Sebei

Sebei is a region in eastern Uganda, situated along the northern slopes of Mount Elgon and encompassing districts such as Kapchorwa, Kween, and Bukwo. The area is part of Uganda’s highland Arabica coffee belt, characterized by elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,400 meters above sea level, volcanic and fertile soils, and a cool, humid tropical climate. Annual rainfall ranges from 1,200 to 2,000 mm, often distributed in a bimodal pattern, creating ideal conditions for Arabica coffee cultivation and contributing to beans with complex flavors, bright acidity, and aromatic profiles.

Coffee farming in Sebei is primarily smallholder-based, with plots generally less than two hectares. Farmers practice mixed cropping, intercropping coffee with bananas, beans, maize, and other food crops, which provides both food security and income diversification. Many coffee trees are grown under shade, either from banana canopies or indigenous trees, which helps regulate soil moisture, reduces heat stress, and contributes to sustainable agroforestry practices. Farmers combine traditional cultivation methods with modern agronomic practices, such as improved seedlings, mulching, pruning, and pest management, promoted by cooperatives and government extension programs.

The harvest season in Sebei typically occurs from October to February, following the main rainy season. Coffee cherries are hand-picked selectively, ensuring that only ripe cherries are harvested. Processing is predominantly done using the washed (wet) method, where cherries are pulped, fermented, washed, and sun-dried on raised beds. This method produces high-quality Arabica beans with bright acidity, floral and fruity notes, and medium body.

Challenges affecting coffee production in Sebei include steep and rugged terrain, soil erosion, pests and diseases (notably coffee berry disease and leaf rust), climate variability, and fluctuating coffee prices. Despite these constraints, coffee remains a vital cash crop and source of livelihood for smallholder farmers, contributing significantly to Uganda’s Arabica coffee exports. Sebei coffee is particularly valued in specialty markets for its distinctive flavor, high cup quality, and consistent quality, making the region an important contributor to Uganda’s reputation as a producer of premium Arabica coffee.