By Stephen Nuwagira
Robusta coffee has traded at record highs in Ibanda district, with traders and cooperatives quoting a kilogram of the beans (clean) at sh13,000.
This eclipses the previous record price of sh12,800 per kilo, which was first registered in 2022 and then repeated last year and last week.
The current price also shows an increase from sh11,800—over sh1,200 higher than almost a fortnight ago on May 31.
Medard Tukamuhabwa, a model coffee farmer in Ishongororo Town Council, attributes the good prices to quality beans currently on the market.
He advised farmers against stocking coffee, arguing that it could be risky since the harvest season is about to end. Prices usually drop when the coffee harvest season is nearing its end, given the low outturn and poor bean size and quality.
Deogratias Tihwayo of Nyakatookye Coffee Growers Cooperative Society said the dry spell being experienced in the district has boosted coffee quality, attracting buyers and hence pushing up prices.
Meanwhile, Arabica coffee has risen to sh12,500 per kilo in Ibanda town, higher than sh11,800 on May 31.
Coffee growing is one of the enterprises promoted by Ibanda district, with a view of improving and creating sustainable household earnings. Other promoted enterprises include dairy production, piggery, and banana farming.
