While the FDC supports merging consumptive agencies and entities with their parent ministries, we strongly oppose the Government’s unrealistic efforts to integrate the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) back into the Ministry of Agriculture.
We believe that if this rationalization is successful, it will reduce UCDA to a mere desk within the ministry.
We urge the Government to prioritize the interests of coffee farmers and stakeholders. Given UCDA’s achievements—such as enhancing coffee quality and increasing exports to a record-breaking $1.14 billion (approximately UGX 6 trillion)—these gains should not be compromised.
We are concerned about the Ministry of Agriculture’s competence, especially given its record of mismanagement in key sectors. For instance, the fishing industry has suffered from maladministration, prompting the President to deploy the UPDF to oversee it. Likewise, the animal husbandry sector has faced challenges, including allegations of embezzling funds meant for foot-and-mouth disease vaccines.
The FDC’s opposition to the UCDA merger with MAAIF is based on the following key considerations:
AUTONOMY AND EXPERTISE: UCDA’s specialized focus on coffee development has led to improved regulation and quality, equipping coffee farmers with essential skills in planting, handling, harvesting, and storage. Merging it with the Ministry of Agriculture could dilute this expertise.
FARMER INTERESTS: UCDA’s efforts in promoting farmer registration, geo-location, and traceability should continue uninterrupted. We believe that MAAIF lacks the technical competence and capacity to handle these critical tasks.
ECONOMIC BENEFITS: Coffee exports are vital to Uganda’s economy. UCDA has already faced challenges due to underfunding, and placing it under the Ministry of Agriculture could further hinder its core functions and mandate, worsening rather than improving its impact.
OUR PROPOSAL:
1. Maintain UCDA’s autonomy to preserve its expertise and focus on coffee development. UCDA’s track record warrants greater funding, not a reduction in its mandate.
2. Strengthen partnerships between UCDA, the Ministry of Agriculture, and other stakeholders to improve coordination and resource allocation.
3. Prioritize farmer-centric policies that ensure fair prices, improved quality, and sustainable production practices.
By adopting a thoughtful and inclusive approach, the Government can balance rationalization needs with the interests of coffee stakeholders and Uganda’s economic growth. We urge coffee farmers to remain engaged in coffee production as we continue to advocate for the industry’s future.
