UCA Strengthens Market Linkages for Coffee Cooperatives as Turkish Buyer Approves Ugandan Samples

The Uganda Cooperative Alliance (UCA) has intensified efforts to connect coffee cooperatives to international markets following the successful approval of Ugandan coffee samples by ADL Global Group, a Turkish agency that connects buyers to sellers of Coffee. The development marks a major milestone in expanding export opportunities for cooperatives across Uganda’s coffee value chain.

During a high-level follow-up Business-to-Business (B2B) meeting held at the UCA Conference Room on 15 May 2026, representatives from more than 10 coffee cooperatives met with officials from ADL Global Group and government representatives to discuss the next steps toward formal export arrangements. The meeting followed an earlier engagement where cooperatives were introduced to the Turkish market opportunity and asked to submit coffee samples for testing in Turkey.

The participating cooperatives included Banyankole Kweterana Cooperative Union, Bushika ACE, Malongo ACE, Ankole Coffee Cooperative, Kibinge Coffee Cooperative, Kigezi Coffee Growers Union, Buuka Women Multipurpose Cooperative Society and several others from different coffee-growing regions of the country.

Welcoming members to the meeting, UCA officials applauded the cooperatives for successfully meeting the quality requirements of the Turkish market.

“The samples were shipped to Turkey and approved, meaning that we are now ready for business,” UCA leadership noted during the meeting. “This is a strong signal that Ugandan cooperatives can competitively participate in the global coffee trade if we coordinate well on quality, quantity and consistency.”

According to ADL Global Group representative Haki, Turkey’s growing coffee consumption presents a significant opportunity for Ugandan exporters, particularly for Robusta coffee grades 15 and 18, which are increasingly preferred by processors in the region. He explained that while Turkey has traditionally been a tea-drinking nation, demand for coffee is rapidly rising among younger consumers.

ADL indicated plans to initially import three containers of coffee monthly, with the possibility of scaling up to five containers once systems for quality assurance and supply consistency are established. The company also highlighted opportunities for re-exporting Ugandan coffee to neighboring markets including Iraq and Ukraine.

Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Assistant Commissioner Waiswa Mpakibi Robert commended the cooperatives for achieving acceptable sample quality while emphasizing the need to maintain international standards.

“We need to maintain the quality and quantity as we move into business,” he said. “As the Ministry responsible for promoting domestic and international trade, we are committed to ensuring that this engagement succeeds.”

Discussions during the meeting focused on moisture content requirements, pricing, certification standards, logistics, export terms and payment arrangements. Haki stressed the importance of maintaining coffee moisture at 11 percent to meet Turkish customs requirements, noting that moisture levels often rise during shipment.

Cooperatives also raised concerns regarding fair pricing for farmers, maintaining consistent supply volumes, and managing certified versus conventional coffee exports. In response, ADL assured members of flexible engagement arrangements and advance payment mechanisms once agreements are signed.

Importantly, Haki clarified that cooperatives would export directly to Turkish coffee companies, with ADL and UCA serving as facilitators rather than intermediaries.

“The cooperatives will be the direct exporters to Turkey,” Haki explained. “ADL is facilitating the partnership together with UCA to ensure a sustainable and transparent business relationship.”

As part of the agreed way forward, Haki is expected to begin visits to individual cooperatives to assess production capacity, quality management systems and export readiness ahead of final agreements. Banyankole Kweterana Cooperative Union will host the first visit next week, followed by engagements with other cooperatives including Ankole Coffee Cooperative, Malongo ACE and Bushika ACE.

The engagement reflects UCA’s broader commitment to strengthening cooperative enterprises by connecting them to reliable export markets, improving value addition and positioning Ugandan farmers to benefit more competitively from international trade opportunities.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Frederick Gume Ngobi, the State Minister for Cooperatives at MTIC, commended UCA, the cooperatives and ADL Global Group for the successful partnership and progress made towards securing direct international market opportunities for Ugandan coffee cooperatives.

The Minister noted that as the country prepares for a new cabinet, he was in the process of handing over office and was pleased that he would leave office with visible accountability and achievements demonstrated through initiatives such as this partnership. He revealed that he personally played a role in identifying and connecting the Turkish firm to UCA as part of efforts to expand market opportunities for cooperatives.

He expressed satisfaction that the partnership would significantly reduce the role of exploitative middlemen in the coffee trade because cooperatives would now engage directly with buyers through ADL Global Group. He noted that middlemen had for years exploited farmers and cooperatives, reducing their earnings despite the high quality of Ugandan coffee.

The Minister further observed that Uganda’s coffee continues to receive international recognition as one of the best coffees in Africa, noting that the interest shown by the Turkish market was further proof of the country’s strong reputation in coffee production. He emphasized that the proposed export volumes of five containers per month were still small compared to the production capacity of some Ugandan cooperatives, urging members to work together and support one another in mobilizing larger quantities for export.

