Bayaya Specialty Coffee this week hosted a delegation comprising representatives from the United Kingdom, Ireland and Uganda’s Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) on a familiarisation visit to its coffee farm in Budadiri,Sironko District, and its coffee production facility in Mbale.
The visit forms part of the Uganda–UK and Ireland Coffee Farm Trip, aimed at providing the visiting delegation with first-hand insights into Uganda’s coffee production, processing and value chain.
At the farm, the delegation was received by Bayaya Specialty Coffee Executive Director, Meridah Nandudu, alongside other members of staff.
The team was taken on a guided farm tour, where they explored how Arabica coffee is cultivated and learned about the various agronomic practices employed to promote sustainable coffee production.
These included soil and water conservation measures, tree planting and intercropping with bananas to provide shade for coffee plants, among other practices that support soil health, environmental conservation and improved coffee production.
The delegation also had an opportunity to experience traditional coffee processing techniques by participating in a hands-on demonstration of coffee pulping, gaining practical insights into some of the processes involved in transforming freshly harvested red coffee cherries.
The day’s activities concluded with a coffee cupping session at the home of Bayaya Coffee. The visiting UK and Irish coffee buyers, importers and roasters had an opportunity to taste and assess the quality, aroma, flavour profiles and distinctive characteristics of Uganda’s organic Arabica coffee.
Established in 2018 under the leadership of its Executive Director, Meridah Nandudu,Bayaya Specialty Coffee has grown into an enterprise supporting more than 1,500 people during the coffee season, approximately 65 per cent of whom are young women.
Through its operations, the company provides employment opportunities and contributes to improving livelihoods within the local community.
At the heart of Bayaya’s operations is a commitment to building a mutually beneficial relationship with women and the wider farming community. Through fair trade practices, collaborative partnerships and opportunities for farmers to grow and actively participate in the coffee industry, the company continues to champion inclusive economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.
The visit is part of an eight-day coffee familiarisation programme facilitated by the Uganda High Commission in London, bringing together international coffee buyers and Ugandan coffee producers, processors and exporters.
The initiative seeks to strengthen trade partnerships, promote Uganda’s coffee brands, attract investment and expand access to the UK and Irish markets, while showcasing Uganda’s growing potential in coffee production, processing and value addition.
For Bayaya Specialty Coffee, hosting the delegation provided an opportunity to showcase its work at farm and production levels, demonstrate its commitment to quality and sustainability, and strengthen connections with potential international buyers and partners.
