Raw Beans & Derivatives — Uganda
Our Cocoa
Uganda is one of East Africa's fastest-growing cocoa producers, with cultivation expanding across the western, central, and south-western regions. Carrago Minerals Investment sources cocoa directly from farmer groups and cooperatives in districts including Bundibugyo, Mukono, Masaka, and Hoima.
Ugandan cocoa is known for its naturally fermented, earthy flavour profile with mild acidity — characteristics that are increasingly sought after by craft chocolate makers and premium confectionery producers in Europe, Asia, and North America.
We support farmers with post-harvest guidance on fermentation and drying to ensure consistent quality, and we export under full UCDA certification with phytosanitary documentation for every shipment.
Request a SampleWhere We Source
Cocoa cultivation in Uganda spans several districts, each contributing distinct characteristics to the final bean.
Western Uganda — Primary Source
Uganda's most established cocoa-growing region, situated in the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains. Bundibugyo produces well-fermented beans with a rich, full-bodied flavour profile favoured by European chocolate manufacturers.
Central Uganda
The central region is home to a growing number of smallholder cocoa farmers. Beans from Mukono and Masaka are known for consistent moisture levels and good fermentation, making them reliable for bulk export.
Western Uganda
An emerging cocoa belt in western Uganda, supported by government and NGO extension programmes. Carrago is actively building sourcing relationships in this region to diversify and expand our supply base.
Specifications
| Parameter | Raw Cocoa Beans | Cocoa Butter |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Bundibugyo, Mukono, Masaka — Uganda | Uganda (processed) |
| Variety | Forastero (Amelonado) | Derived from Ugandan beans |
| Fermentation | 5–7 days, box fermented | N/A |
| Moisture Content | ≤ 7.5% | ≤ 0.2% |
| Fat Content | 48–52% | ≥ 99.5% |
| Bean Count | ≤ 100 per 100g | N/A |
| Defects | ≤ 5% mouldy, ≤ 3% slaty | N/A |
| Certification | UCDA certified, Organic on request | RSPO on request |
| Packaging | 62.5kg Jute bags | 25kg cartons / IBC |
| Min. Order | 1 FCL (25 MT) | 1 FCL (20 MT) |
All cocoa exported under Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) and Ministry of Agriculture certification. Phytosanitary certificates and quality inspection reports provided with every shipment.