He welcomed the decision by ADL Global Group to conduct individual visits to the cooperatives, saying that the engagements would strengthen relationships, build trust and help harmonize operational expectations between the buyers and the cooperatives.

Uganda Cooperative Alliance intends to sell its old Vehicles, motor cycles and other assorted office equipment.

     a) The assets will be sold on an “as is, where is” basis

     b) Uganda Cooperative Alliance will have no further liability after the sale.

     c) Payment Terms: All amount to be paid should be deposited on Account number 0341773369 Uganda Cooperative Alliance Ltd,

        ABSA Bank Hannington Road and obtain a Bank deposit slip which will be presented to the accounts.

     d) Viewing of Items is at UCA Head Office Plot 46/47 Nkrumah road.

     e) Interested bidders or applicants should submit their expression of interest to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by email form.

     f) Deadline: 29^th/May/2026

UCA now does put the following notice for the purchase of the following assets below.

Kampala, March 30, 2026. Uganda Cooperative Alliance (UCA) today convened a one-day capacity-building training for coffee value chain cooperatives from the Mid-West, Western, and Central regions of Uganda. Held at the UCA Head Office on Nkruma Road, the session focused on strengthening cooperative performance in production, quality assurance, and market access.

The training covered critical areas including cooperative business modeling, coffee quality control, certification and standardization, and market positioning through digital platforms.

CPA Ivan Asiimwe UCA General Secretary, challenged cooperatives to conduct a thorough assessment of their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

He identified a decline in market share driven by a lack of innovation, poor governance, limited finance, weak customer service, and low member returns. He stressed that cooperatives must professionalize and institutionalize processes to achieve sustainable results, urging participants to diversify their products, strengthen marketing, and adopt modern business practices.

 Mr Abubaker Bakulumpagi Principal Certification Officer a representative from the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) delivered a strong message on consistency, warning that permits would be suspended or withdrawn if standards are not maintained. The session detailed the certification process, emphasizing the need for robust food safety and quality management systems, supported by regular surveillance audits.

 Mr. Ekunyu Richard: a representative from MAAIF said Consistency in quality is non-negotiable for farmers seeking reliable market access and premium prices. As Mr. Ekunyu Richard’s advice makes clear, attention to detail from the moment of harvest through to final storage pays significant dividends. By adopting selective picking, maintaining hygiene during processing, and following proper storage protocols, farmers can protect their hard work and secure better returns for their coffee.

 Dr. Martin Mbonye of Cablinks Establishment Ltd highlighted the immense market potential, noting his company’s current export of 10-20 containers monthly to China, with plans to scale to 50 containers. He pointed to China's annual coffee consumption of 240,000 metric tonnes nearly half of Uganda’s total output as a significant opportunity. To seize this, he stressed the need to boost production both horizontally (expanding land under coffee) and vertically (increasing yields per tree), noting that only 30% of farmers belong to organizations and access to fertilizer remains low at 16%.

Ms. Mary Mwesigwa from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (MTIC) introduced participants to the Uganda Trade Portal, a digital resource offering step-by-step guidance on export-import procedures for first-time traders.

Mr. Mpakiibi, the Assistant Registrar of Cooperatives, encouraged cooperatives to utilize available government financing and to invest in the National Cooperative Bank. He reinforced the call for unity and adherence to quality standards, reminding attendees that both UCA and MTIC offices are open for support.

 Mr. Deogratius Masagazi, Under Secretary at MTIC, served as the chief guest and underscored coffee’s vital role as Uganda is Africa’s second-largest producer. He reiterated that quality is a process, beginning from the garden, and called for clear membership terms within cooperatives to ensure all members can connect to better markets. He concluded by affirming that UCA and MTIC will continue advocating for policies that support value addition, governance, and market expansion.

Key Takeaway

Speakers across the board agreed that while immense demand exists for Ugandan coffee in China, Europe, and Asia, meeting stringent UNBS and MAAIF quality standards is essential. UCA emphasized that the time to act is now, urging cooperatives to innovate, collaborate, and professionalize to capture these global market opportunities.

The cooperative movement in Uganda continues to demonstrate its strength and relevance in transforming communities, a reality that was vividly witnessed in Ibanda Municipality as ISSIA SACCO Limited unveiled its new home on 12th/ March 2026, in a colorful ceremony presided over by the Guest of Honour, Ivan Asiimwe, the General Secretary of the Uganda Cooperative Alliance (UCA).

The event marked a significant milestone for ISSIA SACCO, one of the leading financial cooperatives serving members across Ibanda and the wider western Uganda region. The newly inaugurated building stands as a symbol of growth, resilience, and the collective efforts of members who have continued to save, invest, and believe in the cooperative model as a pathway to economic empowerment.

