Jinja, Uganda: Sugarcane outgrowers in Busoga Sub-region have applauded President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for creating a National Sugar Council to regulate sugarcane prices, saying the long-awaited reform finally gives farmers a fair and transparent system after years of miller-controlled pricing.
The farmers, led by David Christopher Mombwe, Chairperson of the Busoga Sugarcane Out Growers, delivered their appreciation to Hajj Faruk Kirunda, the Presidential Assistant–Press and Mobilisation and Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, during a meeting at Kakira High School in Kakira Town Council.
Mombwe said President Museveni’s assent to the Sugarcane (Amendment) Act on May 30, 2025, marked a turning point for the sector.
“This is the only sector that has lacked regulation. We thank President Museveni for signing the Sugarcane Bill into law. We are proud that sugarcane prices will now be determined by the Sugar Council, and not millers,” Mombwe said.
He explained that the National Sugar Council comprises four outgrowers, three millers, and three permanent secretaries representing the government, creating balanced representation and eliminating unilateral pricing by millers.
However, Mombwe raised concerns about insecurity along routes used by sugarcane growers, saying some farmers have been attacked and robbed while returning home after withdrawing money from banks.
Responding to the growers’ concerns, Hajj Faruk Kirunda said he will request President Museveni to meet sugarcane farmers directly to address the challenges affecting the sector. “We must investigate these issues thoroughly and find permanent solutions. The Council was formed to identify and resolve growers’ concerns,” he said.
Kirunda condemned the repeated robberies targeting cane farmers and pledged to work with security agencies to track down the gangs behind the attacks. He assured growers that the government is committed to securing their welfare and earnings.
He also urged the farmers to continue supporting President Museveni as he seeks re-election in the 2026 General Elections. “The President understands your issues. I will brief him ahead of his meeting with you so he comes prepared with solutions. I thank you for supporting him and encourage you to back him strongly again in 2026,” he said.
Kirunda further asked the President to allow him and farmer leaders to translate the Sugarcane Amendment Act into local languages to ensure growers fully understand the law and their rights under the council’s framework.
Museveni Begins Busoga Campaign Trail
President Museveni officially launched his Busoga Sub-region campaign trail on Saturday, November 15, 2025, with rallies in Bugiri District shortly after concluding his tour of Bukedi Sub-region in Busia in the morning.
The NRM presidential candidate is expected to spend the full coming week in Busoga and will close his tour with rallies in Iganga, Jinja City, and Jinja District on Friday, November 21, 2025. From Monday to Thursday, he will hold rallies in two districts per day, intensifying his mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2026 elections.
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