Sugarcane farmers under their umbrella of Greater Mukono sugarcane out growers cooperative are demanding that the government introduce a law restricting sugar mills from growing sugar cane to enable them to get a better market for their sugarcane.
Locals in the districts of Kayunga, Mukono, Buikwe and Buvuma are dependent on cane cultivation as it is evident that most of the land is covered with sugarcane estates, but this has left many farmers in abject poverty due to unfair contracts with the investors
Farmers say it is time for the government to come out with low interest loans through their cooperatives because banks have seized their property and many farmers have quit the business.
Julius Katerevu, the Chairman greater Mukono sugarcane out grower’s cooperative said that it is the time for the government to enact a law restricting Indian investors from growing sugarcane and leave the work to the local out growers so that they could sell their sugar cane at a reasonable price.
Buikwe District Chairman Jimmy Kanaabi said farmers face significant challenges in sugarcane cultivation, especially when it comes to issuing farming permits. However the district is working around the clock to harmonize the challenges faced by farmers
The members also elected a new executive to run the umbrella and also lobby as well solving challenges in the sector.