Hon. Nandala Mafabi : Address UCDA Weaknesses, Don't Dismantle

Описание: #AfricaSpeak #UgandaCoffee #parliamentofuganda #RobertKabushenga.

Bugisu is a major coffee supplier globally, with agents like Meru Coffee camping in Mbale to buy and process our coffee.

We are certifying our organic farmers, a costly exercise at about 1 million UGX per farmer.

The current NRM government policies hinder economic progress, keeping people in poverty to maintain control.

Persistent questions remain about the government’s motives regarding the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA). I’m prepared to meet anyone, including President Museveni, to address these issues.

UCDA is a financially self-sustaining entity that also supports the treasury. Rather than dismantle it, we should address its weaknesses to make it even stronger. Coffee is the most traded commodity after oil.

The late Wapakhabulo was instrumental in marketing our coffee; UCDA has thrived under similar dedicated support but cannot flourish within the Ministry of Agriculture, which lacks the necessary focus.

I defended UCDA in committee by likening it to the Law Society, which plays a vital regulatory role. As a certified accountant, I see our contribution as unchallenged.

I’ve heard Pastor Serwanda was intimidated for discussing coffee issues. why should this happen?

The government’s mishandling of cooperatives was detrimental, killing many of them. True cooperatives should grow from the grassroots. In Bugisu, our first cooperative stores were established in Bumasifa. An individual cannot represent a cooperative; BCU, for example, has 299 member societies.

In 2020, when I intended to leave BCU, people protested, demanding a clear succession plan before I could go.

Some dishonest leaders exist, but we have removed ineffective lower leaders.

Confidence and integrity are key to supporting farmers. BCU also has one of the most successful SACCOs, which ensures farmers have access to funds at any time.

Socially, we support community projects, building churches and mosques, and sponsor around 400 students annually at universities. We don’t give cash; we remit funds directly to universities and display the beneficiaries publicly.

We provide seedlings through youth and women’s groups organized under BCU.

It’s essential to meet the President about coffee. All stakeholders should discuss the coffee sector directly with him; he may not have the full picture.