Uganda showcases coffee excellence at San Diego Expo

_________________

Uganda has once again taken its place on the global coffee stage, delivering a bold and compelling showcase at the just-concluded World of Coffee Expo San Diego 2026 in the United States.

The prestigious event that ran on April 10-12, organised by the Specialty Coffee Association, brought together coffee producers, exporters, roasters, baristas, and enthusiasts from across the world, offering Uganda a strategic platform to highlight the uniqueness and diversity of its coffee.

As one of Africa’s leading coffee producers, Uganda’s participation was both timely and significant. The country is the largest exporter of coffee on the continent and ranks among the top global producers, thanks largely to its renowned Robusta coffee and increasingly celebrated Arabica coffee.

One of the attendees smelling the aroma of Ugandan coffee during the San Diego Expo. (Courtesy)

Racheal Ayebale, one of the participants from the agriculture ministry, said Uganda presented a rich narrative of origin, quality, and sustainability — one that resonated strongly with global buyers and coffee connoisseurs.

The Ugandan delegation, led by agriculture ministry officials and the Embassy of Uganda in Washington DC, featured a cross-section of industry players, including exporters, processors, and cupping experts.

"Their presence was marked by an engaging exhibition booth that drew significant traffic, courtesy of the unique aroma from the quality coffee on offer as well as strategic and vibrant branding," said Ayebale.

Visitors to the Uganda booth were reportedly treated to expertly brewed cups showcasing the country’s diverse flavour profiles; from the bold, chocolatey and full-bodied notes of Ugandan Robusta to the bright acidity and fruity undertones of high altitude Arabicas grown on the slopes of Mount Elgon, plus the Rwenzori Mountains and Kigezi highlands.

Coffee Expo in San Diego USA. (Courtesy)

"Live brewing sessions and cupping experiences allowed attendees to fully appreciate Uganda’s distinct coffee characteristics," Kenneth Barigye, one of Uganda's major exporters, said.

According to Barigye, beyond showcasing coffee, Uganda used the platform to tell a broader story; one of transformation, resilience, and opportunity.

Gordon Katwirenabo, the assistant commissioner for quality assurance, noted that with over 1.7 million households dependent on coffee farming, the sector remains a critical pillar of the country’s economy.

"Government-led initiatives aimed at increasing production, enhancing quality, and promoting value addition were highlighted as part of Uganda’s journey towards becoming a top global coffee brand," he said.

He added that the San Diego expo provided an invaluable opportunity for business networking and market expansion. 

"Discussions centred around supply consistency, traceability, organic certification, and the growing demand for sustainably sourced coffee; all areas where Uganda is already making notable progress."

It was also noted that exhibitors, who were close to 700, shared insights on environmentally friendly farming practices, agroforestry, and initiatives aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change on coffee production.

"These efforts align with global trends, where consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental and social impact of their coffee choices," said Kwiteranaho.

The expo also served as a platform to position Uganda not just as a source of green beans but as a country with a compelling coffee culture and tourism potential. Delegates promoted coffee tourism experiences, inviting global audiences to explore Uganda’s coffee-growing regions, interact with farmers, and experience the journey from bean to cup firsthand.

As the curtains fell on the World of Coffee Expo San Diego 2026, Uganda’s participation was widely regarded as a success.

The country left a strong impression on the global coffee community, reaffirming its status as a key player in the industry and a rising force in specialty coffee.

Looking ahead, several stakeholders are optimistic that the exposure gained will translate into increased demand, better prices for farmers and greater investment across the value chain.