Masindi farmers warned against premature sugarcane harvesting
He asserted that this financial support could help farmers avoid premature harvesting by providing them with necessary funds.
Masindi: Masindi Sugarcane Growers’ Association Limited (MSGAL) is taking significant steps to ensure the quality and profitability of sugarcane farming in the district.
By setting a minimum harvesting age of 13 months, they aim to improve the overall yield and quality of the sugarcane, which can benefit both the farmers and the millers.
The resolution was made over the weekend during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Kabango Church of Uganda in Kabango Town Council Masindi district.
Robert Atugonza, the MSGAL Chairperson, highlighted that harvesting sugarcane prematurely, often between ten and twelve months, can negatively impact the income of farmers and disrupt their relationship with the millers.
He advised farmers to seek loans instead of harvesting early, as premature harvesting does not guarantee immediate payment.
Cosmas Byaruhanga, the Masindi district LCV chairman, has made some important suggestions to help sugarcane farmers. He emphasized the need for the miller and MSGAL to sign contracts on behalf of farmers to prevent premature harvesting and avoid losses.
‘’Involving MSGAL in the contract process between farmers and millers could help prevent premature harvesting and ensure better coordination. Additionally, uniting to advocate for higher cane prices could further support the farmers’ economic stability.’’
Byaruhanga also advised farmers to keep detailed records of their income and expenses to help them negotiate better cane prices and treat sugarcane growing as a business for profitability.
He also highlighted the importance of diversifying crops, suggesting that farmers should not rely solely on sugarcane but also consider growing alternative crops like cocoa and coffee due to the scarcity of land.
David Kyetume Kasanga, a sugarcane farmer, called for Kinyara Sugar Ltd. to reinstate extension services to support farmers, noting that sometimes the company harvests cane without the farmers’ knowledge.
John Karuhanga, another sugarcane farmer, stressed the need for unity among farmers to address their challenges effectively, pointing out that leaders have often failed to support them adequately.
SACCO formation
In the same meeting, members agreed to form a Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization (SACCO).
Robert Atugonza, the MSGAL Chairperson, expressed optimism that the SACCO will be operational by November and will provide significant support to the farmers.
‘’Kinyara Sugar Ltd. has agreed to provide interest-free funds as an annual revolving loan to the SACCO, and the Uganda Development Bank (UDB) has also agreed to offer loans at a 10.5% annual interest rate to farmers with registered business names,’’ he said.
Atugonza asserted that this financial support could help farmers avoid premature harvesting by providing them with necessary funds.
He also encouraged farmers to grow more sugarcane to protect their land from grabbers and meet the high demand for raw materials, as Kinyara plans to mill 10,000 tons of sugarcane per day. Atugonza also emphasized the importance of not selling their land but instead using it to grow sugarcane.
Cosmas Byaruhanga, the Masindi district LCV Chairman, highlighted that the SACCO will empower farmers financially, allowing them to save, buy shares, get loans, and have better bargaining power with the miller and the government.
Byaruhanga also encouraged members to support the SACCO to access other opportunities like government grants and materials from various organizations. ‘’This collective effort could significantly improve the financial stability and bargaining power of the farmers,’’ added.
James Komujara emphasized that the SACCO could indeed provide farmers with easier access to funds for their farming activities, reducing their reliance on bank loans.
Kenneth Kiiza Nyendwoha, the Bujenje County MP, pointed out the challenges of the four-acre model farm due to price fluctuations, using the example of maize flooding the market.
‘’We declined to pass the Sugar Bill since it has veiled zoning and 50% sharing, which they wanted to be increased; however, we are reviewing the bill,’’ he said, noting that since that president will be in Bunyoro for the poverty eradication campaign, and as leaders, they are pushing for MSGAL board members to meet the president and share their challenges.
New leadership
During the same AGM, members elected the new board, which will run for three years.
Robert Atugonza was re-elected as the chairperson for a second term, deputized by Phenehasi Kyotasobora; Patrick Byamukana was elected the secretary; and David Byensi the treasurer.
Olivia Mugisa, Twesige Timothy, Mary Mujumura, James Komujara, and Beatrice Bigirwenkya were elected as the board members, while Solomon Kahwa is an ex-official.
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