Mzee Yoweri Museveni – the President of the Republic of Uganda (PHOTO/Courtesy).
KAMPALA – President Yoweri Museveni is set to address the nation tonight at 8 p.m. on matters of national importance.
In his anticipated address, he is expected to highlight on the recently passed National Coffee Amendment Bill 2024. This bill has been a topic of discussion among Ugandans, especially coffee farmers, as it aims to dissolve the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) and transfer its functions to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF).
The bill, which was passed by Parliament on November 6, 2024, is intended to reform Uganda’s coffee sector, a significant contributor to the country’s economy. Uganda is the largest coffee exporter in Africa and the second-largest coffee producer on the continent, after Ethiopia.
Key Provisions of the National Coffee Amendment Bill 2024:
Dissolution of UCDA: The bill dissolves the Uganda Coffee Development Authority, transferring its responsibilities to the Ministry of Agriculture.
Rationalization of Government Agencies: The bill aims to implement the Government Policy on the Rationalization of Government Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX), adopted by the Cabinet in February 2021 ¹.
Improved Regulation and Production: The bill may focus on enhancing regulation, production, and market opportunities for coffee farmers.
Many Ugandans have expressed concerns about the bill, citing potential negative impacts on coffee farmers and the sector as a whole. Some argue that dissolving UCDA may lead to bureaucratic inefficiencies and corruption. Others suggest that the Ministry of Agriculture may not be equipped to handle the responsibilities currently managed by UCDA.
Tonight’s address by President Museveni is expected to shed more light on the implications of the bill and the government’s plans for the coffee sector.
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