Uganda’s coffee exports rose sharply in February, driven by increased production, according to official data, reinforcing the country’s position as Africa’s leading exporter of the commodity.
The East African nation shipped 651,933 60-kilogram bags of coffee during the month, marking a 17.3 percent increase compared to the same period last year, the agriculture ministry said in a report released late Thursday.
The ministry attributed the growth to improved output, although it did not elaborate on specific factors behind the higher production.
“Coffee export volumes during the month were higher than February of last year on account of increased coffee production,” the ministry said.
Coffee is Uganda’s top foreign exchange earner, playing a critical role in supporting rural livelihoods and stabilising the economy. The sector employs millions of smallholder farmers, with production largely dominated by robusta beans, alongside a growing share of arabica.
Over a 12-month period to February, export earnings surged to 2.5 billion dollars, up from 1.6 billion dollars recorded in the previous year, underscoring strong global demand and improved supply.
Uganda has in recent years intensified efforts to boost coffee production, targeting an ambitious output of 20 million bags annually. Authorities have rolled out programmes to distribute seedlings, rehabilitate ageing plantations and improve farming practices in a bid to raise yields.
Favourable weather conditions in key growing regions have also supported production, alongside government-backed initiatives aimed at expanding acreage under cultivation.
The rise in exports comes amid heightened competition in global coffee markets, where African producers are seeking to strengthen their foothold. Uganda remains the continent’s largest coffee exporter, ahead of Ethiopia, with both countries relying heavily on the crop for export revenues.
Analysts say the increase in shipments reflects not only improved harvests but also sustained demand in international markets, particularly in Europe, which remains a major destination for Ugandan coffee.
However, the sector continues to face challenges, including price volatility on global markets, climate-related risks and limited value addition. Most of Uganda’s coffee is exported in raw form, leaving the country exposed to fluctuations in international prices.
The government has been pushing for greater local processing to enhance earnings and create jobs, including incentives for investors in coffee roasting and packaging.
Industry stakeholders have also called for improved infrastructure and access to financing to support farmers and exporters, particularly in rural areas where logistical constraints can hinder market access.
Despite these challenges, the latest figures point to a strong performance for Uganda’s coffee industry, which remains a cornerstone of the country’s export economy.
With production on the rise and global demand holding steady, officials are optimistic the sector will continue to deliver growth in the coming months, although much will depend on weather patterns and price trends in international markets.
