African coffee exports have plummeted by 24% in the past year, with Uganda and Ethiopia, two of the continent’s largest coffee producers, experiencing significant declines in their shipments. The drop in exports has been attributed to a combination of factors, including poor weather conditions, pests, and diseases that have affected coffee crops. Additionally, global coffee prices have been volatile, making it challenging for African coffee farmers to secure competitive prices for their produce. The decline in coffee exports has had a significant impact on the economies of Uganda and Ethiopia, which rely heavily on coffee as a major source of foreign exchange. The African Coffee Federation has called for urgent action to support coffee farmers and address the challenges facing the industry. This includes investing in irrigation systems, providing training and technical assistance to farmers, and improving market access. The decline in coffee exports is a major concern for African governments, which are working to diversify their economies and reduce their reliance on a few primary commodities.
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