In his remarks while officiating at the opening, Asiimwe congratulated the leadership, staff, and members of the SACCO for what he described as a remarkable achievement that reflects the strength of cooperation and member ownership. He noted that the construction of the new building was not only an infrastructure milestone but also a demonstration of the confidence members have placed in their institution.

“This new home is more than just a building. It is a symbol of trust, discipline in savings, and the power of collective action among members who believe in improving their livelihoods through cooperation,” Asiimwe said.
He further commended the SACCO’s leadership for steering the institution toward growth and sustainability, emphasizing that strong governance and transparency are key pillars of a successful cooperative.

“As the apex body of cooperatives in Uganda, we at UCA are proud to see institutions like ISSIA SACCO growing steadily. When members remain committed, leaders remain accountable, and staff remain professional, the cooperative movement becomes unstoppable,” Asiimwe added.

He promised more support to the Issia Sacco Ltd in form of training of the Sacco leadership (BOD, Supervisory BOD, vetting committee and management) and also the general membership in different fields e.g resource mobilisation - Shares, savings, membership

Appreciated the president of the republic of Uganda for his support towards the development of the co-op. Movement in Uganda as far as the single regulator issue is concerned, also saccos tax waiver extension and support for the cooperative bank progress

The ceremony attracted members, cooperative leaders, staff, and community stakeholders who gathered to witness the official opening before proceeding to the SACCO’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). The event also provided an opportunity for members to appreciate the continued support and advocacy of the Uganda Cooperative Alliance in strengthening the cooperative movement across the country.

Speaking at the event, the Board Chairperson of ISSIA SACCO described the new building as the result of years of dedication, prudent management, and the unwavering support of members.
“This building represents the journey of our members who have consistently saved and trusted their SACCO. It reflects our commitment to providing better services, strengthening governance, and creating a stronger financial institution for the communities we serve,” he said.

He further emphasized that the SACCO’s leadership remains committed to ensuring that the institution continues to grow while maintaining the cooperative principles of transparency, accountability, and member participation.

ISSIA SACCO Limited is a member-owned financial cooperative based in Ibanda Municipality that has grown into a trusted institution supporting individuals, farmers, and small businesses with accessible savings and credit services. Built on the cooperative principles of member ownership, transparency, and shared prosperity, the SACCO has played a vital role in promoting financial inclusion and improving livelihoods across Ibanda District and the surrounding areas. Over the years, ISSIA SACCO has continued to expand its services and strengthen its impact, empowering members to invest in their businesses, educate their children, and build more resilient communities

Uganda Cooperative Alliance Ltd (UCA), the apex body for all registered cooperative societies in Uganda invites applications from competent firms for prequalification for supply of goods, works and services for Financial years 2026/2027-2027/2028-2028/2029. Interested eligible service providers including the current service providers are invited to apply for pre-qualification indicating the category number and category name of goods, works or services they wish to be considered for as indicated Under LOT NO.1 UCA/PREQ/NCS/06, UCA/PREQ/NCS/08, please indicate the districts of operation.

Uganda Cooperative Alliance (UCA) is actively participating in the ongoing Cooperative Clinic currently taking place in Masaka City, where cooperatives from across the Greater Masaka region have gathered to access a wide range of support services aimed at strengthening the cooperative movement. As the apex body representing cooperatives in Uganda, UCA is playing a key role in providing guidance to cooperatives on governance, cooperative principles, and strengthening member-based organizations, ensuring that cooperative leaders and members attending the clinic receive practical support to improve the management and sustainability of their enterprises.

The Cooperative Clinic, organized by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (MTIC) together with partners and stakeholders in the cooperative sector, started yesterday on 10th March 2026 and will run until 12th March 2026 at the Masaka Liberation Grounds in Masaka City. The initiative forms part of the Ministry’s continued effort to bring services closer to the people and provide cooperatives with direct access to technical support and advisory services that can help them grow and operate more effectively.

Throughout the three-day clinic, cooperatives and SACCOs will access a range of services including general advisory services, on-site cooperative registration support, and training on governance and compliance, among other cooperative-related services. Technical teams from the Ministry, UCA, and other participating stakeholders are available on site to guide cooperatives on issues such as proper registration procedures, compliance with cooperative regulations, and strengthening cooperative management structures.

The clinic is also providing cooperatives and SACCO leaders with opportunities to interact with financial sector partners and learn about tools that can improve financial literacy, strengthen cooperative management systems, and expand access to credit facilities that support cooperative growth.

The ongoing activities will culminate in a stakeholders’ meeting scheduled for Friday, where leaders and stakeholders in the cooperative movement will engage in discussions on issues affecting cooperatives and explore opportunities to further strengthen the sector in the region.

