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The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation plans to heavily invest in modern technologies aimed at increasing coffee production across Uganda.
State Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Eng. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki says this will accelerate Uganda’s agro-industrial growth.
On Friday, July 18, during a tour of the Inspire Africa Coffee Park in Rwashamaire, in Ntungamo district, the Minister encouraged farmers to increase coffee yields by embracing modern technology and value addition.
Nelson Tugume (Centre), Chief Executive Officer of Inspire Africa Coffee Park, briefs State Minister Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki (Left) and other guests on the products manufactured at the facility, alongside members of his team. (Photo by Abdulkarim Ssengendo)
During a meeting with Inspire Africa Coffee Park management, Ntungamo district leadership and local coffee farmers, he encouraged stakeholders to invest in businesses like hotels to accommodate the growing number of visitors to the park.
He inspected multiple manufacturing lines, observing processes for roasting and packaging, instant and drip coffee, cold brew canned drinks, and capsules.
He also reviewed the facility’s organic fertiliser production and coffee-based cosmetics.
Nelson Tugume (2nd left), Chief Executive Officer of Inspire Africa Coffee Park, together with members of his team, briefs State Minister Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki (Left) and other guests on the products manufactured at the facility. (Photo by Abdulkarim Ssengendo)
In a brief about the park, Nelson Tugume, Chief Executive Officer of Inspire Africa Coffee Park, said the facility is dedicated to helping farmers in Ntungamo and other regions add value to their coffee.
He reported that the establishment is rolling out an AI-enabled traceability system. The digital platform, Tugume said, will allow the park to monitor coffee quality, verify sustainable agricultural practices, and increase coffee yield and incomes.
Although Uganda ranks as Africa’s top coffee exporter, Tugume was concerned that its farm-level productivity remains significantly low. He explained that on average, a coffee tree in Uganda yields just 1.5 to 2kg of coffee, which he said is far below global competitors; Brazil produces up to 11kg per tree, Vietnam 9.5kg, and Colombia and Honduras get 7 to 8 kg.
“Africa has fertile soils and abundant water, yet agricultural productivity remains low. This new fertiliser plant aims to boost coffee yields to at least 7 kg per tree,” he stated.
According to Tugume, the facility will bring fertilisers closer to farmers, reducing reliance on imports from the Netherlands. He expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni for his unwavering support in establishing the Inspire Africa Coffee Park. He encouraged increasing local coffee consumption to help expand the market for Ugandan farmers.
James Hunter Tukahirwa, MP Kajara County, challenged farmers in Ntungamo district to get inspired by the establishment of Inspire Africa Coffee Park and grow more coffee.
Kahima Moses Mugabe-MP Ruhama East said value addition in coffee is their area of focus as a Member of Parliament, as this will propel development not only in Ntungamo but across Uganda.
Ntungamo District Chairperson Sam Mucunguzi Rwakigoba advocated for the establishment of more local factories to boost the market for coffee and create jobs for residents.