Coffee farmers in Masindi District have expressed frustration over the low prices offered by coffee-buying companies, which they say have left them struggling to meet their financial obligations, including paying school fees for their children.
The farmers, under their umbrella organization, Masindi District Farmers Association, have launched a campaign to demand better prices for their coffee. Led by their chairperson, Kazimbiraine Muhamood, the farmers held a meeting today to discuss their grievances and seek solutions.
Kazimbiraine highlighted the challenges faced by farmers, stating that the low prices offered by companies have made it difficult for them to cover their expenses. He criticized the district leadership for failing to address their concerns and called for government intervention to ensure fair pricing.
Joseph Kasenga, one of the affected farmers, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for immediate action to support coffee growers. The farmers are urging the government to regulate coffee prices and protect them from exploitation by buying companies.
Currently, a kilogram of coffee is being sold at prices ranging between 90,000 and 180,000 shillings, a significant drop from previous years. This has left many farmers in dire financial straits, unable to afford basic necessities such as food and education for their children.
Efforts to reach Francis Mugerwa, the spokesperson for Kinyara Sugar Limited, one of the major coffee buyers in the region, were unsuccessful as he could not be reached for comment.
The farmers’ protest highlights the ongoing challenges faced by smallholder farmers in Uganda, who often struggle to secure fair prices for their produce. As the situation unfolds, the farmers remain hopeful that their voices will be heard and that the government will take steps to address their plight.
