Uganda’s economy receives a significant boost as the value of its coffee exports surged in January, reflecting strong global demand and favorable market conditions. The latest figures from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) show that the East African nation exported coffee worth $156.5 million in January, marking a remarkable 83.4% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge underscores Uganda’s growing influence in the global coffee market and its position as Africa’s leading exporter of the commodity, ahead of Ethiopia.

According to the ministry’s report, Uganda shipped 550,341 60-kilogram bags of coffee during the month, a 14.4% increase in volume compared to January 2023. While the higher export volumes contributed to the impressive revenue growth, the primary driver was a sharp rise in global coffee prices. Market analysts attribute the price surge to prolonged dry weather conditions in key coffee-producing countries, particularly Brazil and Vietnam, which have constrained supply and fueled international demand.

Uganda’s coffee sector has long been a pillar of the nation’s economy, providing livelihoods for millions of smallholder farmers and generating substantial foreign exchange earnings. Industry stakeholders remain optimistic that sustained global demand, coupled with government initiatives to support coffee farmers, will further strengthen Uganda’s position in the international market.

As coffee remains one of Uganda’s top foreign exchange earners, the surge in exports is expected to positively impact economic growth, strengthen the country’s balance of payments, and enhance rural incomes. With ongoing efforts to boost production and explore new markets, Uganda’s coffee sector is well-positioned to sustain its upward trajectory, reinforcing the nation’s status as a key player in the global coffee trade