Government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo has questioned the opposition’s expertise on Uganda’s coffee industry, stating, “You saw the people who were shouting. They are all from one side, the opposition. Are they the most knowledgeable about coffee in this country?”
Opondo’s remarks come amid growing tensions over new policies in the coffee sector, a critical part of Uganda’s economy. The government’s recent reforms aimed at revitalising coffee production have drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who argue that the changes may benefit a privileged few at the expense of small-scale farmers.
They express concern over potential partnerships with foreign companies, suggesting these deals could exploit local producers.
In response, Opondo dismissed these criticisms, arguing that opposition members lack the expertise needed to comment effectively on the industry’s complexities.
He claimed that their objections are more about political posturing than genuine concern for farmers’ welfare, while the government’s agricultural experts are better positioned to guide the sector’s future.
Opondo’s statements have intensified the ongoing conflict between the government and the opposition on agricultural policy. As debate around coffee industry reforms continues, stakeholders await clarity on whether these changes will ultimately support Uganda’s coffee producers or disproportionately favor select interests.