Uganda is exploring the potential of Excelsa coffee, a little-known coffee species that researchers believe could strengthen climate resilience, protect biodiversity, and expand the countryโs coffee industry beyond Robusta and Arabica.
The National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), through its National Agricultural Research Laboratories at Kawanda, is working with farmers, universities, private companies, and international partners to study and develop the cropโs value chain. Scientists say Excelsa coffee, locally known as โKisansa,โ grows naturally in areas such as Zoka Central Forest Reserve and Semuliki National Park.
Researchers and farmers recently met in Kawanda and Lwengo district to discuss the cropโs future, share farming experiences, and evaluate trial fields. Farmers highlighted both the opportunities and challenges of growing Excelsa, including limited planting materials, market uncertainty, and inconsistent crop varieties.
According to NARO scientists, the main goal is to generate scientific evidence that can support organised production, quality improvement, and market development. The project also aims to identify the best-performing Excelsa varieties for future cultivation and export.
Experts believe that with proper research, conservation, and farmer support, Excelsa coffee could become a valuable addition to Ugandaโs coffee sector while promoting sustainable agriculture and biodiversity protection.
