Post by Rubanga cooperative society Ltd

*THE COFFEE BUSINESS FORUM 2025 On the 24th October, we had the great honor of hosting the Inagurual Coffee Business Forum 2025, a gathering that brought together passionate people from across Uganda’s coffee value chain and beyond. As Rubanga Cooperative Society Ltd, this was more than an event — it was a moment to celebrate our journey, share ideas, and strengthen partnerships that are shaping a more sustainable and inclusive coffee sector. This forum created space for honest conversations about how Uganda can strengthen its position in global coffee markets while keeping smallholder farmers at the center. We were privileged to welcome the Rabo Foundation, represented by its Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Supervisory Board. Their presence underscored the foundation’s deep commitment to inclusive financing and the growth of farmer-led organizations. Their message about empowering rural enterprises and building strong cooperative structures resonated strongly with everyone present. We were equally honored to host Robbert Bouw from Bijdendijk, who travelled all the way from the Netherlands to take part in the discussions — a clear reflection of the growing collaboration between Ugandan cooperatives and European partners in advancing sustainable coffee trade. The keynote address by Mr. Moses Nyabila, representing aBi - Agricultural Business Initiative , was both inspiring and insightful. He challenged us to think more boldly about resilience, innovation, and shared prosperity across the coffee value chain. His reflections on financing, sustainability, and youth inclusion set the perfect tone for the day’s exchanges and reinforced the importance of coordinated action to drive real change on the ground. A special word of appreciation goes to our close partners — the International Trade Centre (ITC) and Agriterra — whose long-standing collaboration has been vital to Rubanga’s growth and transformation. Through their technical guidance, institutional strengthening, and capacity-building support, Rubanga has continued to improve governance, enhance sustainability practices, and prepare our members to meet emerging market requirements. Their partnership reminds us that the best progress happens when development and trade actors work hand in hand with farmers to build lasting change. The panel discussions brought together diverse and passionate voices who shared valuable insights on sustainability, cooperative development, and inclusive growth. Listening to these perspectives reminded us that progress in the coffee sector comes from collaboration, not competition. As we mark 40 years of Rubanga Cooperative Society, this forum was a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come — and how much stronger we are when we work together. To all our partners, participants, and supporters — thank you for making the Coffee Business Forum 2025 a success. Together, we’re shaping a better future for Uganda’s coffee. MAAIF Uganda Cafe Africa Uganda