Buyende Coffee Farmers Protest Alleged Extortion by Quality Assurance Officer

Coffee growers in Irapa Village, Buyende District, have voiced their strong opposition to alleged corrupt practices by the regional coffee quality assurance officer, Ismael Kabaale. The farmers claim that Mr. Kabaale solicits money under the pretense of enforcing quality standards, frequently misidentifies ripe coffee as immature, and levies unfair fines.

Led by Ismail Kakonge, the disgruntled farmers reported that Mr. Kabaale, often accompanied by police and private individuals, raids their farms and stores. They allege that harvested and dried coffee beans are confiscated and taken to undisclosed locations. “We want justice,” stated Kakonge, recounting an incident where Shs750,000 was allegedly demanded before three bags of dried coffee were seized and transported for inspection.

Another farmer, Mohammed Boyi, expressed significant frustration, fearing that such intimidation could lead them back to sugarcane cultivation, a crop that has historically overshadowed coffee in the Busoga sub-region. The situation is further exacerbated by claims of arbitrary arrests. Annette Basirika, 62, alleged her son was detained and handcuffed after being falsely accused of harvesting immature berries, with her own intervention leading to a demand for payment for his release.

Fearing impunity, the farmers have appealed to the State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, and local government officials for intervention. Mr. Kabaale, whose oversight includes Kamuli, Jinja, and Luuka districts, has denied all allegations. He stated his work is purely regulatory, focused on ensuring farmers harvest only ripe cherries and dry them appropriately. He maintains that enforcement is to ensure compliance with quality standards and risk management.

These protests come at a critical juncture for agriculture in the Busoga region. Despite recent pushes by local leaders, the Uganda Coffee Development Authority, and the Ministry of Agriculture to significantly increase coffee yields, employment, and income, the farmers fear that heavy-handed tactics could derail these development goals. Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)