Uganda’s Vice President Inaugurates First Single-Origin Coffee Franchise in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – In a significant move to elevate its profile in the global coffee market, Uganda has launched its first single-origin coffee franchise abroad with the inauguration of the Nonda Coffee Shop and Roastery in the heart of Riyadh. The outlet was officially opened by Uganda’s Vice President, Her Excellency Maj. Jessica Alupo, marking a strategic push into the lucrative Middle Eastern market.
The new franchise introduces Uganda’s premium, single-origin coffee directly to a cosmopolitan audience in Saudi Arabia, including residents, business travelers, and the millions of international visitors who pass through the kingdom. This initiative is designed to position Ugandan coffee on the global stage, moving beyond its traditional role as a bean exporter to building a recognizable consumer brand.
The Riyadh location is the first of several planned outlets across the Kingdom, representing a major economic milestone for Uganda. The franchise model is expected to open new markets, create valuable employment opportunities, and incentivize local smallholder farmers to expand into commercial coffee production.
“This is more than just a coffee shop; it is a statement of quality and a new chapter for Ugandan agriculture on the world stage,” a representative from the delegation stated. The venture underscores Uganda’s growing influence in the international coffee industry and its commitment to capturing a greater share of the global value chain, from farm to cup.

