Govt Warns Against Poor Coffee Harvesting Practices, Vows Strict Enforcement

The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing coffee quality standards following the Rationalisation of Government Agencies and Expenditure (RAPEX) program.

In a press statement released today, MAAIF warned that all regulatory mechanisms previously under the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) remain fully operational, and penalties will be imposed on those violating coffee quality standards.

"We are deeply concerned about reports of premature coffee harvesting and poor drying practices, which compromise the quality and value of our exports. The Ministry will take robust measures to protect Uganda’s strong position in the global coffee market," said Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama, Permanent Secretary at MAAIF.

Uganda’s coffee exports remain strong, with 413,221 60-kg bags valued at USD 115.02 million exported in December 2024—an increase from 400,536 bags worth USD 108.91 million in November.

The country continues to supply key markets, including Italy, Germany, the USA, China, India, Algeria, and Morocco.

Kasura-Kyomukama urged all stakeholders to adhere to best practices in coffee production and handling.

"We call upon all coffee farmers, traders, and processors to follow proper agronomic and post-harvest practices. Any violations will face strict enforcement," he emphasised.

The Ministry also encouraged the public to report poor agronomic and harvesting practices to the Assistant Commissioner for Coffee Production at 0312 260470 to help safeguard Uganda’s coffee export reputation.

Kasura-Kyomukama also dismissed recent claims by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that Uganda lacks proper pesticide regulation, calling their allegations "alarmist and misleading."

In response to a CSO report titled “Hazardous Pesticides: The Silent Killer in Uganda,” he stated that Uganda follows internationally recognised pesticide management guidelines and is committed to reducing risks associated with hazardous chemicals.

"The claim that Uganda lacks adequate pesticide regulation is incorrect. The country has a robust framework under the Agricultural Chemicals (Control) Act (2006) and the National Agrochemicals Register, which regulate pesticide manufacture, importation, distribution, and use," said Kasura-Kyomukama.

He emphasised that pesticides, when used properly, are essential for controlling pests and diseases that threaten Uganda’s agricultural sector.

He also warned that banning key pesticides, such as Glyphosate and Chlorpyrifos, without viable alternatives, could result in massive crop losses, food insecurity, and economic setbacks for farmers.

MAAIF outlined several measures to ensure pesticide safety and enforcement, including:

Working 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 pesticides and unapproved active ingredients.

Conducting quality checks in agricultural produce in partnership with the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS).

Training agrochemical stakeholders Educating over 2,500 agrochemical dealers and extension workers on safe pesticide use and counterfeit detection.

Enhancing laboratory infrastructure Expanding facilities for pesticide residue analysis and product verification.

Addressing concerns over Highly Hazardous Pesticides (HHPs), Kasura-Kyomukama stated that Uganda is actively reviewing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies to reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides.

Additionally, a special agro-chemicals committee has been set up to assess potentially harmful pesticides for possible phase-out.

While acknowledging the role of CSOs in public advocacy, MAAIF cautioned against spreading misinformation that could damage public trust.

"Alarmist narratives do not help. We urge all stakeholders, including CSOs, to engage in constructive dialogue and support science-based, practical solutions for pest and disease management," Kasura-Kyomukama said.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health, protecting the environment, promoting sustainable agriculture, and maintaining Uganda’s competitiveness in global agricultural exports.