Uganda’s coffee prices rebound, bringing relief to farmers as agriculture ministry confirms recovery

Ugandan coffee farmers are breathing a collective sigh of relief today as the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) announced a significant rebound in coffee prices, hitting anticipated levels after months of market volatility.

Minister Frank K. Tumwebaze confirmed the positive development, fulfilling a prediction made by the Ministry in June 2025. “I am pleased to confirm to you today that this prediction has come true. Coffee prices have indeed rebounded to the expected levels,” Minister Tumwebaze stated in a media brief this morning.

According to the latest market report from MAAIF’s Department of Coffee Development, farm-gate prices for Fair Average Quality (FAQ) coffee are now ranging between Ugx. 13,000 and Ugx. 14,000 per kilogram. Arabica parchment, a premium variety, is fetching Ugx. 13,500 to Ugx. 14,000 per kilogram.

The Minister recalled his earlier brief in June, which highlighted the severe challenges faced by the sector, including a sharp decline in prices due to global demand and supply imbalances, and oversupply from major producers such as Brazil, Vietnam, and India. At that time, MAAIF had assured stakeholders of diligent efforts to safeguard the coffee sector and stabilize farm-gate prices.

Minister Tumwebaze attributed the current recovery to a combination of factors, including the Ministry’s commitment, the unwavering confidence of international buyers in Uganda’s quality coffee, and the commendable resilience shown by the nation’s farmers.

As the sector embraces this positive turnaround, Minister Tumwebaze urged all farmers and actors in the coffee value chain to continue focusing on key practices to ensure sustained prosperity. These include:

Maintaining high quality standards at harvesting, drying, and processing to safeguard Uganda’s reputation as a producer of premium coffee.

Adopting good agricultural practices to increase productivity and quality.

Strengthening farmer organizations and cooperatives to enhance bargaining power.

Exploring value addition opportunities to reduce vulnerability to international price fluctuations.

The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the interests of coffee farmers. The sector remains a vital cornerstone of the national economy and a source of livelihood for millions of households across the country.

“I urge you all therefore, to maintain the momentum and most importantly to continue adhering to correct practices in production, harvesting and post-harvest,” Minister Tumwebaze concluded, emphasizing the collaborative effort required for the long-term success of Uganda’s coffee industry.