Uganda’s coffee sector is mourning the passing of Dr. Emmanuel Iyamulemye, the former Executive Director of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), who died on the morning of November,18, 2025.
The news was confirmed by Minister of Agriculture Frank Tumwebaze, who posted a message of condolence on his X account, describing Dr. Iyamulemye as one of the strongest pillars of Uganda’s coffee transformation.
Dr. iyamulemye served as a key architect of the Uganda Coffee Roadmap, the strategy that significantly boosted national coffee production and competitiveness. During his leadership, Uganda registered major growth in coffee exports and strengthened its position among the world’s leading coffee origins.
He championed improvements in coffee quality standards, expanded extension services, and advocated globally for the recognition of African coffee varieties—most notably defending the value of Uganda’s Robusta. His work in international coffee platforms elevated Uganda’s profile and safeguarded the integrity of its coffees.
Dr. Iyamulemye also played an instrumental role in diversifying Uganda’s coffee markets, including opening new export opportunities such as the fast-growing market in China.
Robert Byaruhanga, President of the Uganda Coffee Federation, remembered him as a visionary leader and a dedicated advocate for farmers.
Dr. iyamulemye’s death leaves a significant void in Uganda’s coffee fraternity, where his influence and legacy will be felt for years to come.