Sironko farmers stuck with produce after weekly markets suspension

Sironko, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Farmers and traders in Sironko district are stuck with sacks of maize, tomatoes, onions, matooke and Irish potatoes since the pronouncement on closure of markets and transport in the country.

Farmers in Sironko district are known for production and supply of food because of the fertile volcanic soils in the Elgon region.

Their buyers usually come from South Sudan, Gulu, Arua and Central Uganda to renown weekly markets like Mutufu, Gombe, Salalira, Buteza and Bugusege, but since the closure of the markets, the farmers have failed to sell off the produce leading to losses.

The farmers have decried a shortfall in the price and demand of their produce due to limited access of buyers to market centers.

Charles Masaba and Mary Neumbe, tomato and banana farmers respectively said they have failed to service loans they got from different micro-financial institutions as a result of the pandemic.

Tom Wamakuyu and Nicholas Wodudu, both maize and onion farmers said they have been forced to close their stores since their produce has started rotting.

Moses Nasaga, the LC III chairperson Bukiise sub county says that the biting lockdown has affected all sectors of the economy. He however urges farmers to consider life as the first priority before business.

Yiga Bukenya Seguya, the Chief Administrative Officer-CAO for Sironko district says the farmers have no option but to adhere to the presidential directives.

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