Bobi Wine calls for change in Uganda’s coffee sector

In a recent passionate speech, National Unity Platform President Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, openly criticized President Yoweri Museveni’s management of Uganda’s coffee industry.

Kyagulanyi raised concerns about the sector’s decline, accusing Museveni of contributing to its downfall while simultaneously claiming credit for its revival efforts.

Expressing disbelief in Museveni’s statements about the success of Operation Wealth Creation in rejuvenating the coffee industry, Kyagulanyi boldly stated, “You met a thriving coffee sector and destroyed it,” shedding light on what he perceives as a history of mismanagement within the current administration.

Criticizing neglect of the Uganda coffee development authority

He emphasized the neglect of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) and criticized Museveni for overlooking the agency’s contributions while taking accolades for any positive outcomes in the Sector.

Kyagulanyi did not hold back in detailing how Museveni’s government dismantled crucial support systems like the Coffee Marketing Board and cooperative societies that previously uplifted farmers.

Instead of strengthening these structures, privatization was favored, resulting in the undervaluation of vital assets and leaving farmers to fend for themselves.

Addressing years of neglect

The coffee sector, according to Kyagulanyi, has endured years of neglect, with the UCDA operating on meager funding and relying on a limited export levy for sustenance.

He highlighted delayed investments and corrupt practices that hindered sector growth, lamenting the careless distribution of seedlings that failed to flourish under such conditions.

Questioning the sincerity and timing of Museveni’s recent emphasis on value addition in the coffee industry, Kyagulanyi argued that genuine support in earlier years could have positioned Uganda as a key player in the global coffee market.

He emphasized the missed opportunities resulting from inadequate leadership, stating, “You can’t plant thorns and expect to harvest grapes.”

Amid discussions of potentially merging UCDA with the Ministry of Agriculture, Kyagulanyi cautioned against the move, citing the Ministry’s track record of inefficiency in managing other agricultural products.

Urging government consultation

Kyagulanyi urged the government to engage with stakeholders in the coffee industry before making decisions, emphasizing the importance of inclusive decision-making and valuing diverse perspectives over stifling dissent.

In conclusion, Bobi Wine reiterated the critical role of the UCDA in sustaining Uganda’s coffee sector and warned of potential dire consequences if Museveni continues on the current trajectory.