Uganda’s coffee sector has posted its strongest performance in history, with exports for the Coffee Year 2024/2025 soaring to 8.2 million 60kg bags, earning the country US$2.3 billion (UGX 8.1 trillion).
The latest report from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) shows a 29.6% rise in export volume and a staggering 64.1% increase in export value compared to the previous year, solidifying Uganda’s position as Africa’s top coffee exporter, ahead of Ethiopia.
The remarkable growth has prompted Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze to urge Ugandans with idle land to venture into coffee farming.
“I appeal to all Ugandans with unutilized land (not forested) to open it and plant coffee. It will bring the best returns on investment,” Tumwebaze said, celebrating the sector’s record earnings.
September Exports Signal Continued Momentum
Uganda exported 844,949 bags of coffee in September alone, valued at US$218.6 million (UGX 766.7 billion) — a 56.1% rise in volume compared to the same month last year.
Robusta Coffee remained dominant with 771,704 bags worth US$190 million, supported by strong harvests in Central and Eastern Uganda.
Arabica Coffee recorded an exceptional surge, exporting 73,245 bags, whose value jumped by more than 280% due to rising global prices and improved bean quality.
What’s Driving the Boom?
Sector experts point to a blend of favourable domestic conditions and global market opportunities.
Good Harvests: Adequate rainfall in major coffee regions boosted yields.
Global Price Spikes: Weather-related supply shortages in Brazil and Vietnam intensified global demand for Ugandan beans.
Government Interventions: Tailored extension services, improved access to inputs, farmer training in GAPs, and aggressive international marketing campaigns have elevated quality and competitiveness.
New Market Opportunities: A recent MoU with Cotti, a major Chinese coffee buyer, has opened fresh avenues for exports.
With global consumption on the rise and Uganda delivering consistent supply and improving quality, the country is increasingly becoming a critical player in the global coffee value chain.
