A delegation of young professionals from Switzerland's coffee trading sector is in Uganda from March 14 to 21, 2026, to boost partnerships across the global coffee value chain and gain a deeper understanding of the country's coffee industry.
Organised in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda to the Swiss Confederation and the Swiss Coffee Traders Association (SCTA), the visit reflects growing international interest in Uganda's coffee sector and the country's long-term development strategy.
Uganda, Africa's leading coffee producer, continues to pursue an ambitious vision of expanding production, increasing value addition, and strengthening its position in both specialty and commercial coffee markets.
During the week-long programme, delegates will engage with farmers, processors, exporters and policymakers while touring coffee washing stations in Mt Elgon and Mubuku, as well as plantations across eastern and western Uganda.
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The initiative aims to provide "a comprehensive understanding of the value chain--from cultivation and processing to export and international trading."
A key highlight will be a meeting at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) on March 20, 2026, where the delegation will discuss Uganda's national coffee strategy, sector priorities, sustainability initiatives and the government's long-term vision for expanding coffee production and value addition.
The visit is designed to connect the next generation of coffee traders with Ugandan producers and institutions, aiming "to deepen understanding of the country's coffee value chain, promote sustainable sourcing and responsible trade practices and encourage long-term partnerships between Swiss traders and Ugandan institutions."
The delegation includes professionals from leading companies such as Sucafina SA, Ecom Trading, UCC Europe and Louis Dreyfus Company, representing traders, sustainability specialists, finance professionals and communications experts.
Uganda has emerged as a major force on the international coffee stage, ranking among the world's top coffee exporters and the largest producer in Africa.
The country's coffee--primarily Robusta grown around Lake Victoria and Arabica cultivated in highland regions such as Mt Elgon and the Rwenzori ranges--has gained growing recognition in both commercial and specialty markets.
In recent years, Uganda has expanded its global reach through increased exports, quality improvements and stronger engagement with international buyers and traders.
Government initiatives aimed at boosting production, promoting value addition and encouraging sustainable farming practices are also positioning Uganda to play an even more influential role in the global coffee value chain.