Kagadi to regulate agro input dealers amid surge in counterfeit product complaints
“Any arrested or confiscated products must be reported to the police not taken home,” Mparana emphasized.
Kagadi: In response to a growing number of complaints from farmers over counterfeit agro-inputs, Kagadi District Local Government on Wednesday held an urgent sensitization meeting with agro-input and chemical dealers at the Town Council Headquarters.
The meeting, spearheaded by Kagadi District Agricultural Officer (DAO) Desire Mparana, was aimed at identifying genuine agrochemical dealers, mapping out their areas of operation, and cracking down on unlicensed and unscrupulous traders who are tarnishing the sector’s reputation.
“We are taking steps to clean up this industry. Dealers must operate transparently and notify our office if they plan to change their business operations,” Mparana stated.
He further warned that a dedicated inspection team has already been formed and enforcement actions would begin soon.
Mparana advised the dealers to avoid hiring of unskilled personnel in agro-input shops, warned them of poor recordkeeping of product consignments and misappropriation of confiscated or expired products.
“Any arrested or confiscated products must be reported to the police not taken home,” Mparana emphasized.
John Businge, Agricultural Officer for Kyaterekera Town Council and Sub-county and member of the inspection team, listed the basic standards required of agro input and chemical shops. These include; a clearly visible signpost, ventilation for proper air circulation, pallets to keep products off the ground, fire extinguishers and hand-washing stations.
Murungi Tumusiime, Assistant Agricultural Officer for Kyenzige Town Council and Sub-county and fellow inspection committee member, reassured attendees that the initiative is not intended to victimize dealers but rather to instill professionalism and order in the sector.
Dealers in attendance welcomed the meeting, calling it informative and necessary. However, they also raised concerns over challenges such as; unfair competition from suppliers outside the district, inconsistent pricing of agro products and lack of formal recognition and certification.
To address these concerns and strengthen regulatory oversight, the district plans to arrest and prosecute unregistered or unlicensed dealers, crack down on illegal agro-input suppliers, hold quarterly review meetings for continuous engagement and establish a dedicated WhatsApp group to streamline communication and incident reporting.
According to dealers, the initiative is expected to improve the quality of agro-inputs in Kagadi, protect farmers, and enhance trust in the agricultural supply chain.
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