KAMPALA, Dec. 17 (Xinhua) — Uganda’s Vanilla exports have grown by 78% in the past four years, the country’s agriculture ministry announced Tuesday.
Fred Bwino Kyakulaga, the state minister for agriculture, told media more Ugandan farmers had embraced vanilla growing since 2019.
“Uganda’s Vanilla industry has improved over time, considering the period between 2019 and 2023. Our export volumes grew to 266.7 tonnes in 2023, marking a growth rate of 78%,” Kyakulaga said.
The minister said earnings stand at 20.66 million US dollars in 2023.
“The quality of Uganda’s Vanilla is outstanding, achieving a vanillin content above 2% on average increasing its competitive advantage,” the minister said.
Uganda mostly exports its vanilla to Canada, Germany, France and the United States.
According to the minister, the vanilla industry still faces challenges such as premature harvests, theft, undercover processing, illicit trade and poor management at early stages of growth.
“As we continue to navigate the complex landscape of international trade, I urge our esteemed farmers to remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring the quality and safety of our beans,” he said.
According to FAOSTAT (2022), the total global production of vanilla is 6,843 tonnes, with Madagascar dominating the market at (78%), followed by Uganda (9%), Papua New Guinea (7%), Indonesia (3%), Mexico (2%), and India (1%).
“Uganda’s vanilla contribution ranges from 150 to 300 metric tons accounting for 5% to 15% of global supply, presenting significant opportunities for market expansion.”
The minister declared Dec.27-March 27 as harvest Season B for Vanilla in Uganda.
Statistics indicate that 38 districts are engaged in growing vanilla across the country. These include: Mbale, Kayunga, Mukono, Buikwe, Jinja, Kamuli, Iganga, Luuka, Mayuge, Namayingo, Sironko, Wakiso, Bukomansimbi, Kalungu, Masaka, Kyotela, Mpigi, Mubende, Luweero, Mityana, Kiboga, Kibale, Kagadi, Hoima, Kabarole, kasese, kyenjojo, Bundibugyo, Ntoroko, Bunyangabu, Ibanda, Mbarara, Sheema, Bushenyi,and Rubirizi.
However, more districts are coming on board with great potential to flourish in the sector, these include Kamwenge, Kitagwenda, Kazo, Bushenyi and Rukungiri, according to government data.
