Following the rationalisation of government agencies and expenditure, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) has taken over the functions of the Cotton Development Organization (CDO), Dairy Development Authority (DDA), National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS), and Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA).
This transition aims to streamline operations and enhance efficiency in Uganda’s agricultural sector.
To ensure smooth operations, particularly in critical areas such as extension services and export processes, MAAIF has retained the technical staff from these agencies.
In a report dated February 6, 2025, Permanent Secretary Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama reassured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to strengthening Uganda’s agriculture and boosting export revenues.
“The government is committed to the future of Uganda’s agriculture, particularly in improving export revenues from products such as coffee. We urge all stakeholders to adhere to best practices to facilitate this growth,” said Maj. Gen. Kasura-Kyomukama.
However, MAAIF has raised concerns over poor post-harvest practices in some areas, particularly premature coffee harvesting and improper drying of Fair Average Quality (FAQ) coffee, which could lead to losses in export value.
The Ministry has emphasised that all regulatory mechanisms previously enforced by UCDA remain in place, and violations will result in penalties.
“The public is hereby informed that all enforcement mechanisms that existed under UCDA remain in full effect. All coffee value chain actors must comply with these regulations to avoid penalties. The Ministry will employ robust measures to ensure Uganda’s strong export position remains intact,” Maj. Gen. Kasura-Kyomukama emphasised.
Despite these concerns, Uganda’s coffee exports continue to perform well in international markets. In December 2024, the country exported 413,221 60-kg bags of coffee, valued at USD 115.02 million, marking an increase from November’s 400,536 bags worth USD 108.91 million. Key export destinations include Italy, Germany, the USA, China, India, Algeria, and Morocco.
“These figures highlight Uganda’s resilience in agricultural trade and our commitment to maintaining quality in exports,” said Maj. Gen. Kasura-Kyomukama.
The Ministry has urged all coffee value chain actors to uphold best agronomic and harvesting practices. Reports of poor agricultural practices should be directed to the Assistant Commissioner of Coffee Production for prompt action to safeguard Uganda’s export reputation.