UCA continues to encourage all cooperators in the Greater Masaka region to attend the Cooperative Clinic and benefit from the services being offered. Participation in the clinic is free of charge, and the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to taking services closer to the people, empowering cooperatives, and strengthening the cooperative sector as a key driver of inclusive economic development in Uganda.

6TH MARCH 2026, KAMPALA
The Uganda Cooperative Alliance (UCA) welcomes the recent announcement by the Bank of Uganda extending the deadline for the licensing of large Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) to 30 September 2026, from the earlier deadline of 31 March 2026.
This development marks an important milestone following sustained engagements by the cooperative movement with government and key stakeholders regarding the implementation of licensing requirements for large SACCOs under the Microfinance Deposit-Taking Institutions Act and the Microfinance Deposit-Taking Institutions (Registered Societies) Regulations, 2023.
Over the past months, UCA, together with leaders from the cooperative movement, raised concerns about the regulatory transition affecting large SACCOs. While the sector fully recognizes the importance of financial oversight and regulatory compliance, it was necessary to ensure that the licensing process takes into account the unique nature of cooperatives as member-owned financial institutions that mobilize and lend funds primarily among their members.

In response to these concerns, the cooperative leadership engaged Parliament and subsequently held a high-level meeting with H.E. the President of the Republic of Uganda, who acknowledged the importance of the cooperative model in advancing financial inclusion and grassroots economic development. During these engagements, it was emphasized that the regulatory framework governing SACCOs requires harmonization with existing cooperative laws to avoid duplication of mandates and ensure clarity for the sector.

Following these consultations, the President guided that the matter be carefully reviewed and that adequate time be provided for further stakeholder engagement and policy alignment.

The extension announced by the Bank of Uganda is therefore a welcome outcome of this constructive dialogue.
According to the Bank of Uganda notice, the extension is intended to allow for continued stakeholder engagement, further sensitization on regulatory oversight, and adequate preparation by eligible SACCOs to complete the licensing requirements. During this period, financial service providers have also been advised to continue supporting SACCOs as they prepare for compliance.

For the cooperative movement, this extension provides an important breathing space for SACCOs to better understand the regulatory framework, strengthen their internal systems, and prepare the necessary documentation required for licensing.

The Uganda Cooperative Alliance reiterates that cooperatives are not opposed to regulation. On the contrary, the movement supports regulatory frameworks that enhance transparency, protect members’ savings, and strengthen institutional credibility. However, such frameworks must be implemented in a manner that recognizes the cooperative model and promotes the growth of SACCOs as critical drivers of financial inclusion.
SACCOs continue to play a vital role in Uganda’s economic landscape, providing accessible financial services to millions of Ugandans, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Ensuring that the regulatory environment supports their sustainability and growth remains a priority for the cooperative movement.

UCA therefore commends the Government of Uganda, the Bank of Uganda, Parliament, and all stakeholders who have engaged in constructive dialogue on this matter. We remain committed to working closely with regulators and policymakers to ensure that the final regulatory framework strengthens both financial stability and the cooperative movement.

As the licensing process continues during this extended period, UCA will continue mobilizing and guiding SACCOs across the country to prepare for compliance while also engaging government and all stakeholders to advocate for a harmonized regulatory framework that protects the cooperative identity and promotes inclusive economic development.

Management
Uganda Cooperative Alliance

February 26, 2026 -  Uganda Cooperative Alliance (UCA) officially ushered in its new leadership today, with the newly elected Board of Members taking their oaths of office in a ceremony held at the UCA Board Room.

The event marks a formal transition for the apex body that guides the nation's cooperative movement.
The swearing-in was presided over by Counsel Ferdinand Tumuhaise, Legal Counsel for UCA, who administered the oaths to the incoming leadership, tasking them with upholding the values and constitution of the Alliance as they commence the new team’s tenure.

Following the legal proceedings, the composition of the new Board is as follows:
Chairperson:  Rev. Fr. Safari Emmanuel
Vice Chairperson:  Ms. Emmanuella Oroma
Treasurer: Mr. Wilson Bamwesigye
Board Member: Mr. Wakinya Samuel
Board Member: Hon. Maxwell Akora

The newly instituted leadership takes the helm at a crucial time for the cooperative sector, with a focus on enhancing member services, promoting financial inclusivity, and strengthening the cooperative model across Uganda. UCA extends its congratulations to the new Board and looks forward to a period of collaborative growth and impactful governance.

The Uganda Cooperative Alliance in Partnership with Agriterra and WUR University is implementing

the FORT project across 5 regions of Busoga, Elgon, Lango,Kigezi and Tooro.

This week,UCA has trained 100 farmers and 20 Cooperatives in the FACT methodology.The trained

Farmer organisations will use the skills to amplify their Voices and address key Advocacy issues.