Coffee is a vital crop for Uganda’s economy, contributing 23% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employing nearly one in four Ugandans.
In light of this, the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), under the leadership of Mercy Kainobwisho, the Registrar General, has taken a significant step towards promoting sustainable coffee farming by launching the GREENI Project, which is Uganda’s first Geographical Indication (GI) for Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon Coffee.
This project is to be rolled out by the URSB in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), the French Development Agency (AFD), and the Embassy of France in Uganda.
This project aims to empower Coffee producers with strategies to effectively market and control the Geographical Indication (GI) of the renowned ‘Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon Coffee‘, in a bid to drive sustainable development.
By protecting and promoting this GI, the project will create new economic opportunities for the region’s coffee growers and contribute to the overall development of the area.
Following the launch of the project, URSB teams are conducting field visits to the Kabonero Mountainous Coffee Growers Cooperative and other local farms on a fact-finding mission.
The visits aim at enabling the teams to dive deep into the coffee harvesting and management processes, engaging with farmers to understand their challenges and exploring support mechanisms that can enhance their productivity and livelihoods.
This is because the consistent role of the different players in the coffee value chain is credited for the GI’s success and sustainability, ensuring that the Mountains of the Moon Coffee remains positioned for global competition.
Why Sustainable Coffee Farming Matters
According to officials at URSB, sustainable coffee farming is crucial for Uganda’s coffee sector, as it not only ensures the long-term viability of coffee production but also promotes environmental conservation, social equity, and economic development. The GI status, therefore, certifies the origin, quality, and tradition of Ugandan coffee, making it more competitive in the global market.
Benefits of GI Status
The GI status is expected to have several benefits for Ugandan coffee producers, including:
Increased income
Producers could see a 20-30% income increase through better branding and market access.
Improved market access
The GI status will enhance the traceability, branding, and market access of Ugandan coffee, making it more attractive to international buyers.
Preservation of cultural heritage
The GI status will help preserve Uganda’s cultural heritage and ecosystems, promoting sustainable development and environmental conservation.
Model for Sustainable Development
The GREENI Project is backed by a USD 310,000 investment from France and will run from 2024 to 2027. This initiative creates a replicable model for fairer, more resilient, and competitive value chains, not only in Uganda but also across Africa.
By promoting sustainable coffee farming and Geographical Indications, Uganda’s coffee sector can become a model for sustainable development, benefiting both producers and consumers.
The launch of the GREENI Project marks a significant milestone for Uganda’s coffee sector, promoting sustainable coffee farming and Geographical Indications.
With its potential to increase income, improve market access, and preserve cultural heritage, this initiative is a step in the right direction for Uganda’s coffee industry.
As a model for sustainable development, it can also inspire other countries and industries to adopt similar approaches, promoting a more equitable and sustainable future.