established in 2009 by Bruce Robertson. Founded in the aftermath of the civil war in Northern Uganda, it acts as a critical aggregator, processor, and exporter of diverse agricultural commodities. GADC revitalizes the region’s economy by linking over 120,000 smallholder farmers and refugees to international organic and fair-trade markets.

• Core Value Chains: While primarily known for cotton and sesame, the company has diversified into maize, chilli, sunflower, and soybeans. It also operates the Gulu Timber Company.

• Processing Infrastructure: GADC operates three major ginneries Coorom (Gulu), Kitgum, and Rhino Camp (Arua) alongside specialized facilities for sesame cleaning and oil milling.

• Extension Services & Training: The firm maintains an extensive field network of coordinators and lead farmers who provide training in climate-smart agronomy, post-harvest handling, and organic certification.

• Financial Inclusion: Through the establishment of Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs), GADC helps farmers access credit, financial literacy training, and pre-financing for agricultural inputs.

• Social & Refugee Impact: Over 80% of its 850+ employees are from forcibly displaced or refugee host communities. The company is a key partner in humanitarian projects like the Sustainable Development Goals Project (SDGP) and the Markets for Youth programme.

• Certifications: Their commitment to sustainability is verified by international bodies including ECOCERT (Fair For Life), Naturland, and Control Union (Organic).