Section
Recent agriculture coverage and related updates from across Uganda Online.
agriculture 6 April 2026
An unidentified disease has killed 266 of the 372 pigs distributed to farmers in Kalangala District on March 13 under the National Oil Palm Programme, sparking widespread concern. The outbreak has spread to existing livestock, prompting lab tests and a pig movement ban. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/strange-disease-leaves-pig-farmers-counting-losses-5414654
agriculture 6 April 2026
Africa's soil has long been undervalued as a passive farming medium rather than a vital capital asset, resulting in uniform inputs on diverse, degraded lands and stagnant productivity. Strategic soil management can push farms past a critical tipping point, enabling surplus generation, resilience, and sustainable growth. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/soil-is-africa-s-hidden-asset-5414498
agriculture 3 April 2026
In Yumbe District's Orionji B and Invetre villages, smallholder farmers, especially young women, are shifting from staple crops like maize and cassava to fast-growing vegetables and watermelons, boosting food security and incomes. Supported by local agribusiness and development programs, they leverage fertile valley soils for multiple harvests yearly. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/farming/how-rural-farmers-are-turning-to-horticulture-to-fight-hunger-5412900
farming 3 April 2026
Aspiring farmers in Uganda can boost yields and profits by adopting key practices like timely planting, seed selection, and weed control. Regular farm inspections, proper spacing, mulching, and seeking expert advice are crucial for high returns. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/farming/some-of-the-main-crop-production-practices-5412898
agriculture 3 April 2026
Shea butter and coffee dominated the spotlight at the five-day agriculture exhibition in Gulu, blending traditional practices with cutting-edge research to boost northern Uganda's farming economy. Experts highlighted innovations in processing, cultivation, and value addition to help farmers achieve higher incomes and sustainability. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/farming/shea-butter-coffee-take-centre-stage-at-agriculture-exhibition-5412894
farming 3 April 2026
Farmers across Uganda are embracing precise measurements throughout the farming cycle to optimize resources, boost yields, and prevent costly errors like crop failure or livestock loss. Experts emphasize that accurate quantification, from land allocation to fertilizer application, is essential for profitable agriculture. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/farming/why-measurements-matter-5412890
Business 2 April 2026
Uganda's sugar industry stakeholders have convinced the government to lift its ban on roadside sugarcane weighbridges, opting instead for strict regulations to prevent theft and ensure fair trade. The decision came after a key meeting led by the State Minister for Trade, addressing concerns from farmers in Busoga. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-rescinds-decision-to-ban-roadside-sugarcane-weighbridges-5411618
Politics 2 April 2026
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
Business 2 April 2026
Uganda highlighted its premium coffee, tea, and dairy products at the HOTELEX Shanghai 2026 expo, organized by its Beijing embassy, to connect exporters with Chinese buyers ahead of China's zero-tariff policy on African exports starting in May. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-showcases-premium-coffee-tea-and-dairy-products-at-shanghai-expo-5411334
agriculture 1 April 2026
Sylvia Namukose evolved from subsistence groundnut farming in Kibale to producing tonnes on six acres after Heifer International training, while innovator Nakalema Assumpta scales poultry tech in Mbarara. These stories highlight women's rising role in Uganda's agriculture amid efforts to boost skills, finance, and markets. Source: https://observer.ug/news/she-started-small-now-her-farm-feeds-thousands
agriculture 30 March 2026
Farmers in Uganda's Lango sub-region are pressing the Ministry of Agriculture for subsidies on inputs, irrigation systems, and better regulation amid high costs and climate challenges that threaten their soybean yields, despite successes from the National Oil Seed Project. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/lango-farmers-demand-action-on-high-input-costs-climate-shocks-5407756
agriculture 28 March 2026
Farmers from West Nile gathered at the Omia Agribusiness and Renewable Energy Expo in Arua to learn modern farming practices, climate adaptation strategies, and market linkages, boosting incomes and job opportunities for young women. The event under the SIYEP programme highlights innovations like solar irrigation amid climate challenges. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/west-nile-expo-draws-farmers-to-climate-smart-agriculture-green-jobs-5406112
agriculture 27 March 2026
Uganda's seed system has evolved from a chaotic and unpredictable setup to a structured, commercial framework fueled by collaborations among research bodies, government, and private firms. Facilities like Naro Holdings in Kigumba are central to producing high-quality early generation seeds that boost farmer productivity nationwide. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/farming/uganda-on-track-to-build-modern-seed-industry-5405704
farming 27 March 2026
Ugandan farmers need vital support from veterinarians, extension officers, mechanics, and banks to tackle farming challenges effectively. These services provide expert advice on animal health, pest control, equipment repairs, and financial access to boost productivity. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/farming/different-services-that-farmers-urgently-need-5405610
Business 24 March 2026
Uganda's coffee sector is booming, with recent earnings of $2.4 billion from 8.7 million bags exported between December 2024 and 2025, and projections to hit Shs20 trillion by 2030. Growth is fueled by better farming, global demand, and value addition efforts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/commodities/coffee-exporters-project-earnings-to-hit-shs20-trillion-by-2030-5401940
agriculture 23 March 2026
Africa's food security hinges on reliable water access amid worsening droughts and climate shocks, with experts urging investment in climate-smart irrigation and solar-powered technologies. Scaling these solutions for farmer clusters can transform rain-fed agriculture into resilient systems. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/investing-in-water-to-feed-africa-5400024
