A More Climate-Resistant Coffee Rises in Africa
In the lowlands of Uganda, a new variety of coffee is being cultivated in an effort to find a more climate-resistant crop. This variety, known as Excelsa, is native to tropical Central Africa and was once widely grown in the region. However, it fell out of favor in the late 19th century due to its susceptibility to pests and diseases.
In recent years, Excelsa has made a comeback as a potential solution to the challenges posed by climate change. The plant is more tolerant of drought and heat than other coffee varieties, making it a good option for farmers in areas that are becoming increasingly vulnerable to these conditions.
Catherine Kiwuka, a coffee specialist at the National Agricultural Research Organization in Uganda, is part of an experiment to introduce Excelsa to the world. She believes that the plant has the potential to help smallholder coffee farmers adapt to climate change and improve their livelihoods.
“Excelsa is a neglected coffee species,” Kiwuka said. “But it has a lot of potential. It is more resistant to pests and diseases, and it can grow in areas where other coffee varieties cannot.”
Kiwuka and her team are working to develop new varieties of Excelsa that are even more climate-resistant and have a better flavor. They are also working to educate farmers about the benefits of growing this variety.
If successful, the project could help to ensure the future of coffee production in Uganda and other parts of Africa. It could also provide a model for other countries that are struggling to adapt to climate change.
The Future of Coffee
Climate change is a major threat to coffee production around the world. Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall are making it difficult for farmers to grow coffee in traditional areas. This is leading to a decline in coffee production and a rise in coffee prices.
Excelsa is one of a number of coffee varieties that are being investigated as a potential solution to the challenges posed by climate change. The plant is more tolerant of drought and heat than other coffee varieties, making it a good option for farmers in areas that are becoming increasingly vulnerable to these conditions.
If successful, the project to introduce Excelsa to the world could help to ensure the future of coffee production in Uganda and other parts of Africa. It could also provide a model for other countries that are struggling to adapt to climate change.