Uganda’s coffee sector is receiving renewed international attention as a German delegation continues a Coffee Familiarization Trip aimed at strengthening production systems, improving quality standards, and expanding export opportunities. The visit, led by the Uganda Embassy in Berlin, is designed to deepen cooperation between Uganda and Germany while unlocking greater value across the coffee value chain.

The programme began with a technical engagement at the National Coffee Research Institute (NaCORI), where officials outlined Uganda’s coffee development strategy and its growing role in rural transformation. The institute highlighted coffee as a key contributor to household incomes and emphasized ongoing efforts in research, development of resilient varieties, and investment in quality improvement. Officials also pointed to Uganda’s rising global coffee position and its increasing competitiveness in export markets, alongside emerging opportunities in specialty coffee, traceability, and value addition.

The delegation later participated in a coffee cupping session in Bugolobi organized by the Commercial Coffee Producers Association of Uganda (CCPAU), which brings together industry players across the coffee value chain. The session focused on quality assessment and strengthening Uganda’s positioning in premium international markets. The day concluded with further engagement and networking among stakeholders in the sector.

On the second day, discussions shifted to trade and market expansion during a meeting at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry & Fisheries. The Minister of State for Agriculture, Fred Bwiino Kyakulaga, highlighted Uganda’s diverse coffee varieties and the country’s strong agricultural foundation supported by fertile soils and favorable climatic conditions that enhance productivity with minimal intervention.

Ambassador Stephen Mubiru underscored the strong economic ties between Uganda and Germany, noting that bilateral trade stands at nearly USD 500 million, with Uganda’s exports to Germany accounting for approximately USD 300 million, largely driven by coffee. Germany remains among the top three importers of Ugandan coffee, reflecting its importance as a key strategic market.

With Germany hosting around 800 coffee roasters serving an estimated 84 million consumers each consuming an average of three cups daily, officials emphasized the significant opportunity for Uganda to increase its market share. The focus of the ongoing engagement is therefore on strengthening partnerships, improving value addition, and enhancing Uganda’s competitiveness in the global coffee industry to secure a larger share of the German and broader European market.