FDC warns against merging UCDA with agriculture ministry, citing threats to coffee quality

The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has urged the government to adopt a "thoughtful and inclusive approach" when considering reforms to Uganda's coffee sector.

The opposition party argues that a balanced strategy could safeguard the interests of coffee stakeholders while bolstering Uganda's economic growth.

On Thursday, Parliament postponed a decision on the future of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), the body responsible for overseeing both on-farm and off-farm activities within the coffee value chain.

Under the proposed National Coffee (Amendment) Bill 2024, the government plans to merge the UCDA with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF), transferring its functions to a department within the ministry.

The FDC, however, warns that this move could jeopardize the quality and growth of Uganda's coffee industry, a key economic pillar.

Speaking on behalf of the party, Deputy Secretary for Publicity-Publications, Walid Mulindwa Lubega, outlined several objections.

"We believe that merging UCDA with the Ministry of Agriculture could dilute the specialised expertise that UCDA has developed over the years in coffee production, harvesting, storage, and all aspects of the value chain," Lubega stated.

He said the FDC's primary concern is the potential impact on coffee farmers, who rely on UCDA's expertise in areas like farmer registration, geo-location, and traceability.

"Our view is that the Ministry of Agriculture lacks the technical capacity and competence to handle these critical tasks," Lubega said.

He added that UCDA's ongoing efforts to support farmers should not be disrupted, as they are crucial for maintaining the growth and competitiveness of Uganda's coffee industry.

Coffee exports are vital to Uganda's economy, and the FDC contends that merging UCDA with the Ministry of Agriculture could stall the sector's progress.

"Coffee exports are essential for Uganda’s economy," Lubega remarked.

"The proposed changes do not guarantee sustained growth, especially given UCDA's previous struggles with underfunding. Shifting its operations to the Ministry of Agriculture could result in a transition from bad to worse."

The FDC maintains that UCDA's autonomy is essential for effective coffee development.

"UCDA has a proven track record of success. Instead of merging it, the government should focus on increased funding to realize greater gains," Lubega argued.

The FDC has put forward several recommendations aimed at safeguarding the future of Uganda's coffee industry:

The party insists that UCDA should remain an independent body to protect its specialised expertise.

"Parliament, as it moves to the second stage of the bill reading, should consider the concerns raised by key stakeholders in the coffee sector and maintain the status quo," said Lubega.

Lubega calls for improved cooperation between UCDA, the Ministry of Agriculture, and other stakeholders to optimize resource allocation and foster a stronger coffee sector.

Emphasising the importance of policies that protect farmers' interests, Lubega advocates for measures that promote fair pricing, improve coffee quality, and encourage sustainable production practices.

"A farmer-focused approach is crucial to ensuring the sector’s long-term success," he noted.

As the debate over the future of UCDA continues, Lubega encouraged coffee farmers to remain actively involved.

"We encourage coffee farmers to stay engaged as the battle for the soul of Uganda’s coffee industry goes on," he said.