Socially Conscious Business at Lekker Bakery

Starting off on a small scale during the first COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, Lekker Bakery’s business model has focussed on creating employment opportunities for people from marginalized communities who face numerous barriers in joining the labour market.

“We have people from different walks of life; people with disabilities, and people with social and educational issues. We look at where they come from and how the bakery can support them in establishing a stepping stone for their future in the labour market.

“Lekker is a Dutch word and it means tasteful; something that is very yummy. Our bakery focuses on artisan bread. This is bread made in a traditional way without very many machines. The shaping and kneading are done by the hands. We are selling bread; bread rolls, cookies, and cakes,” Rinty Kitu, the bakery owner.

Lekker Bakery has grown leaps and bounds since its establishment. Starting off as a mini bakery within a restaurant, the Bakery has now opened its own space along Kalungi road, Muyenga. In 2021, Lekker Bakery signed up as a member of the Make 12.4% Work Initiative and since then, it has offered workplace experience opportunities, including short-term internships and jobs, to three persons with disabilities.

All pastries made at Lekker Bakery are handcrafted, with no preservatives, colourants or additives.

“The manager in the Sales Department where I work had a physical impairment, and I loved working with him. I used to report to him regarding finances. He worked with a smile, and he used to help me reconcile the figures, to ensure that no mistake was made,” Pius, an employee at Lekker Bakery said.

Former employees with disabilities at the Bakery have provided valuable feedback on reasonable accommodations. Their recommendations have since been used by the administration to provide a more enabling work environment for existing staff with disabilities.

“Beyond offering employment opportunities to persons with disabilities, Lekker Bakery has also had disability awareness trainings for staff, and plans to take more deliberate steps on disability inclusion,” Rinty said.

For tasty, handmade, and healthy bread, bread rolls and pastries, contact Lekker Bakery at +256782383299 for deliveries in and around Kampala. They are located along Kalungi Road, Muyenga, Kampala.