In a groundbreaking move for Uganda’s coffee industry, the country has officially launched efforts to promote and protect its first-ever Geographical Indication (GI): Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon Coffee.
The initiative is expected to not only enhance the quality and market value of Ugandan coffee but also improve livelihoods, support sustainable farming, and elevate Uganda’s status as a premium agricultural exporter.
This landmark development was marked by a two-day Marketing and Control Workshop held from May 13–15, 2025, at the Rwenzori International Hotel in Kasese.
Organized by the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), and the French Development Agency (AFD), the workshop trained more than 11,000 coffee farmers from Kasese, Bundibugyo, Kabarole, Bunyangabo, and Ntoroko districts.
The training focused on managing the GI label, ensuring product traceability, and accessing premium markets.
“This is more than coffee; it’s a cultural and economic identity,” emphasized a stakeholder during the workshop. The GI designation guarantees that Rwenzori coffee—renowned for its fruity aroma and chocolate undertones—is grown organically at altitudes over 1,200 meters and scores above 80 percent on international cupping standards.
Gilbert Agaba, Commissioner for Intellectual Property at URSB, stated that the GI framework will protect local producers from unfair competition and increase the global competitiveness of Uganda’s unique coffee.
“The GI protection ensures authenticity and premium branding, positioning Uganda as a source of high-quality agricultural products,” he said.
Backed by a USD 310,000 GI Support Fund from CIRAD and the French Government, the project is expected to boost farmer incomes by 20 to 30 percent while also advancing gender equity, youth employment, and environmentally friendly practices.
French Ambassador to Uganda H.E. Xavier Sticker lauded the initiative, saying, “The world is moving toward ethical sourcing and traceability. This project ensures Ugandan farmers directly benefit from the global demand for high-quality, sustainable products.”
Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Hon. Norbert Mao, speaking earlier this month at the WIPO Global Symposium on Geographical Indications in Zimbabwe, reinforced the importance of GIs in driving rural development across Africa. “Effective GI protection can significantly enhance farmer incomes,” he said.
As Uganda blazes a trail in sustainable agriculture and fair trade, the Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon Coffee stands as a powerful example of how intellectual property can transform lives and build a stronger, globally competitive agricultural sector.
