Politics 2 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Uganda Parliament Delays Sugarcane Weighbridge Debate Amid Theft Concerns
Uganda's Parliament has postponed its discussion on regulating sugarcane weighbridges until April 15, tasking State Minister David Bahati with a comprehensive statement. The move follows closures of roadside weighbridges in Masindi linked to sugarcane theft and illicit trade. Source: https://observer.ug/news/parliament-to-scrutinises-weighbridges-amid-sugarcane-theft-complaints
Uganda’s Parliament has put on hold the debate over sugarcane weighbridge regulations, scheduling it for April 15. State Minister for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (Industry), David Bahati, has been instructed to present a detailed ministerial statement addressing the issues.
This pause in policy decisions comes after recent shutdowns of roadside weighbridges in major sugarcane regions. Bahati emphasized the importance of these facilities for fair transactions, noting they help farmers verify cane weights before sales. However, he admitted to oversight shortcomings that allow unlicensed operations to fuel disputes.
Most weighbridges belong to sugar millers to manage supply chains, but regulatory gaps have enabled problems. In Masindi District, authorities closed sites like Katuugo, Rukondwa, Kihande, and Mirya due to ties with stolen sugarcane and unauthorized dealings.
Local officials, including Masindi District Chairperson Cosmas Byaruhanga and Kyatiri Town Council rep John Kisarach, criticized middlemen at these spots for undermining farmers’ earnings. They advocate eliminating intermediaries to ensure direct benefits for growers.
In response, weighbridges are being relocated to highway-controlled zones, with operations restricted to licensed millers under the Sugar Act for better tracking and enforcement.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)