The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding coffee quality standards following the implementation of the Rationalisation of Government Agencies and Expenditure (RAPEX) program.
In a press statement released today, the ministry emphasized that all regulatory mechanisms previously managed by the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) remain in full force. Violators of coffee quality standards will face strict penalties.
MAAIF raised concerns over premature coffee harvesting and poor drying methods, which compromise Uganda’s coffee quality and international market reputation. Permanent Secretary Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama stressed the importance of protecting Uganda’s global coffee position by enforcing rigorous quality controls.
Uganda’s coffee exports remain strong, with 413,221 60-kg bags valued at USD 115.02 million exported in December 2024, marking an increase from 400,536 bags worth USD 108.91 million in November. The country continues to supply major markets, including Italy, Germany, the USA, China, India, Algeria, and Morocco.
Kasura-Kyomukama urged all stakeholders in the coffee industry, including farmers, traders, and processors, to adhere to best practices in agronomy and post-harvest handling. He warned that violations will result in strict enforcement measures to maintain the integrity of Uganda’s coffee exports.
To strengthen compliance, MAAIF has encouraged the public to report poor agronomic practices to the Assistant Commissioner for Coffee Production via 0312 260470.
MAAIF Dismisses CSO Claims on Pesticide Regulation
Kasura-Kyomukama also dismissed allegations by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that Uganda lacks proper pesticide regulations, labeling the claims alarmist and misleading.
A recent CSO report, “Hazardous Pesticides: The Silent Killer in Uganda,” alleged weak pesticide oversight. However, MAAIF countered these claims by reaffirming Uganda’s robust regulatory framework, governed by the Agricultural Chemicals (Control) Act (2006) and the National Agrochemicals Register.
Kasura-Kyomukama highlighted that Uganda follows internationally recognized pesticide management guidelines, ensuring responsible pesticide manufacture, importation, distribution, and use. He underscored that pesticides, when applied correctly, play a vital role in controlling pests and diseases that threaten Uganda’s agricultural sector.
He warned that banning key pesticides such as Glyphosate and Chlorpyrifos without viable alternatives could lead to severe crop losses, food insecurity, and economic hardships for farmers.
Strengthening Pesticide Safety and Enforcement
To enhance pesticide safety, MAAIF outlined several ongoing enforcement measures, including:
- Strengthening partnerships with the Agriculture Police, Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), National Drug Authority (NDA), and local governments to combat counterfeit pesticides.
- Finalizing legal amendments to target fake agrochemicals and unapproved active ingredients.
- Conducting quality checks on agricultural produce in collaboration with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS).
- Training 2,500 agrochemical dealers and extension workers on safe pesticide use and counterfeit detection.
- Expanding laboratory infrastructure to improve pesticide residue analysis and product verification.
As part of Uganda’s commitment to sustainable agriculture, Kasura-Kyomukama noted that the government is actively reviewing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides. Additionally, a special agro-chemicals committee has been established to assess potentially harmful pesticides for phased elimination.
MAAIF Calls for Constructive Dialogue on Agricultural Policies
While acknowledging the role of CSOs in public advocacy, MAAIF cautioned against the spread of misinformation that could erode public trust. The ministry urged all stakeholders, including civil society, researchers, and industry players, to engage in science-based discussions to develop practical, long-term solutions for pest and disease management.
Kasura-Kyomukama reaffirmed the government’s commitment to:
- Safeguarding public health
- Protecting the environment
- Promoting sustainable agriculture
- Maintaining Uganda’s competitiveness in global agricultural exports
By enforcing stringent coffee quality standards and ensuring responsible pesticide use, Uganda continues to position itself as a leader in high-value agricultural exports while balancing economic growth and environmental sustainability.
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