Victoria Sugar Ltd denies poaching sugarcane in Masindi

Masindi: Victoria Sugar Ltd has been at the center of controversy, with allegations of sugar cane poaching in the Masindi district.

However, the company vehemently denies any involvement in such practices.

Victoria Sugar is based in Luwero and has faced accusations of encroaching on other millers’ out-growers by engaging in sugar cane poaching.

Other sugar factories in the Bunyoro region have also expressed concern over Victoria Sugar’s actions, claiming that they affect the entire sugar industry in Uganda.

Ismail Nasif, the operations manager of Victoria Sugar, clarified that they do not participate in cane poaching. Instead, they purchase sugarcane directly from farmers.

‘’The company has a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Bunyoro Sugarcane Farmers Union, ensuring a fair price for the sugarcane we buy,’’ he said.

Nasif alleges that some leaders in Bunyoro are influenced by other sugar-producing companies, leading to unfair practices for sugarcane farmers.

Edison Mugisha, the company’s outgrowers manager in Masindi district, highlights that farmers choose to sell their cane to Victoria Sugar because they receive better prices compared to other millers.

According to Mugisha, the company’s commitment to timely payments has helped farmers address their challenges, unlike other companies that delay payments.

Mohamood Kazimbiraine, chairman of the Bunyoro Sugarcane Farmers’ Cooperative Union, urges anyone with complaints about sugarcane poaching to report the matter to the police for legal resolution.

‘’There is no sugarcane poaching in Masindi, and whoever is peddling that lie should catch the poachers and take them to police, and law takes its cause.’’

While allegations persist, Victoria Sugar maintains its innocence and emphasizes its commitment to fair practices in the sugarcane industry.

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