Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon Coffee Elevates Uganda’s Agricultural Exports

Uganda is launching a transformative initiative to protect and promote its first-ever Geographical Indication (GI), the Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon Coffee.

This strategic move not only sets a new era for Uganda's coffee industry but also significantly enhances the livelihoods of local farmers and bolsters the nation's economy by recognizing its unique and rich coffee heritage.

In a landmark development poised to reshape Uganda’s agricultural export landscape, 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) convened a crucial two-day marketing and control workshop in Kasese.

Held at the Rwenzori International Hotel from May 13 to 15 , the workshop is designed to equip over 11,000 coffee farmers from Kasese, Bundibugyo, Kabarole, Bunyangabo, and Ntoroko with essential tools to manage and market their GI, ensuring traceability, authenticity, and premium value for their high-altitude, 100% Arabica beans.

“This is more than coffee; it’s a cultural and economic identity,” emphasized a stakeholder.

Gilbert Agaba, the Commissioner Intellectual Property who represented the Registrar General added that URSB was keen on ensuring that the GI protection enhanced the competitiveness of Uganda’s unique coffee.

“The GI framework will protect our producers from unfair competition and elevate Uganda’s reputation as a source of premium agricultural products.”

The GI designation, officially registered in 2023 with support from CIRAD and the French Government guarantees that Rwenzori coffee meets strict quality criteria and originates solely from this unique territory. Renowned for its sweet, fruity aroma and rich chocolate undertones, Rwenzori coffee scores above 80 percent in global cupping standards and is cultivated organically at altitudes exceeding 1,200 meters.

“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,” added Xavier Sticker, the Ambassador of France to Uganda

The USD 310,000 GI Support Fund grant backing the initiative is anticipated to increase farmers’ incomes by 20 to 30 percent, while promoting environmentally friendly farming practices, gender equity, and youth employment.

“This GI is a beacon of hope and a model for replication across Uganda,” remarked a local advocate. “It proves that intellectual property can transform lives.”

Recently, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Norbert Mao emphasized the transformative potential of Geographical Indications (GIs) for Africa at the WIPO Global Symposium on Geographical Indications held at Elephant Hills Resort in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, on May 1, 2025.

He noted that effective GI protection can significantly enhance farmer incomes and boost rural development across the continent.

As Uganda positions itself as a leader in fair trade and local empowerment, Rwenzori’s coffee is not just steeping, it is blazing a trail for sustainable growth and international recognition.