Rwenzori, Mount Elgon, West Nile, Bugisu, and South Western Uganda
Altitude Range
1200 - 2300 masl
Annual Exports
270000 - 270000 tons
Uganda, often called the “Pearl of Africa,” is quickly gaining recognition in the coffee world for its rich, diverse coffee offerings. Known for both its indigenous Robusta and high-altitude Arabica beans, Uganda’s unique landscapes - from the volcanic soils of Mount Elgon to the lush, high-elevation regions of Rwenzori - yield coffees with distinct, vibrant flavours. With a longstanding coffee heritage and an increasing focus on quality and sustainability, Uganda is carving out a space on the global coffee stage, offering something special for both commercial and specialty markets.
Terroir
Uganda's coffee-growing regions are known for their diverse and fertile landscapes, which are ideal for cultivating both Arabica and Robusta coffee varieties. The high-altitude areas, such as the Rwenzori Mountains and the slopes of Mount Elgon, provide the perfect environment for Arabica coffee, with altitudes reaching up to 2,300 meters. The volcanic soils found in these regions are rich in minerals, lending a distinctive flavour profile to Ugandan coffee. Ugandan Arabica is often characterised by bright acidity, a medium to full body, and notes of fruit and floral undertones, while the lower-elevation Robusta grown in central and western Uganda is known for its strong, bold flavours and earthy undertones. This diversity in growing conditions contributes to Uganda's reputation as a source of both high-quality Arabica and Robusta beans.
History
Coffee production in Uganda has deep roots, especially with Robusta, which is indigenous to the region. Robusta has been cultivated by local communities for centuries, both as a cash crop and as a part of cultural traditions. However, it was only during colonial times, in the early 20th century, that coffee production was commercialized, with the British promoting the cultivation of both Robusta and imported Arabica varieties. Today, Uganda is one of the largest coffee producers in Africa and the leading exporter of Robusta coffee on the continent. In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on specialty coffee, particularly in the Arabica-growing regions, as Uganda seeks to position itself in the specialty coffee market. Programs to improve quality and yield, combined with a focus on fair trade and sustainability, are helping Uganda gain recognition for the quality of its coffee on the global stage.
Uganda’s unique terroir, combined with its rich coffee-growing heritage, has made it an increasingly exciting source for coffee connoisseurs around the world. The country’s dual focus on Robusta and Arabica ensures that Uganda can cater to both commercial and specialty coffee markets, bringing diverse flavors and profiles to coffee lovers everywhere.
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