The Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) is urging all participants in the coffee value chain to focus on improving quality to secure higher prices in international markets.
This call is part of a broader strategy to enhance Uganda's position as a leading coffee exporter and to boost the competitiveness of its coffee industry.
Kasese, one of Uganda's prominent coffee-producing regions, plays a vital role in the sector, contributing approximately 10-15% of the country's coffee export volumes.
Renowned for its Arabica coffee, Kasese has earned a global reputation for its high-quality beans, known for their rich flavor and aromatic qualities.
However, recent challenges have negatively impacted the quality, production, and productivity of Kasese's coffee.
Insufficient knowledge of proper coffee handling practices has led to a decline in quality, which directly affects international market prices.
To address these challenges, the UCDA is leading efforts to improve quality across the coffee value chain.
Eunice Kabibi, Director of Legal Services at UCDA, highlighted the importance of quality control measures, such as coffee stamping, in driving productivity and growth in Uganda's coffee sector.
"Implementing measures like coffee stamping will set the stage for a new era of productivity, growth, and success in Uganda’s coffee industry," Kabibi stated.
The UCDA is also investing in a new coffee laboratory, currently under construction, which will be key to certifying coffee quality and ensuring that only the best beans are exported from Uganda.
Doreen Rweihangwe, Director of Quality and Regulatory Services at UCDA, emphasized the laboratory's role in enhancing the quality and competitiveness of Ugandan coffee on the global stage.
As Uganda continues to elevate its coffee industry, these initiatives are expected to contribute significantly to securing better prices and strengthening the country's reputation in the international coffee market.