By Patriot Corps
Uganda’s coffee industry is set for a significant transformation, moving toward global recognition in brand, name, and quality, following a groundbreaking agreement with China Communications Construction Company (CCCC). In a strategic move to elevate Uganda’s coffee on the international stage, three Ugandan companies—Platinum Commodities, Enkumbi Terimba, and New Cafe—each signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Chinese firm at a ceremony held at CCCC’s headquarters in Beijing. This partnership marks a pivotal step in Uganda’s efforts to enhance its coffee exports and solidify its presence in the global market.
The signing ceremony was attended by high-ranking Ugandan officials, including Vice President Maj. (Rtd.) Jessica Alupo, Minister for Foreign Affairs Gen. Jeje Odongo, and Minister for Works and Transport Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, among others. Their presence underscored the importance of this collaboration, which is expected to bring significant benefits to Uganda’s coffee sector.
In her remarks, Vice President Jessica Alupo highlighted Uganda’s rich coffee heritage, noting that the country produces both Arabica and Robusta coffee. She pointed out that while Arabica coffee hails from Ethiopia, Robusta is native to Uganda, giving the country a unique edge in the global coffee industry. Alupo further assured CCCC that Uganda is on track to substantially increase its coffee production, projecting that by 2025, the country will be exporting approximately 20 million bags of coffee annually. This, she emphasized, guarantees a steady supply of high-quality raw materials for the partnership, making Uganda a reliable and strategic coffee supplier.
Alupo also stressed the positive economic impact of the agreement, particularly in terms of job creation. “With the MoU now signed, many of these companies will begin operations, leading to numerous employment opportunities for Ugandans,” she said.
CCCC President Tang Shun, in a speech read by his Vice President Chen Zhong, acknowledged the long-standing friendship between Uganda and China, dating back to the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1962. He emphasized that the cooperation between the two countries has reached its highest level in history, with CCCC playing a key role in Uganda’s infrastructure development. Tang Shun reiterated CCCC’s commitment to implementing the agreements reached by the leaders of both nations and mobilizing more resources under initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
Minister for Foreign Affairs Gen. Jeje Odongo emphasized the strategic importance of strengthening Uganda-China relations to boost exports, particularly coffee, and enhance Uganda’s reputation as a producer of high-quality coffee. Minister for Works and Transport Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala also took the opportunity to request CCCC’s support in developing critical infrastructure to promote tourism in Northern Uganda.
The MoUs were signed by representatives from the respective companies, with Gerald Jjakira signing on behalf of Platinum Commodities, Mwanyi Yerimba for Enkumbi Terimba, and Nkaadu Joseph for New Cafe. Chen Zhong signed on behalf of CCCC.
This partnership is expected to not only enhance the global branding and market reach of Ugandan coffee but also contribute significantly to the country’s economic development through increased exports and job creation.