Uganda’s coffee sector gains momentum as company supports farmers with seedlings

22 May 2026, 11:02 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Uganda continues to gain international recognition as one of Africa’s leading coffee-producing nations, celebrated for its premium-quality Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties grown in fertile volcanic soils, favorable climatic conditions, and high-altitude regions.

According to the Independent Presidential Advisor on Trade, Dr. Jim Tubuhaburwa, Uganda’s coffee industry holds enormous potential in value addition and export growth, particularly through increased support to farmers and investment in processing before export.

In a statement released together with his team, Dr. Tubuhaburwa highlighted the commitment of Thomas JM Global Export to helping farmers and stakeholders within the coffee sector improve value addition before exportation. He noted that such efforts are expected to increase national export earnings while improving the livelihoods of coffee farmers across the country.

“At the forefront of this growing industry is Thomas JM Global Export, a company committed not only to exporting high-quality Ugandan coffee to international markets but also to empowering local farmers and strengthening sustainable agricultural production,” Dr. Tubuhaburwa explained.

As part of its farmer support initiative ahead of the June and July planting season, the company has distributed coffee seedlings to farming communities in Mbarara, Kasese, and Bundibugyo.

The three districts are among Uganda’s most productive coffee-growing regions and are known for producing coffee with unique flavor profiles highly sought after in international specialty and commercial markets.

Dr. Tubuhaburwa noted that the mountainous regions of Kasese and Bundibugyo are particularly renowned for their high-quality Arabica coffee, characterized by rich chocolate tones, fruity notes, and wine-like acidity that appeal to premium buyers across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Meanwhile, Mbarara’s favorable climatic conditions support the production of strong Robusta coffee with deep body, natural sweetness, and excellent crema qualities preferred for espresso blends and large-scale roasting.

According to company representatives, the seedling distribution initiative forms part of a broader strategy aimed at improving coffee yields, promoting sustainable farming practices, and creating long-term economic opportunities for rural farming communities.

“By supporting farmers with quality seedlings and encouraging sustainable cultivation methods, Thomas JM Global Export is contributing to the development of a reliable and traceable coffee value chain capable of meeting increasing global demand for ethically sourced and sustainably produced coffee,” the company stated.

The company also revealed plans to strengthen direct relationships with international coffee buyers, importers, roasters, and distributors seeking authentic Ugandan coffee with guaranteed quality and origin.

Uganda’s coffee sector remains one of the country’s most important agricultural exports, supporting millions of households and contributing significantly to national economic growth.

Initiatives such as these continue to position Uganda as a competitive and trusted supplier in the global coffee industry. Through investment in farmers and commitment to quality, Thomas JM Global Export is helping shape a stronger future for Ugandan coffee from the farms of western Uganda to coffee cups around the world.

Dr. Tubuhaburwa further emphasized that with increased government support and investment in value addition, Uganda’s coffee industry has the potential to achieve even greater growth on the global market.