Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) have declared their collective intent to oppose the National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024, during the forthcoming plenary session. The bill proposes dissolving the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) and transferring its functions to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, as part of the government’s Rationalization of Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX) policy.
The opposition contends that dissolving the UCDA could undermine the coffee sector, which is vital to Uganda’s economy. They argue that the UCDA has been instrumental in regulating and promoting coffee production, ensuring quality standards, and supporting farmers. Concerns have been raised about the potential negative impact on coffee farmers and the overall industry if the bill is enacted.
In a recent plenary session, Speaker Anita Among subjected the bill to a headcount vote after opposition MPs stood in disapproval of the outcome of the voice voting. The results showed 159 MPs in favor and 77 against proceeding with the second reading of the bill.
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The opposition’s unified stance reflects the significant debate surrounding the proposed amendments. As the plenary session approaches, all eyes are on Parliament to see how this critical issue will unfold, with potential implications for Uganda’s coffee industry and the livelihoods of millions of farmers.