Busoga Region Faces Deepening Malnutrition Crisis Amidst Sugarcane Expansion

Busoga, historically known for its abundant agricultural output, is now confronting a worsening malnutrition crisis, impacting thousands of children with stunting, anemia, and undernourishment. Despite being Uganda’s ‘sugar belt,’ many families in the region struggle to access or afford adequate food, a situation exacerbated by the expansion of sugarcane plantations.

An investigation by the Uganda Parliamentary Alliance on Food and Nutrition Security (UPA-FNS) revealed that the shift towards sugarcane farming, coupled with declining food crop production, poor feeding habits, and persistent poverty, are the primary drivers of this crisis. Vast tracts of land once dedicated to maize, beans, and vegetables are now covered in sugarcane, forcing families to rely on expensive, purchased food.

Community leaders and nutrition experts highlight that many households lease or sell land for sugarcane, leaving insufficient plots for subsistence farming. This economic decision, while providing some income, often compromises the nutritional well-being of families. “We see sugarcane grown right up to people’s homes, yet the same families are complaining of hunger,” stated Ms. Jacqueline Namusalisi, Technical Coordinator for Nutrition-Sensitive Agriculture at Sasakawa Africa Association.

Beyond land use, a significant knowledge gap regarding nutrition and dietary practices is worsening the problem. Poor food preparation, inadequate storage, and a lack of awareness about balanced diets contribute to the issue. Ms. Namusalisi noted that vegetables are often overcooked, reducing their nutritional value, while improper drying and storage of maize can lead to aflatoxin contamination.

Local officials also point to detrimental dietary choices, with parents sometimes prioritizing processed snacks over nutritious foods like eggs. “We still see parents selling eggs and buying pancakes or soda for children. This is not only poverty; it is also a lack of nutrition education,” said Ms. Caroline Kiwala, Assistant Resident District Commissioner for Iganga District. Many families heavily depend on starchy foods like cassava and maize, neglecting locally available vegetables, fruits, and protein sources.

The parliamentary assessment further indicated dire dietary diversity among children, with many households relying on limited staples. This situation is starkly reflected in schools, where up to 70 percent of primary school pupils reportedly attend classes on empty stomachs, severely impacting their concentration and academic performance.

This situation demands urgent attention, with calls for increased nutrition education, diversification of crops beyond sugarcane, and government support for affordable cooking technologies to ensure food security and better health outcomes in the Busoga region.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)