OUR STORY

Ms. Victoria Burke: A Journey of Dedication and Resilience

Founder Ms. Victoria Burke has been an integral part of NT since 2005. With years of experience consulting for companies exporting organic products from Africa, Burke played a crucial role in Nile Teas' inception. She participated in farmer recruitment, training, and expanding production capacity for NT and other companies. Burke, originally from Uganda, has witnessed the challenges brought by war, including the tragic loss of eleven women producers of hibiscus in an ambush by Kony's rebels (the Lord's Resistance Army or the LRA).

From Humble Beginnings to Expanding Horizons

Burke worked closely with Nile Teas during assessment trials and cultivar selection in various districts across Uganda. NT started with a modest group of 54 farmers in one district and, within three years, expanded to include over 2000 farms operating in six districts, with projects extending throughout the eastern parts of the country.

Ibis Atlantic (IA) and Nile Tea Uganda (NT): Bringing 'Simply Hibi' to the US Market

Ibis Atlantic (IA) was born out of a commitment to extending high-quality, authentic, exotic products from Uganda to the United States. IA partnered with Nile Tea Uganda (NT), a company specializing in the production of the special variety of Hibiscus Sabdarrifa, to introduce 'Simply Hibi' to the select US market.

Ibis Atlantic's Vertically Integrated Business Model

Ibis Atlantic exemplifies the production end of a vertically integrated business model, benefiting both consumers and small holder-farmers through an innovative, value-added supply chain that takes plant material from seed to store shelves. This model operates not only within East Africa and the UK but has now expanded into the US market.

A Short Supply-Chain Approach: Farm to Store Shelves

The operation represents a niche within the farming industry, with a short supply-chain approach encompassing farm production, processing (NT), and value addition and distribution (IA) of the end product - Simply Hibi.In essence, the short supply-chain approach adopted by IA and NT ensures that Simply Hibi embodies the freshness, authenticity, and exceptional quality that is derived from the labor of passionate farmers, the expertise of skilled processors, and the dedication of a team committed to bringing the best of Uganda to the world.

Improving Livelihoods and Supporting Small Holder Farmers

Ibis Atlantic is passionate about improving the livelihoods of numerous small holder farmers in Uganda who lack market opportunities for their products. With agriculture being a vital source of income for many, Ibis Atlantic is poised to introduce 'Simply Hibi,' a remarkable drink bursting with freshness harnessed from the rich volcanic soils and abundant tropical equatorial sun that Uganda is known for.

Supporting Small Holder Farmers: Enjoy 'Simply Hibi' and Make a Difference

By consuming 'Simply Hibi,' you are not only indulging in a delightful beverage but also supporting the smallholder farmers who contribute to its creation. Ibis Atlantic's commitment to empowering these farmers goes beyond providing market access; it is an investment in improving their lives and fostering sustainable agricultural practices.