(MENAFN) Uganda's coffee shipments surged dramatically in September, posting a 59% year-over-year spike as robust harvests across major cultivation zones propelled export volumes to unprecedented levels, the Ministry of Agriculture disclosed Wednesday.

Government figures show the East African producer shipped 844,949 60-kilogram bags during the month—a massive jump from the 532,212 bags recorded in the corresponding period of 2024, ministry data confirmed. Revenue climbed in tandem, with export receipts hitting $218.6 million, marking a 48% escalation from the $144.7 million generated twelve months earlier.

Performance across bean categories demonstrated exceptional strength. Robusta shipments—the nation's dominant variety—climbed 50%, advancing from 504,576 bags to 771,704 bags. Arabica exports delivered even more explosive growth, more than doubling from 27,636 bags to 73,245 bags—a staggering 166% surge.

Central and eastern production zones drove the expansion, according to official analysis. The ministry's statement indicated that "coffee export volume was higher than the previous year on account of increased coffee production."

Uganda channels most shipments to Italy, Germany, Morocco, Sudan, and Algeria, positioning itself among Africa's leading coffee suppliers. While Robusta cultivation dominates the lowlands, high-altitude regions yield Arabica beans.

Production forecasts signal continued momentum. Media reported earlier this month that Uganda anticipates coffee output will climb an additional 15% in the current crop cycle. Gerald Kyalo, commissioner for the coffee department at the Ministry of Agriculture, projected total production at 9.3 million 60-kilogram bags, versus 8.1 million bags forecast previously.

Expansion of cultivation areas in recent years underpins the optimistic outlook. "Many farmers have planted coffee which we anticipate will come into production this year and will inevitably push up exports as well," Kyalo told media.

Continental production totals approximately 23 million 60-kilogram bags annually, with Ethiopia and Uganda jointly contributing more than half. Ethiopia secured roughly $2.65 billion in coffee export earnings last year, while Uganda generated approximately $1.55 billion from coffee sales in 2024. Tanzania, Cote d'Ivoire, and Kenya represent additional significant producers across the continent.

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