In a landmark move, Uganda’s Parliament has passed the National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024, aimed at revitalizing the country’s coffee industry. This development has injected new optimism among coffee farmers, processors, and exporters.

Uganda is Africa’s second-largest coffee producer, with over 1.7 million households relying on coffee as their primary source of income. However, the sector has faced challenges, including low productivity, inadequate financing, and limited market access.

Key Provisions of the Bill include;

1. Integration with Agriculture Ministry: The Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) will now fall under the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), enhancing coordination and support.
2. Coffee Farmers’ Registry: A national registry will be established to document and support farmers, ensuring targeted interventions.
3. Quality Control: Stricter quality standards will be enforced to boost Uganda’s coffee reputation.
4. Financing: Access to affordable credit and insurance will be facilitated for farmers and processors.
5. Market Development: The bill promotes local and international market expansion.

The new move is thought to cause increased Productivity, better prices, enhanced quality and market access will translate to higher earnings for farmers, job creation- a thriving coffee sector will generate employment opportunities.

courtesy photo.