The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has called on Ugandan coffee farmers to register ahead of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which comes into effect on December 30.
The regulation is set to impact Uganda’s coffee exports, and Mayiga has emphasized the importance of compliance to protect the livelihoods of millions who depend on coffee farming.
Speaking during a meeting with key stakeholders in the coffee sector at Bulange Mengo on Friday, Mayiga highlighted the benefits of the registration exercise, assuring farmers that it is necessary to secure access to the lucrative European Union market, which offers better prices and expanded opportunities for Ugandan coffee.
“The European Union’s regulations for coffee exports are designed to protect the livelihoods of over 15 million Ugandans who depend on coffee. It is our collective responsibility—government, UCDA, and all stakeholders—to ensure compliance with these regulations, safeguarding the well-being of our farmers and the entire coffee industry,” Mayiga stated.
Mayiga assured farmers that the registration exercise would not lead to additional taxes or levies. Instead, it aims to ensure that Uganda’s coffee meets the EU’s stringent standards.
“The registration of farmers is crucial for their benefit,” he emphasized, warning that failure to comply with the regulations could result in falling coffee prices starting January 2025, with devastating consequences for the more than 7 million Ugandans who rely on coffee farming for their livelihood.
The Katikkiro underscored the transformative impact of coffee on the Buganda community, citing its contribution to improving the lives of many farmers by providing income for essential needs such as education and healthcare.
He also highlighted the importance of enhanced coffee traceability, which would allow buyers to track the origin of their coffee, fostering greater trust and confidence in the market.
“Let me assure you, there are no hidden motives behind this registration exercise. We are not planning to impose taxes or any other mischief on you. This is purely for your benefit and the country’s benefit,” Mayiga clarified, dispelling rumors of any hidden agenda.
Fred Luzinda Mukasa, the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) board representative, praised the Kingdom of Buganda for its efforts in promoting coffee cultivation, which has significantly boosted monthly harvests.
During the meeting, a grant was approved to develop 30 acres of coffee through the Buganda Cultural and Development Foundation (BUCADEF) to further enhance production and improve farmer livelihoods.
UCDA also presented a moisture meter to the Katikkiro to help monitor coffee quality, ensuring that Ugandan beans meet the high standards required by the EU market.
Gerald Kyalo, Director of Development Services at UCDA, noted that Uganda’s coffee exports to the EU account for 63% of total exports, and that the new regulations will have a direct impact on the country’s coffee trade.
Kyalo outlined the EUDR requirements, including submitting detailed land-use maps, complying with local legislation, and providing a due diligence statement for the entire coffee supply chain.
He highlighted Uganda’s progress in complying with the regulations, such as establishing an EUDR task force, engaging international partners, and developing an action plan.
The country is now in the final stages of rolling out a nationwide coffee value chain registration exercise, which will form the basis for enhanced traceability. Kyalo called for full cooperation from all industry players, as well as cultural, religious, administrative, and political leaders, to ensure the success of the registration initiative.
The new EU regulations aim to promote sustainable coffee production and protect the environment, and Uganda’s coffee farmers are urged to take proactive steps to comply, securing their access to one of the most valuable markets in the world.
