By Sama Marwan,
Uganda has surpassed Ethiopia to become Africa’s leading coffee exporter, marking a significant milestone for the country’s agricultural sector and export-driven economy.
According to the latest export figures for May 2025, Uganda exported 47,607 tons of coffee, exceeding Ethiopia’s 43,481 tons in the same month. These exports equate to 793,445 bags of coffee, representing a 43.6% increase compared to May 2024, according to “All Africa,” a platform specializing in African affairs.
Coffee revenues also hit a record monthly high of $243.9 million, contributing to a total of $2.09 billion generated between June 2024 and May 2025, with 7.43 million bags exported over this twelve-month period.
This historic rise in Uganda’s coffee exports is attributed to strategic government investments through various programs, empowering farmers, improving production methods, and expanding value-added processing.
Despite Uganda’s lead in May, broader data for Ethiopia’s financial year (July 2024 to May 2025) shows that Ethiopia exported 354,302 tons and is still aiming for $2 billion in annual coffee revenues by July 2025. The final comparison remains unsettled until Ethiopia releases its figures for June–July 2025.
Uganda’s performance in May 2025 signifies more than just numerical dominance; it reflects an important shift in regional coffee leadership, driven by well-crafted policies, innovation, and farmer-centered growth.
