By Jumah Kakomo
The government has clarified that the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) will continue to operate until President Museveni passes the National Coffee Amendment Bill 2024 into law.
Parliament of Uganda passed the National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024 integrating the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) into the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF). This move is part of the government’s Rationalization of Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX) policy aimed at streamlining public spending and reducing redundant administrative structures.
Despite fierce opposition and extensive debates in recent months, the Bill was approved during the plenary sitting on Wednesday, 06 November 2024. The passage of the Bill was marked by delays and objections from some Opposition legislators, with members of the National Unity Platform (NUP) staging a walkout in protest earlier before the item even came on the Floor.
During the consideration of the Bill, Hon. Nathan Nandala-Mafabi (FDC, Budadiri County West) argued that dissolving UCDA would disrupt a sector critical to Uganda’s economy, proposing a three-year delay to ensure a smooth transition.
The Attorney General, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, defended the integration emphasizing that merging UCDA with MAAIF would improve coordination, reduce duplication and enhance efficiency.
He insisted that, once the Bill is gazetted, the transfer of UCDA’s responsibilities should proceed immediately, aligning with the Cabinet’s RAPEX policy approved in 2021.
On Tuesday, the Minister for agriculture, animal husbandry and fisheries, Frank Tumwebaze emphasized that existing laws and regulations governing the coffee sector remain in full force until the new law is enacted. He reassured coffee farmers and stakeholders that UCDA’s normal operations will continue uninterrupted.
“UCDA will continue to function as usual until the President signs the new law,” Minister Tumwebaze stated. “Afterward, its functions will be transferred to the Ministry of Agriculture, ensuring seamless continuity.”
Tumwebaze warned coffee farmers against engaging in illegal practices.
“I urge farmers to ignore misinformation and continue following established guidelines,” he said. “The goal is to modernize the coffee sector, improving productivity and competitiveness.”
“Let’s work together to enhance our coffee industry. Ignore rumors and focus on producing high-quality coffee. We’re strengthening regulations to benefit your livelihoods and Uganda’s economy.”
