The Uganda Coffee Bill is a piece of proposed legislation aimed at improving and regulating the coffee sector in Uganda.
Coffee is one of Uganda’s major exports, and the bill seeks to address several issues affecting the industry, from production to marketing and export. It includes provisions for:
1. Strengthening the Coffee Sector: The bill aims to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of Uganda’s coffee industry, including addressing issues related to coffee production, processing, and value addition.
2. Establishing a Coffee Authority: One of the key elements is the creation of a National Coffee Authority to oversee the coffee sector, regulate standards, and ensure the growth of the coffee value chain.
This authority would work to improve quality, manage research and development, and advocate for the interests of coffee farmers.
3. Improving Farmer Incomes: The bill emphasizes enhancing the livelihoods of coffee farmers by promoting better farming practices, fair prices, and access to financing and markets.
This includes programs for better post-harvest handling, processing techniques, and product diversification.
4. Coffee Marketing and Export: The bill outlines measures for the marketing of Ugandan coffee, both locally and internationally, ensuring that farmers receive a fair share of the profits from their produce.
It also focuses on improving export processes and ensuring that Uganda’s coffee meets international standards.
The proposed bill has generated significant interest as the coffee sector is a key part of Uganda’s economy, with the country being one of the largest producers of coffee in Africa.
However, the bill has also faced criticism and debate, especially from smallholder farmers and stakeholders concerned about how the new regulations may impact them.
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