Kalangala Residents Embrace Coffee Farming Amidst Rising Prices and Support

The island district of Kalangala is witnessing a growing number of residents, including youth, turning to coffee cultivation. This resurgence is largely attributed to the attractive global coffee prices, which have surpassed earnings from fishing, a traditional mainstay for many islanders.

Historically, coffee was a significant cash crop in Kalangala, but many farmers shifted to fishing when coffee prices declined. However, the launch of initiatives like Buganda Kingdom’s ‘Emmwanyi Terimba’ campaign in 2022 has revitalized interest in the crop, particularly among the youth. This campaign, coupled with a surge in coffee prices to as high as Shs14,000 per kilogram, has made coffee farming a more appealing economic venture.

Limited land availability on the islands also favors coffee, which can be grown profitably on smaller plots compared to oil palm cultivation. This situation has spurred investment in local coffee processing, with the establishment of milling facilities and numerous local nurseries ensuring easier access to seedlings.

Organizations like Ssese CBS PEWOSA are actively involved in distributing seedlings, bridging the gap for farmers who previously faced long distances to access planting materials. Furthermore, agricultural extension services and government programs offering free seedlings and fertilizers have encouraged wider adoption, especially among young farmers.

The formation of cooperatives, such as the Ssese Coffee Farmers Cooperative Society, aims to enhance collective marketing and farmer-owned processing, further strengthening the sector. With continued support and favorable market prices, coffee is poised to become a leading income-generating enterprise for Kalangala once again.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)