By Johnson Kanyesige
The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has urged the government to adopt a “thoughtful and inclusive approach” when considering reforms to Uganda’s coffee sector.
The opposition party argues that a balanced strategy could safeguard the interests of coffee stakeholders while bolstering Uganda’s economic growth.
On Thursday, Parliament postponed a decision on the future of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), the body responsible for overseeing both on-farm and off-farm activities within the coffee value chain.
Under the proposed National Coffee (Amendment) Bill 2024, the government plans to merge the UCDA with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF), transferring its functions to a department within the ministry.
The FDC, however, warns that this move could jeopardize the quality and growth of Uganda’s coffee industry, a key economic pillar.
Speaking on behalf of the party, Deputy Secretary for Publicity-Publications, Walid Mulindwa Lubega, outlined several objections.
“We believe that merging UCDA with the Ministry of Agriculture could dilute the specialised expertise that UCDA has developed over the years in coffee production, harvesting, storage, and all aspects of the value chain,” Lubega stated.
He added that UCDA’s ongoing efforts to support farmers should not be disrupted, as they are crucial for maintaining the growth and competitiveness of Uganda’s coffee industry.
