KCSON Sensitizes Coffee Farmers on EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) in Kyenjojo District

KCSON conducted a sensitization meeting earlier this week in Kitega Subcounty, Kyenjojo District, bringing together coffee farmers under the FRECAR Project from Kitega and Kanyegaramire subcounties. The discussion focused on the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and its implications for coffee production, trade, and environmental sustainability.

The recently introduced European Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 concerning deforestation-free products (EUDR) aims to ensure that commodities entering the EU market are free from deforestation. It seeks to reduce the EU’s contribution to global deforestation and forest degradation while promoting sustainable sourcing. The regulation is expected to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss by banning imports of coffee that cannot be proven to be deforestation-free and requiring comprehensive documentation of due diligence practices.

During the meeting, the District Production Officer (DPO) of Kyenjojo District commended KCSON and WWF Uganda for supporting local farmers through initiatives such as coffee, cocoa, tree planting, bananas, beekeeping, and livestock rearing. He emphasized that these enterprises not only improve livelihoods but also enhance carbon absorption and environmental resilience.

He urged farmers to manage their enterprises responsibly and plan effectively for sustainability. The DPO also noted that bee farming contributes to pollination, thereby improving crop yields, and encouraged farmers to continue embracing diversified enterprises such as coffee, which remains highly demanded in the market.

The meeting provided an opportunity for farmers to understand the importance of aligning their agricultural practices with global sustainability standards, ensuring that their products can access international markets while conserving local ecosystems.

KCSON remains committed to empowering rural communities through climate-smart livelihoods and promoting compliance with international environmental and trade standards.