In a historic moment for the Teso region, Iteso Cultural Development Foundation (ICUDEF) , EESTMAN coffee, Teso’s grown coffee ready for-market with nice flavors and Emorimor Papa Iteso launched a groundbreaking coffee farming initiative, marking the 3rd anniversary of his coronation. The celebration at Bukedea Boma Grounds drew thousands of subjects, dignitaries, and international guests, all eager to witness the birth of a new economic chapter for Teso.
Papa Emorimor was joined by guests including Hon. Skhumbuzo Thokozani Dlamini, the Minister of Tinkhundla Administration and Development from the Kingdom of Eswatini, who represented His Majesty King Mswati III.
The two leaders, together with other visiting kings, (making of Burundi, Samia king symbolically planted coffee seedlings to promote unity, development, and agricultural growth within the Teso region. The initiative is part of theICUDEF Coffee Project, a high-quality coffee brand introduced by ICU Development Foundation (ICUDEF) the development arm of the ICU Kingdom.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), ICUDEF is beginning distributing coffee seedlings to clan leaders across Teso. This effort aims to officially introduce coffee as a cash crop in the region, boosting household incomes and promoting sustainable development through agribusiness. The seven holds planted coffee seedlings signify the 7 major clans in Teso like IKOMOLO, Irarak, Inomun,Ikatakok, Ikarewok among others.
At the heart of the ceremony was the symbolic planting of 7 coffee seedlings, each representing one of Teso’s seven clans. But this wasn’t just about planting trees, it was about planting the seeds for Teso’s future, deeply rooted in economic growth, sustainability, and unity.
Coffee farming may seem like a distant possibility for a region historically known for crops like millet and cassava. But for those in the know, Teso’s land is ideal for coffee cultivation. The region’s highland soils, ample rainfall, and perfect altitudes make it an unexpected but perfect fit for coffee, especially robusta and arabica varieties. While coffee might be a new venture for many here, it’s a cash crop that could lift the region from subsistence farming to the global market.
This isn’t just another agriculture project, it’s a game-changer. For a region that has long been underdeveloped, coffee farming could be the ticket to economic transformation. Coffee is one of the world’s most traded commodities, and Teso’s fertile land is poised to produce some of the finest beans. The world drinks about 2.25 billion cups of coffee daily, and Teso’s farmers could soon be supplying a piece of that global demand. The seeds planted today could yield not only coffee but jobs, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods for countless families across Teso.
Mr. Abdallah Ochoggia, Director of Planning and Strategic Partnerships at ICUDEF (the resource mobilization arm of the Iteso Cultural Union), is among the initiative’s biggest champions. He’s been vocal about the untapped potential of coffee farming in Teso. “This isn’t just a celebration. It’s a breakthrough,” Ochoggia said with conviction. “Teso has the land, the climate, and the vision to take coffee farming global. This is going to change lives, boost families, and turn our farmers into entrepreneurs.”
Ochoggia’s words aren’t just hype, he’s a man who believes in action. As the region’s economic landscape shifts, ICUDEF has been instrumental in securing resources to launch this agricultural revolution. Guests from around the world, including delegates from Eswatini, were present to witness Teso’s big leap into the global coffee trade. They cheered the region on, applauding the initiative and encouraging Teso to continue embracing such innovative partnerships.
The event also saw a strong message of support from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, delivered by Rt. Hon Among Annet Anita, Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda. In his message, President Museveni assured the people of Teso that the government would continue supporting agricultural initiatives in line with the NRM manifesto of “protecting the gains”. Museveni expressed his belief in the power of agriculture to drive national development and transform rural communities.
Rt. Hon Anita didn’t hold back either, rallying the Ateker community across Uganda and neighboring countries to unite and push for regional development. “This is the kind of unity we need. Teso is leading the way. Together, we can eradicate poverty and turn our region into an agricultural powerhouse,” Anita urged.
With Emorimor Papa Iteso at the helm, this initiative is set to bring more than just economic change, it’s about creating an agricultural legacy. Coffee, once seen as an outsider crop in the region, is now at the heart of Teso’s future. The possibilities are limitless, from creating jobs and improving livelihoods to establishing Teso as a recognized player in the global coffee market.
As the seedlings were planted, a palpable sense of hope and optimism filled the air. This isn’t just about growing coffee, it’s about growing an entire community. Teso’s farmers are ready to become more than just producers; they’re on their way to becoming global entrepreneurs.
“We’ve been given the chance to make history,” Emorimor Papa Iteso said, his voice filled with pride. “These seedlings are just the beginning. With unity and hard work, Teso will rise, just like these trees will.”
The event was more than just a celebration, it was a declaration of a new future for Teso. The crowd watched in eager anticipation as the first coffee seedlings took root in the rich soil of Bukedea. In that moment, the promise of a prosperous, united, and sustainable future for Teso became real.
