President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has committed to addressing the pressing concerns of sugarcane farmers and millers following a strategic meeting held at Mayuge State Lodge. The engagement centered on price fluctuations in sugarcane and the broader challenges affecting the sector.
Farmers expressed concerns over unstable prices and appealed for government subsidies to help lower production costs and maximize their profits.
President Museveni acknowledged their grievances and assured them of the Government’s commitment to ensuring they receive fair and sustainable pricing for their produce.
“We will work to ensure that farmers receive fair prices,” President Museveni stated.
A major point of concern raised during the meeting was the delay in establishing the Sugar Council— a body intended to mediate industry issues, regulate practices, and represent stakeholder interests. The President issued a firm directive that the issue be resolved by Monday without fail, signaling urgency in operationalizing the council to stabilize the sugar industry.
“This delay is unnecessary. The Sugar Council must be in place by Monday,” he warned.
In his closing remarks, the President urged farmers to scale up their sugarcane cultivation to ensure profitability, warning that small-scale farming may not yield meaningful returns. Citing examples of successful farmers, he stressed the importance of efficient land use and smart farming practices.
“Growing sugarcane on just 2 acres won’t bring in enough money. Some people earn millions from one well-managed acre. Let us make the right calculations,” the President advised.
The meeting underscored the government’s continued commitment to supporting farmers while also calling for accountability and efficiency within the sector. President Museveni’s directives are expected to catalyze immediate reforms and boost morale among sugarcane growers across the country.
