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Uganda’s coffee industry is undergoing a historic transformation, marked by unprecedented growth and record-breaking performance. The country has not only reinforced its status as Africa’s top producer of Robusta coffee but has also emerged as one of the world’s leading exporters.
Government figures reveal that in May 2025, Uganda exported 47,606.7 tonnes of coffee, earning nearly USD 245 million—a national milestone. This momentum accelerated by July, with shipments climbing to 59,826 tonnes and revenue reaching USD 250.6 million, according to the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA).
By comparison, Ethiopia—long regarded as Africa’s coffee powerhouse—exported 38,663 tonnes that same month. However, its revenue edged higher at USD 268 million, driven by the higher market value of Arabica coffee. UCDA credits Uganda’s record performance to a robust harvest in key regions like Greater Masaka and the South West. Moreover, the rise in earnings isn’t solely due to volume but also improved quality and growing international demand.
Uganda’s rise comes at a time of disruption in the global coffee supply chain. Adverse weather in major producing nations like Brazil and Vietnam has slashed output, creating a vacuum that Uganda has capitalized on.
“We’ve maintained a steady annual growth rate of around 3%,” says trade expert Kenneth Barigye. “With government backing and strategic investments, Uganda is now outpacing traditional heavyweights like Ethiopia.”
The coffee boom is being felt beyond farms. At Jada Coffee’s processing plant in Kampala, operations are running at full tilt to meet demand from both domestic and export markets.
“We source directly from farmers, and global demand is driving up prices,” says Jackie Arinda, CEO of Jada Coffee. “This surge is creating jobs, and Uganda’s café culture is beginning to mirror booming trends seen in places like China. We aim to bring that same energy here.”
Ugandan coffee is gaining traction across key markets:
- Within Africa: Sudan, Algeria, Morocco
- Globally: Italy, Germany, Belgium, India, Spain, Vietnam, and the U.S.
Looking ahead, global coffee production is projected to reach 178.7 million bags in the 2025-26 season—a 4.3 million bag increase year-on-year. Countries like Ethiopia, Vietnam, and Indonesia are expected to rebound with stronger harvests. However, exports are only predicted to rise modestly by 700,000 bags, as Brazil and Colombia continue to underperform.
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This scenario could allow Uganda and other African nations to maintain a competitive edge in the short to medium term. To sustain this momentum, Uganda has set a bold goal: producing over 20 million bags annually by 2035. Key strategies include improved post-harvest quality management to meet stringent global standards. Uganda’s coffee renaissance signals a new era—one where Africa plays a leading role in shaping the global coffee narrative.
