Uganda Coffee Shines at World of Coffee Dubai as Global Demand Grows

Uganda registered a strong presence at the World of Coffee Dubai Exhibition, held from 18–20 January, as the event recorded significant growth in attendance — rising from about 3,000 to over 6,000 visitors. The increase reflects growing global interest in coffee and stronger participation from African producers, with Uganda standing out.

The exhibition was attended by H.E. Aisa Ismail, Uganda’s Ambassador, alongside officials from the Ugandan Embassy, signaling firm institutional backing for the country’s coffee industry. Uganda’s participation reaffirmed its readiness to deepen global coffee partnerships, particularly in specialty and value-added segments.

Uganda showcased a wide range of coffees — from specialty and single-origin beans to fermented and experimental coffees — highlighting the country’s rich coffee heritage and improving quality standards. Several global buyers and roasters expressed strong interest, with BALAMBULI KWIGATE Coffee attracting attention for its outstanding promotion and unique profile.

“Uganda coffee is no longer just about volume; it is increasingly about quality, traceability, and unique taste,” one international roaster noted during the exhibition.

A Rising Coffee Trend in Uganda

In recent years, Uganda’s coffee sector has seen a noticeable shift. Farmers, exporters, and cooperatives are investing more in specialty coffee, better post-harvest handling, fermentation techniques, and branding. This transition is helping Ugandan coffee compete in premium markets rather than only bulk export channels.

“Events like World of Coffee Dubai show that the world is ready for premium Ugandan coffee,” an industry representative said. “What we are seeing now is the reward of improved farming practices and storytelling around origin.”

What This Means for Uganda

Uganda’s strong showing in Dubai points to new market opportunities, especially in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. Increased visibility can translate into better prices for farmers, stronger export contracts, and more investment in local processing.

As global consumers increasingly seek ethically sourced, high-quality coffee, Uganda’s growing focus on specialty and fermented coffees positions the country well for the future.

“Uganda is steadily moving from being known as a coffee producer to being recognized as a coffee brand,” a trade official observed.

With rising global demand and continued institutional support, Uganda’s coffee industry appears poised for sustained growth on the international stage.