The Parliamentary STI Committee has praised the progress being made on the construction of the Inspire Africa Coffee Factory in Rwashamire, located within the Ntungamo District.

The facility, designed to boost coffee value addition and improve exports, has been commended for its substantial impact on the coffee sector.

On Friday, the committee toured the Inspire Africa coffee park to evaluate the advancement of the initiative, underscoring the significance of raising awareness among the populace regarding how this venture affects coffee growers.

The visit entailed a comprehensive tour of the premises, which was succeeded by a presentation delivered by Nelson Tugume, who is the principal investor and advocate for the Inspire Africa Coffee Group.

Tugume highlighted the importance of disseminating precise information to the public, encouraging the committee to serve as ambassadors in explaining how the facility will benefit the coffee sector.

“There is a lot of misinformation among the people. You, as committee members, have been recruited to share the truth with the public,” Tugume said.

Throughout the tour, Members of Parliament showed their approval regarding the advancements achieved; however, they also voiced worries over the transparency of public finances and the effectiveness of quality control mechanisms.

Andrew Ojok Oulanyah, who represents Omoro County as an MP, requested further details about the project’s business strategy and the extent of governmental participation, specifically concerning the $30 million funding.

Oulanyah emphasized the importance of comprehending the quality assurance plan, the role of cooperatives in enhancing value, and the collaboration between the government and the initiative.

Dr. Asiimwe Florence, who serves as the Vice Chairperson of the committee and represents Masindi as a woman member of parliament, assured the public that Parliament will back the initiative.

She stressed the need to clear up any uncertainties around the initiative.

“As far as we can tell, the government stands to gain significantly from this investment. However, there is considerable doubt among the public regarding the funding. We need to make an effort to educate people on how the project will advantage farmers,” Dr. Asiimwe stated.

Tugume also tackled misunderstandings regarding the project’s financing, particularly assertions that he had been paid by President Museveni.

He firmly denied these rumors, asserting, “The government is not the primary financier of this initiative. It’s entirely untrue that I accepted funds from President Museveni to instruct individuals on drinking coffee.”

The Inspire Africa Coffee Factory, situated within the Africa Coffee Park in Rwashamire, is scheduled to open formally on May 21, 2025. This event will see President Museveni visit for his third time since the project began.

This represents a major landmark for the initiative, which seeks to transform Uganda’s coffee sector by enhancing the value of coffee production and increasing export volumes.

The support from Parliament and ongoing development efforts signal a promising future for the project, which is expected to benefit farmers and the broader Ugandan economy.

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