The world of Ugandan coffee feels a little less vibrant today. The passing of Dr. Emmanuel Iyamulemye, the former Managing Director of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), marks the end of an era, leaving a void that will be deeply felt by farmers, exporters, and coffee lovers alike. His death, confirmed on Tuesday morning by Agriculture Minister Frank Tumwebaze, leaves many wondering about the future of the sector he so passionately championed. The minister did not disclose the cause of death or where the 54-year-old passed away. But here’s the thing: Dr. Iyamulemye’s impact extended far beyond just managing an organization; he fundamentally reshaped Uganda’s coffee industry.
Charlotte Kemigyisha, the public relations manager at the Ministry of Agriculture, perfectly captured his influence, describing him as the engine behind Uganda’s increasingly strong recognition in the global coffee market. As she wrote on X, his tenacity in securing Uganda’s coffee an independent voice on the world stage, especially his work advancing the Coffee Roadmap, will be a lasting legacy.
An agricultural scientist by training, Dr. Iyamulemye’s time at the helm of UCDA was nothing short of transformative. Under his leadership, coffee production nearly doubled, and exports experienced significant growth, firmly establishing Uganda as a competitive player in the international coffee market. Think about that: almost double the production! That’s not just incremental improvement; that’s a revolution.
But here’s where it gets controversial… Some might argue that this rapid increase in production came at the expense of quality or sustainable farming practices. What do you think? Did the focus on volume overshadow other important aspects of coffee cultivation?
Dr. Iyamulemye was a strong advocate for value addition, a crucial strategy for ensuring that Ugandan coffee farmers capture a larger share of the profits. He pushed for more roasting and grinding to be done locally, moving beyond simply exporting raw beans. This is incredibly important because raw beans yield far less profit for the farmers than processed coffee. He understood that true economic empowerment comes from controlling more of the supply chain. And this is the part most people miss… Value addition isn’t just about making more money; it’s about creating jobs, building local expertise, and fostering a more resilient economy.
Furthermore, Dr. Iyamulemye spearheaded vital policy reforms, most notably the National Coffee Act 2021. This act strengthened UCDA’s regulatory role and introduced traceability systems, aligning Uganda with international standards and ensuring the quality and origin of Ugandan coffee could be verified. These traceability systems are vital for building trust with consumers and commanding premium prices in the global market.
His dedication extended to improving quality control, on-farm practices, and farmer support systems, leaving an indelible mark on the entire coffee value chain. He wasn’t just sitting in an office; he was actively working to improve the lives of farmers and the quality of their product.
Beyond Uganda’s borders, Dr. Iyamulemye was a passionate advocate for African coffee. He tirelessly pushed for proper recognition in global forums and played a key role in opening new export markets, including China. He understood that African coffee producers needed to work together to gain a stronger voice in the global market.
Minister Tumwebaze described him as “bold, firm, and intelligent,” praising his immense contribution to Uganda’s coffee sector and extending heartfelt condolences on behalf of the government, stakeholders, and the citizens of Uganda.
Dr. Iyamulemye’s career also included impactful work on development programs in Northern Uganda and Karamoja, as well as a significant period at the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). His academic credentials were equally impressive, holding a PhD and a Master’s in Crop Science from Wageningen University in the Netherlands, along with an MBA from Uganda Martyrs University. This blend of academic rigor and practical experience made him a uniquely effective leader.
While the cause of his death has not been disclosed and funeral arrangements are pending, his passing on November 18, 2025, marks the end of a pivotal chapter in Uganda’s coffee history. He leaves behind a legacy of growth, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
As you savor your next cup of Ugandan coffee, remember that the rich aroma carries traces of Dr. Iyamulemye’s vision, persistence, and unwavering dedication. What aspects of his legacy do you find most inspiring? Do you believe his focus on increasing production was the right approach, or should more emphasis have been placed on other factors? Share your thoughts in the comments below.