Former Executive Director of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), Dr. Emmanuel Iyamulemye has died.
Dr.Iyamulemye died on the morning of November, 18, 2025.
The news was confirmed by the Minister of Agriculture, Frank Tumwebaze, who announced the death on his official X account, describing Dr. Iyamulemye as one of the most influential figures in the transformation of Uganda’s coffee sector.
Dr. Iyamulemye is widely recognised as a central architect of Uganda’s Coffee Roadmap, the strategic plan that significantly increased national coffee production and boosted the country’s global competitiveness. During his tenure, Uganda recorded substantial growth in coffee exports and strengthened its standing among the world’s leading coffee origins.
He also championed the enhancement of coffee quality standards, expanded extension services to farmers, and pushed for international recognition of African coffee varieties. Dr. Iyamulemye was particularly known for defending Uganda’s Robusta coffee and advocating for fair classification of African coffees alongside Ethiopia on global platforms.
Minister Tumwebaze praised him as “a bold, firm and intelligent officer” whose commitment elevated Uganda’s profile in international coffee bodies.
Dr. Iyamulemye also played a pivotal role in diversifying Uganda’s export markets, including leading efforts that opened new trade opportunities in China.
Robert Byaruhanga, founder of Funzo Coffee and President of the Uganda Coffee Federation, remembered him as a visionary strategist and a passionate advocate for farmers.
Dr. Iyamulemye leaves behind a profound legacy in Uganda’s coffee fraternity—one defined by growth, global recognition, and unwavering advocacy for the country’s most prized export.
