By Jumah Kakomo
Uganda’s parliament is set to debate the Rationalization of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) tomorrow, a move that has sparked intense discussion among stakeholders. The proposed merger of UCDA with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF) has been met with resistance from some lawmakers and coffee farmers, who argue that it would undermine UCDA’s effectiveness and expertise in promoting Uganda’s coffee industry.
Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, Frank Tumwebaze, has defended the rationalization plan, stating that it aims to eliminate duplication of services and consolidate resources. He emphasized that the ministry has the capacity to handle UCDA’s functions, citing the example of the National Coffee Research Institute (NACORI), which is already under the ministry.
However, opponents of the merger, including the Bugisu Parliamentary Group and the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus, have expressed concerns about the potential impact on coffee exports and the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. They argue that UCDA’s international accreditation is crucial for Uganda’s coffee exports and that transferring its functions to MAAIF could jeopardize this accreditation.
The minister of information, communications, technology, and national guidance ICT Dr. Chris Baryomunsi has issued a stern warning to legislators ahead of tomorrow’s parliamentary debate on the Rationalization of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA). He urged them to maintain order and avoid disruptions, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue in addressing the nation’s pressing issues.
“I urge legislators to engage in respectful and constructive discussions. I warn against disruptions that could hinder the debate’s progress and effectiveness,” Baryomunsi said.
According to Baryomunsi, the government is indeed planning to merge the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF). This move is part of a broader effort to streamline services, consolidate functions, and improve efficiency.
