By KT Reporter
Sugarcane out-growers in the Bunyoro and Tooro sub-regions have protested over what they describe as unfair price variations imposed by sugar millers in the area. The farmers accuse the companies of exploiting them through inconsistent pricing structures, prompting the creation of the Bunyoro-Tooro Sugarcane Growers Association (BUTOS)—a new regional body aimed at advocating for fair prices and farmer interests in the sugar industry.
The two regions host five major sugar mills. These include Kinyara Sugar Limited in Masindi, Kiryandongo Sugar, Hoima Sugar Limited, Bwendero Sugar Factory in Hoima, and Kyenjojo Sugar Industries Limited in Kyenjojo district. According to Patrick Byamukama, Chairperson of BUTOS, price disparities are evident. Bwendero Sugar in Hoima district buys a tonne of sugarcane at Shs160,000.
Kinyara Sugar, Kiryandongo Sugar, and Hoima Sugar, operating in Masindi, Kiryandongo, and Kikuube districts respectively, each offer Shs128,000 per tonne. Meanwhile, Kyenjojo Sugar in Tooro pays the lowest at Shs90,000 per tonne. Byamukama said these discrepancies are eroding farmers’ earnings and viability, blaming the absence of a unified farmers’ voice for the current situation.
He emphasized that the new regional association will help coordinate advocacy efforts, improve bargaining power, and push for a uniform pricing policy across all millers. Moses Barwane, General Secretary of the Kyenjojo Sugarcane Out-growers Association, noted that many farmers in his district have abandoned sugarcane for other crops due to the unregulated and unfair pricing.
Max Francis Isingoma, Chairperson of the Hoima Cane Growers Association (HOCAGA), backed the formation of the joint association, saying it’s necessary for amplifying farmers’ concerns and pressuring the government for intervention. Robert Atugonza, the regional representative on the National Sugar Council, urged growers to unite under the new body.
He said it would strengthen advocacy, improve sustainability in sugarcane farming, and ensure that growers’ welfare is prioritized. David Muhumuza, Hoima City Commercial Officer, welcomed the formation of the association, noting it aligns with the Ministry of Trade guidelines requiring every region to be represented on the Uganda Sugar Board.
Muhumuza emphasized that BUTOS will act as the formal voice of sugarcane growers, ensuring their grievances reach key industry players and government agencies. With farmers increasingly frustrated and some opting out of sugarcane production altogether, stakeholders say the success of BUTOS will be critical in stabilizing the industry and safeguarding the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder growers across Bunyoro and Tooro-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
