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Coffee prices in Ibanda district have risen due to increased demand and improved quality, with Arabica reaching up to sh14,000 per kilogram. Farmers are encouraged to maintain proper harvest practices, while co-operative leaders call for government support and better market access.

The prices of coffee in Ibanda district have risen month-on-month, driven by increased demand and improved quality, according to coffee dealers and farmers.

Currently, Arabica coffee is priced at up to sh14,000 per kilogram, up from sh13,000 in early November. However, in Kashangura, Kagongo Division within Ibanda Municipality, Arabica coffee is being sold at sh13,500 per kilogram, compared to sh12,000 to sh12,500 during the same period. Robusta coffee prices have also increased, now trading at sh13,700 per kilogram, up from sh12,000.

On December 3, 2024, Mr. Deogratias Tihwayo, a representative of the Nyakatookye Coffee Growers Co-operative Society, attributed the price increase to heightened interest from bulk buyers in Kampala.

“The coffee beans currently on the market exhibit good outturn, which attracts buyers,” he said. However, he noted that supply remains relatively low.

The harvest season for Arabica coffee has largely concluded, while that of Robusta coffee commenced over a month ago and is expected to end by January 2025.

Mr. Januario Turyamureeba, Chairperson of the Kashangura Coffee Co-operative Society in Kagongo Division, anticipates that the price of Robusta coffee could reach sh15,000 per kilogram by the end of December. He urged farmers to harvest only ripe cherries and ensure proper post-harvest handling, including drying the coffee to achieve the recommended 13% moisture content.

Additionally, Mr. Turyamureeba encouraged farmers to market their coffee through organized groups to secure better returns.

Farmers Appeal to the Government

In a related development, Mr. Turyamureeba has called on the Government to provide agricultural loans to rural farmers to help them enhance their coffee plantations.

“The Government should also continue seeking better markets for coffee to ensure farmers benefit substantially from their efforts and investments,” he said.

Coffee cultivation is one of the major economic activities promoted in Ibanda district, alongside dairy farming, banana growing, and piggery. While Robusta coffee is widely grown in the district, Arabica coffee is cultivated in the highland areas such as Rukiri and Kicuzi.