agriculture 23 March 2026
Zake Eberu from Leaguru Village in Adjumani has turned beekeeping into a sustainable livelihood, producing various honey products while protecting local forests. His efforts support environmental conservation amid deforestation challenges in the refugee-hosting area. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/adjumani-farmer-turns-apiculture-into-green-enterprise-5399894
Business 19 March 2026
Women in Mbale, Sironko, and Bududa districts are transforming their livelihoods by processing coffee to premium standards, earning significantly more than from raw sales. Initiatives like training and cooperatives empower them with higher prices, financial independence, and community impact. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/bugisu-women-mint-cash-from-selling-quality-coffee-5397142
Business 19 March 2026
Uganda is ramping up efforts to draw Chinese investment into its agriculture sector through a key forum in China's Hunan Province, capitalizing on Beijing's zero-tariff policy for African goods to promote value addition and boost exports. Officials spotlight untapped arable land, incentives, and strategic partnerships to transform the economy. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-courts-chinese-investors-to-boost-agro-exports-5397136
news 19 March 2026
Farmers in Masindi District are voicing frustration over the government's removal of roadside sugarcane weighbridges, which they say has stranded their harvest and spiked transport costs to factories. Officials justify the move as a way to curb illegal trade and cane theft in the Bunyoro region. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/masindi-farmers-speak-out-on-weighbridge-relocation-5397134
news 19 March 2026
Members of the Sebei Elgon Cooperative Union are protesting a proposed 20-year lease of 500 acres of union land to Itracom Ltd for a fertiliser factory and potato farm, claiming leaders signed an MOU without consultation. They have issued a 14-day ultimatum for an annual general meeting, warning that up to 500 families could lose access to the land currently rented annually to locals. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/sebei-farmers-protest-20-year-lease-of-500-acres-of-land-to-investor-5396260
Business 19 March 2026
Uganda is boosting its position as a top grain supplier in East Africa by aligning with regional standards on quality and grading, though challenges like differing testing procedures persist. Initiatives like farmer aggregation and certification reforms are driving structured trade and market access. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/harmonised-standards-are-making-uganda-a-reliable-grain-supplier-5396468
Business 19 March 2026
Women farmers in Bugisu region are boosting incomes through value addition in coffee production, transforming raw beans into premium products that meet national standards. Initiatives led by entrepreneurs like Meridah Nandudu empower them with training, new revenue streams from byproducts, and greater financial independence. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/quality-coffee-the-money-minting-machine-for-bugisu-women-5396294
national 19 March 2026
Residents of Pachara Sub-county in Adjumani District have donated 45 acres of land for a State Lodge and demonstration farm to promote agricultural innovation and regional development. The site will showcase modern farming techniques and high-yield livestock to empower local smallholder farmers. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/adjumani-community-offers-45-acres-for-state-lodge-demonstration-farm-5396254
energy 19 March 2026
Uganda's sugar factories are transforming bagasse, the fibrous waste from sugarcane crushing, into electricity via cogeneration, powering operations and feeding surplus into the national grid. Government targets up to 120MW expansion to boost renewable energy and reduce fossil fuel reliance. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/how-sugarcane-waste-is-driving-clean-energy-shift-5396238
economy 18 March 2026
Agriculture remains the powerhouse behind Uganda's impressive 8.7% economic growth, acting as the nation's 'green gold' and profoundly influencing overall economic health. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/the-green-gold-how-agriculture-is-fueling-uganda-s-8-7-growth-5395282
Politics 14 March 2026
President Museveni has promised government backing for retired Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo's 'Rocco Paco' initiative to promote widespread farming in the Acholi sub-region. The effort seeks to overcome persistent poverty despite past recovery investments. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/museveni-pledges-support-for-owiny-dollo-s-agriculture-drive-in-northern-uganda-5391152
agriculture 14 March 2026
Uganda now produces 210,000 metric tonnes of honey per year, a massive jump from 4,000 tonnes in 2023, with 1.2 million people engaged in beekeeping. The country exports 80,000 tonnes of honey and is hosting a major international symposium to boost the sector. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-produces-210-000-metric-tonmes-of-honey-report-5391014
Business 14 March 2026
Fifteen food processing businesses in northern Uganda will benefit from Shs600 million in partial grants to adopt renewable energy and efficient technologies, tackling high upfront costs. The initiative, led by GIZ Uganda, the Ministry of Energy, and UIBFS, targets SMEs in Lango, Acholi, and West Nile sub-regions to boost productivity and cut expenses. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/farming/15-food-processors-to-benefit-from-shs600-million-grants-5390616
news 13 March 2026
The rise of sugarcane farming in Uganda's Busoga sub-region is fueling fatal accidents from poorly maintained trucks, criminal hideouts in plantations, and social issues like school dropouts and teenage pregnancies. Stakeholders highlight road damage, food insecurity, and environmental degradation amid the crop's dominance over traditional farming. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/how-sugarcane-growing-leaves-basoga-vulnerable-5389758
Business 12 March 2026
Sweden has provided €360,000 (approximately Shs1.5 billion) through SIDA to Fairtrade Africa for a two-year project promoting youth involvement in Uganda's coffee cooperatives. The initiative targets 500 young people in three Fairtrade-certified cooperatives to support the sector's growth toward a 20 million bag production goal by 2030. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/sweden-injects-shs1-5-billion-to-boost-youth-in-uganda-coffee-sector-5389528