President Museveni Backs Modern Coffee Factory in Ntungamo, Champions Value Addition

President Museveni has advocated for value addition in coffee production and export, pledging increased support for Inspire Africa Group.

During a project appraisal visit in Rweshamaire, Ntungamo District, where Uganda’s first modern coffee facility is under construction, the President warned “naysayers” who oppose investment in the coffee value chain.

The project, owned by coffee entrepreneur Nelson Tugume, has sparked controversial debate within the coffee sector regarding its funding. However, Museveni has firmly supported it.

The factory is expected to commence full production by December 2024.

Uganda aims to export 20 million bags of coffee by 2030, with the goal of generating close to $5 billion, significantly above the current $1 billion from green bean exports.

Mr. Museveni has shifted his focus to value addition and initiated deliberate investments in the modern coffee facility in Ntungamo.

During his appraisal visit, the President toured the factory, which will produce a wide range of products including instant coffee capsules, cold brew, and cosmetics.

He criticized Africans for remaining passive while non-coffee growing countries reap significant profits from the crop.

“The global market generates $450 billion, while we as Africans collect only $2.5 billion, and Uganda gets just $1 billion – we need more,” he stated.

The President praised Inspire Africa Group and pledged ongoing government support for the project’s success.

“The naysayers don’t know who they are dealing with,” he warned. “We are going to invest so that you don’t miss another season. Now you should be buying coffee.”

The Ntungamo coffee project has not been without controversy, with many questioning the accountability of taxpayer money used by local investor Tugume.

“Your Excellency, I am not a thief,” Tugume declared. “This is where the project stands.”