Uganda Rises as Top Coffee Exporter in Africa

When coffee farmers in Uganda handpick only ripe beans, they’re contributing to a national success story that’s reshaping Africa’s agricultural exports. For months, the country’s coffee sector has been posting strong international results—and those numbers tell a bigger story about growth, potential, and global competitiveness.

Yes, Uganda is now among the top 10 coffee-exporting nations globally, having jumped from 13th in 2013 to 10th in 2014. With sustained performance, it could break into the top five producers worldwide within a few years.

Uganda’s Coffee Export Growth in Numbers

According to the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), between June and July 2014, coffee exports rose significantly. The country shipped 403,381 60kg bags in July, up 16% from 335,405 bags in June. In value, that’s a jump from $35.05 million (126 billion UGX) to $43.07 million (154 billion UGX)—an 18% increase.

The breakdown by coffee type in July 2014 was 349,486 bags of Robusta (worth $35.05 million) and 53,895 bags of Arabica (worth $8.02 million). This export surge contributed $43 million in revenue for the month.

Uganda vs. Ethiopia: Africa’s Coffee Leaders

In the 2014–2015 season, Uganda exported 24.4 million and 27.16 million 60kg bags in separate reported periods, compared to Ethiopia’s 19.7 million and 22.1 million bags. That puts Uganda ahead of Ethiopia as Africa’s leading coffee exporter during those months.

The country has cultivated a strong foothold in the global market, consistently outperforming many other African nations in both volume and export earnings.

What’s Driving the Export Surge?

The July 2014 harvest, primarily gathered in regions like Masaka and southern Uganda, fed into a strong monthly export performance. However, UCDA’s August 2014 report projected a slowdown, with expected exports of around 320,000 bags for that month as seasonal picking declines in those areas.

Even with this expected dip, the overall trend remains positive, fuelled by high demand for both Robusta and Arabica originating from Ugandan farms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What rank was Uganda in global coffee exports in 2014?

In 2014, Uganda ranked 10th in the world for coffee exports, having moved up from 13th place the previous year. This was a significant jump that highlighted its growing role in the global coffee trade.

How much coffee did Uganda export in July 2014?

Uganda exported 403,381 60kg bags of coffee in July 2014, which was a 16% increase from the 335,405 bags exported in June 2014.

What was the value of Uganda’s July 2014 coffee exports?

The value of Uganda’s coffee exports in July 2014 was $43.07 million, up from $35.05 million in June 2014—a 18% rise in revenue.

How does Uganda’s coffee production compare to Ethiopia’s?

In the 2014–2015 season, Uganda exported 24.4 million and 27.16 million 60kg bags, compared to Ethiopia’s 19.7 million and 22.1 million bags, making Uganda Africa’s leading coffee exporter in those periods.

What types of coffee does Uganda export?

Uganda exports both Robusta and Arabica coffee. In July 2014, 349,486 bags were Robusta, and 53,895 bags were Arabica, showing a strong presence in both categories.

Is Uganda’s coffee export growth expected to continue?

While exports may slow temporarily due to seasonal harvest changes—projected at 320,000 bags for August 2014—the overall trend indicates continued growth, with potential for Uganda to join the world’s top five coffee producers soon.

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