news 13 June 2026 Nile Post
Ntungamo Farmers Face Rising Coffee Theft Amidst Peak Harvest Challenges
Coffee growers in Ntungamo District are reporting a significant increase in theft during the current harvest season, with criminals targeting ripe cherries, dried beans, and even entire branches. This surge in criminal activity is causing considerable distress and financial loss to farmers who rely on the crop for their income. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/348458/coffee-farmers-battle-rising-theft-during-peak-harvest-season-in-ntungamo
Farmers in Ntungamo District are sounding the alarm as a wave of theft targets their coffee crops during the crucial peak harvest period. The thefts range from the outright stealing of ripe coffee cherries and dried beans to more destructive acts of breaking off entire branches laden with the valuable produce.
As the harvest season intensifies, many farmers utilize their homesteads and compounds for drying coffee, inadvertently creating opportunities for thieves. These criminals are reportedly striking directly from gardens, storage areas, and drying grounds, often disappearing before they can be apprehended.
Some farmers have described heart-wrenching incidents where their hard work is undone in moments. “No tree is left standing. They break them before the coffee ripens and steal it, and at times take the branches with them,” shared one affected farmer. Coffee dealers are also experiencing similar losses, noting how quickly thieves act when opportunities arise.
Adding to the farmers’ distress are allegations of difficulties in obtaining timely assistance from security agencies. Some residents claim they are sometimes asked for facilitation fees before police can respond, particularly in areas like Nyakyera Town Council. This raises concerns about access to justice and trust in law enforcement, especially when an already stolen harvest exacerbates financial hardship.
In response, Ntungamo Resident District Commissioner Miriam Mugisha Kagaiga has issued a stern warning to coffee thieves, vowing firm action. She also advised large-scale farmers to enhance security measures by installing surveillance cameras and employing guards. Kagaiga encouraged farmers to escalate unresolved issues to higher administrative levels if local responses prove insufficient.
Coffee is a vital cash crop for Ntungamo, and farmers are now appealing for improved community policing and united security efforts to protect their harvest and livelihoods during this critical season.
Source: Nile Post