The forthcoming meeting is expected to put Ssegawa and Dr. Lugero’s competing documents under scrutiny as the Lands Ministry seeks to establish the lawful status of the disputed property and determine what, if any, compensation may be due.
This year’s event is being held under the theme “Empowering the IK Community of Karamoja through Coffee Farming to End Poverty.” The theme reflects the organizers’ broader ambition to use coffee farming as a tool for economic empowerment while drawing attention to communities facing poverty and limited livelihood opportunities.
On March 27, 2024, the first reading was made in parliament with an Act to enact the National Coffee Act 2021. Act 17 of 2021 aims to dissolve the Coffee Development Authority and transfer its functions to the Ministry responsible for agriculture. This change aligns with the government policy on the rationalization of government agencies and public expenditures.
The National Coffee (Amendment) Bill, 2024, will be carried on to the Bills Committee stage for clause-by-clause scrutiny after 159 members voted in its favor against 77 opposing members.