The farmers are seeking increased investment in associations to shield them from unfair deals that threaten both their livelihoods and the quality of Uganda's coffee, a key agricultural export.
Coffee farmers in Bukomansimbi District have called on the government to step in and protect their harvests from the exploitative practices of predatory money lenders.
The farmers are seeking increased investment in associations to shield them from unfair deals that threaten both their livelihoods and the quality of Uganda's coffee, a key agricultural export.
During a coffee workshop held in Bigasa under the Buddu-Rural Coffee Growers Traders and Processors Association, dozens of farmers gathered to voice their concerns.
The event, which also inaugurated new leadership for farmers in the district, highlighted the growing crisis caused by money lenders who are purchasing young coffee harvests at low prices.
The workshop followed a series of awareness concerts across Bukomansimbi, where farmers encouraged one another to embrace sustainable coffee farming practices and build community solidarity around this valuable cash crop.
Many farmers at the workshop shared their struggles, explaining how financial desperation drives them into the hands of money lenders.
These lenders provide short-term loans at high interest rates, forcing farmers to sell their coffee well before it matures and at prices far below market value.
"We are stuck in a cycle of poverty," one farmer lamented. "These money lenders take our coffee even before it is fully ripe. The prices they offer are too low, and by the time we harvest, there's nothing left for our families or to reinvest in our farms."
The financial pressures have led some farmers to desperate measures, with a few turning to superstitions and witchcraft in an effort to protect their livelihoods. This stress has also impacted the quality of coffee, with early harvests reducing the crop's market value.
Farmers are calling for stronger cooperative structures to help them resist the influence of exploitative middlemen and ensure fair trade. "We need stronger farmer associations to protect our harvests and ensure we get fair prices," one farmer said.
Supporting this cause, Hajj Twaha Musoke, chairman of rice farmers in Bukomansimbi, attended the event to express solidarity.
He highlighted the benefits that cooperatives have brought to rice farmers, urging coffee growers to follow a similar path.
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"Cooperatives have saved many rice farmers from these same issues, and they can do the same for coffee growers. We must stand united and refuse to let anyone divide us for personal gain," Musoke said.
Afande Joy Katamba, founder of the Buddu-Rural Coffee Growers Traders and Processors Association, stressed the importance of non-discriminatory cooperation in improving the welfare of coffee farmers.
She noted that cooperatives are key to solving financial issues and ensuring fair prices.
David Kibinge, head of cooperatives in Bukomansimbi, echoed these sentiments, urging farmers to unite and avoid divisions that could weaken their collective bargaining power.
"The future of coffee in Bukomansimbi lies in our ability to work together, form strong cooperatives, and avoid infighting," Kibinge said.
"If we do that, we can achieve great things."
With government support, farmers in Bukomansimbi hope to strengthen their associations and become a leading coffee-producing district, contributing significantly to Uganda's economy while ensuring better livelihoods for local growers.
