President Yoweri Museveni has officially signed the Sugarcane (Amendment) Act into law, marking a significant turning point in the regulation of Uganda’s sugar industry. In a statement shared after the signing, the President acknowledged the active involvement of both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament, and also highlighted a productive dialogue held with sugarcane farmers and millers.
This amendment comes after years of tension and complaints from sugarcane growers who have long felt exploited by millers and marginalized in policy discussions. Previously, the sugar sector was governed by laws that favored large millers, leaving smallholder farmers with little bargaining power and delayed payments. It also restricted the construction of new mills within certain distances, making it harder for new players to enter the market.
The new law seeks to address these imbalances by putting the interests of farmers at the forefront. It introduces clear pricing guidelines, enhances contract enforcement between farmers and millers, and removes some of the restrictions on setting up new sugar mills, allowing more competition and better access for local farmers.
President Museveni emphasized that this legislation is part of a broader strategic plan aimed at boosting the sugar industry and increasing income for Ugandan farmers. By protecting the rights of small-scale growers and encouraging fairer trade practices, the Act promises to bring more stability to the sector and improve livelihoods.
https://x.com/KagutaMuseveni/status/1928487017375051995
For the ordinary Ugandan, this means fairer prices, faster payments, and greater opportunity for participation in one of the country’s key agricultural sectors. It also signals government commitment to ensuring that economic growth benefits people at the grassroots, not just large corporations.
This Act could very well be the sweet relief Uganda’s sugarcane farmers have long waited for.
