economy 2 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Grapples with Soaring Meat Prices Amidst Disease Outbreaks and Drought
Ugandans are facing significantly higher meat prices, with a kilogram of beef now costing between Shs20,000 and Shs22,000, largely due to disease outbreaks, dry spells, and increased export demand. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/disease-outbreaks-dry-spells-push-up-meat-prices-5482358
The cost of meat in Uganda has surged dramatically, pushing the price of a kilogram of beef from around Shs16,000 to Shs20,000-Shs22,000 in many areas. This sharp increase is forcing many households, particularly low-income families, to cut back on consumption or opt for cheaper alternatives like chicken.
Industry insiders attribute the price hike to a confluence of factors, including widespread animal disease outbreaks and stringent quarantine measures that have disrupted the supply chain. Districts across the cattle corridor have been affected by Foot-and-Mouth Disease, leading authorities to suspend the movement of livestock. Sulaaiman Ssekanyo, Chairperson of Kalerwe Abattoir, noted that these restrictions have significantly reduced the number of animals reaching markets.
Compounding the issue is a prolonged dry spell that has depleted pastures and water sources in key cattle-rearing regions, leading to malnourished livestock and a reduced supply for slaughter. Cattle traders also point to the influence of middlemen and increased demand from neighboring countries, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo, where traders are purchasing large numbers of cattle at competitive prices.
Rising transportation costs, fueled by increased fuel prices, further contribute to the overall expense of getting meat from abattoirs to consumers. Restaurant owners and households are already feeling the pinch, with some business owners reducing portion sizes and consumers struggling to afford their preferred protein.
While the recent closure of the Uganda-DRC border due to an Ebola outbreak might offer some respite by potentially easing export demand, the current price shock continues to strain household budgets and small businesses across the country.