KAMPALA — Norland International Uganda on Saturday celebrated seven years of operations in Uganda with a major event at UMA Show Grounds Lugogo, where it also unveiled a new tea and coffee franchise business aimed at expanding entrepreneurship opportunities.
The anniversary event, held at the Multipurpose Hall, attracted partners, distributors and investors from across the region, with activities ranging from product exhibitions and networking sessions to awards and franchise presentations.
The highlight of the day was the launch of the Vmax Tea & Coffee Shops franchise model, a new venture blending Asian tea culture with coffee and wellness beverages.
Focus on growth and partnerships
Speaking at the event, Johnny Chen, President of Norland International and Vice Chairman of Vmax365, said the celebration was both a milestone and a platform to expand opportunities.
“Today, we are celebrating not only our anniversary but also our partners and customers,” Chen said. “The main focus of this event is recognition and awards.”
He noted that the company used the occasion to introduce new products, including 13 household items aimed at everyday use.
“These products will be offered at very affordable prices—often lower than what is available in supermarkets—while still allowing us to pay commissions to our members,” he said.
On the newly launched franchise, Chen added: “Our vision is to introduce Chinese tastes to the world by partnering with our members… We aim to provide good taste, good health, and good prices.”
He revealed that Norland plans to source raw materials such as coffee, milk and fruits locally as the franchise expands, with prospects of establishing a food processing factory in Uganda in the future.
Local leadership and expansion plans
Maclyn Musiime Itazya, Blue Diamond Leader and Founder of Norland East and Central Africa, traced the company’s journey in Uganda to humble beginnings. “Norland Uganda began seven years ago from my home in Muyenga,” she said. “Today… we are now launching a new venture — a tea and coffee franchise business.”
She emphasised that the franchise model offers a structured investment opportunity similar to global brands. “This is different from network marketing — it is a structured franchise model,” she explained. “Franchise business is the next big thing.”
Musiime also revealed plans to establish a regional manufacturing hub in East Africa within five years, aimed at producing daily-use products locally and partnering with Ugandan manufacturers.
However, she cited export bottlenecks and regulatory hurdles as ongoing challenges. “My appeal to government… is to streamline processes for companies that are already compliant,” she said. “The more we grow, the more Ugandans benefit.”
Impact on livelihoods
Distributors and partners shared testimonies on how the business has impacted their lives.
Doreen Sabiti, a Gold Medallist and regional coordinator, said the opportunity had transformed her from a housewife into an international business leader.
“Through helping others improve their health, I have also been able to build a rewarding career,” she said. “An opportunity may come once, but it is up to you to recognise it and take it.”
She noted that the company continues to expand across the region, with teams operating in multiple countries.
Another distributor, Kansiime Agnes, credited the company with both health and financial transformation.
“I had suffered from diabetes for seven years, but after using the products, my condition improved, and I was able to recover,” she said.
She added: “This opportunity is not only about improving health, but also about empowering people economically.”
Looking ahead
Norland, a Beijing-headquartered company focused on life-science innovation and wellness products, says it has impacted millions of families globally and continues to expand its footprint in Africa.
The Kampala event also drew dignitaries including Fred Bamwine, a Commissioner in the RDC Secretariat within the Office of the President, reflecting growing interest in wellness innovation and franchise-based entrepreneurship.
Organisers say the launch of the Vmax franchise marks a new phase for the company in Uganda, positioning it within the growing lifestyle, health and retail sectors.
Publicist Brian Muhumuza Bishanga of BM Publications said the strong turnout and regional participation reflected growing interest in wellness entrepreneurship and franchise-based business models.
“We saw participants coming in from different countries across the region, which shows the level of confidence in the Norland model and the opportunities it presents,” he said.
Norland’s new premium lifestyle brand blends Asian tea culture with quality coffee. Outlets offer teas, coffees, smoothies, milkshakes, and wellness drinks. The launch included detailed presentations, sampling, model shop showcase, and enrolment guidance – ideal for scalable wellness retail in Uganda and beyond.