Uganda’s coffee industry has once again demonstrated its growing influence on the international stage after taking centre stage at a high-profile cupping event in Bamberg, Germany. The showcase, organized at the Bamberg Tourism Centre, brought together international roasters, specialty buyers, and coffee enthusiasts eager to experience the unique profiles of Uganda’s Arabica and Robusta beans.
The event was jointly organized by the Uganda Embassy in Berlin and Nakasongola-based little farms, a coffee farming and exporting company. It provided a platform for Ugandan producers to engage with European markets, highlighting both the country’s quality and commitment to sustainability in coffee production.
Speaking on behalf of Ambassador Stephen Mubiru, Jessica Namuddu, Head of Tourism at the embassy, emphasized the cultural and economic importance of coffee to Uganda. “Coffee is more than an export; it is a lifeline for our farmers, a symbol of our heritage, and a vehicle for building global partnerships,” she said, underscoring Uganda’s drive to expand its presence in the specialty coffee arena.
The tasting sessions featured curated presentations by renowned roasters including Daniel Gerlach of Seven Hills Coffee Roasters, Patrick Baer of Wicked’N’Mellow Specialty Coffee Kaffeerösterei Bamberg, and Alexander Gäcklein of M.A.G Roasters. Their evaluations highlighted Uganda’s ability to produce beans with bold, distinctive flavor notes that cater to a wide spectrum of international tastes. Guests were further treated to a latte art display by Gerlach, a three-time German National Latte Art Champion, which added a creative flair to the showcase.
Littlefarms founder, Tom Kalyesubula, praised the event as a vital opportunity to link Ugandan farmers to premium buyers abroad. He showcased a variety of coffee profiles that reflected Uganda’s diverse terroir, from robust naturally processed beans to delicate high-altitude Arabicas.
Officials from Bamberg’s Department of World Heritage, Culture and Tourism commended Uganda’s participation, noting the event’s success in merging trade, culture, and tourism.
The Bamberg cupping event is part of a wider strategy by Uganda to enhance its global coffee footprint, promote sustainable practices, and secure better markets for smallholder farmers. With global demand for specialty coffee rising, Uganda’s visibility at such high-level forums is expected to open new pathways for investment, trade, and international recognition.
