Coffee in Uganda

Uganda considers coffee as its principal cash crop which delivers substantial economic value to the country. Uganda stands as one of the largest African coffee producers while exports from coffee operations generate substantial foreign exchange for the country. The following presents an overview of Uganda's coffee sector

Types of Coffee Grown in Uganda
The leading coffee plantation in Uganda consists mainly of Robusta Coffee which originated from the country. The lowland territories of Uganda serve as the perfect habitat for this type of coffee especially within the central and eastern parts.

The highlands of eastern and western Uganda serve as the cultivation area for Arabica coffee which produces better taste quality while also bringing valuable returns to farmers. Common varieties include:
- Bugisu Arabica – Grown on the slopes of Mount Elgon.
- Rwenzori Arabica (Drugar) – From the Rwenzori Mountains.
The high-quality Mt. Elgon Arabica coffee type can be found throughout the eastern highlands of Uganda.

Major Coffee-Growing Regions
- Central Uganda (Robusta)
- Western Uganda (Arabica & Robusta)
- Eastern Uganda (Arabica, especially Bugisu)
- Northern Uganda (Emerging Robusta farming)

Economic Importance
Uganda's total export revenue receives between 20% to 30% of its value from coffee exports.
Uganda holds the position of Africa's second major exporter of coffee behind Ethiopia.
Smallholder farmers receive employment from this agricultural sector.
Challenges Facing the Coffee Industry
Price fluctuations in global markets.
Climate change affecting yields.

Raw bean exports remain the primary export strategy because Uganda lacks sufficient processing facilities.
Pests and diseases like coffee wilt disease.
Government and Private Sector Initiatives

The Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) functions as a leading organization to support coffee production while also enhancing quality standards. The value addition sector becomes a priority for Uganda because it will enable coffee processing and branding activities which lead to direct export opportunities.
Uganda actively supports coffee promotion because most coffee production flows out of the country instead of staying within its borders.

Ugandan Coffee in the Global Market
The global market recognizes Ugandan coffee because of the enticing combination of its robust characteristics with fruity flavor notes and diverse taste profiles. The market for Ugandan Arabica coffee is attracting both specialty coffee producers and international buyers at increasing rates.