Brand story
From banana loss problem to premium Ugandan food brand.
Tooke grew out of a long research journey and became the commercial expression of BIRDC’s work to industrialise Uganda’s highland banana crop.
The founding vision
The story begins in 2005 with the Presidential Initiative on Banana Industrial Development. Under the leadership of Rev. Prof. Florence Isabirye Muranga, the work focused on turning matooke from a vulnerable fresh crop into a higher-value industrial ingredient and product platform.
After years of scientific work, the initiative evolved into BIRDC in 2019. That transition mattered: it signalled a move from project logic to product logic, and Tooke became the brand built to take the work to customers and markets.
Key milestones
PIBID launched
The banana industrialisation journey formally begins.
Research depth built
Food science and biochemistry work shaped viable product pathways.
BIRDC formed
The work transitions into a more commercially focused company.
Tooke brand established
The market-facing brand is created to carry the products outward.
Recognition grows
Industry awards and public visibility reinforce commercial credibility.
Recognition strengthened the narrative
Industry recognition, including the BUBU Impactive Expo Award, helped validate Tooke as more than an experiment. It is a serious Ugandan brand with proof of execution, visibility and commercial ambition.
The story does not stop at flour
BIRDC’s innovation layer extends beyond food. Banana fibre research points to a broader industrial future where more of the crop can create value for communities, manufacturers and the country.
Mission and vision
Mission
Transform Uganda’s highland bananas into premium food products that nourish consumers, empower farmers and reduce wheat dependence.
Vision
Position matooke flour as a credible raw material for domestic and global bakery and food markets.
Build with the Tooke story
Explore the products, partnerships and market opportunities growing out of BIRDC’s banana innovation journey.
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