President Yoweri Museveni has signed the Sugarcane (Amendment) Act into law, pledging renewed government backing for both sugarcane farmers and millers while reaffirming a broader commitment to transforming Uganda’s agricultural sector.
At the signing ceremony, which included a closed-door strategy session, the president met with a delegation of farmers and millers to chart a path forward for implementing the new legislation. He lauded the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Parliament for their dedication to advancing the amendment, which he said comes at a critical time for addressing systemic challenges in the sugar industry.
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The discussions focused on persistent industry concerns—such as pricing disputes, delayed payments to outgrowers, and inefficiencies in the supply chain. Museveni reassured stakeholders of the government’s intention to create a fair and efficient system that protects both producers and processors.
“We are committed to ensuring our sugar industry not only survives but thrives,” Museveni said. “Working with all stakeholders—from farmers to millers—we aim to build a future of sustainability, competitiveness, and prosperity.”
The amended law introduces stricter regulatory oversight and aims to streamline operations across the sugar value chain. Key proposals include establishing clear pricing mechanisms, investing in modern milling technologies, and enhancing outgrower capacity through training and support.
The President acknowledged that previous policy gaps had left farmers vulnerable and millers at the mercy of unstable market conditions. He emphasized that the new law, coupled with a detailed implementation plan, is designed to restore confidence and stability.
“The government will not stand by as our farmers are exploited or our economy underperforms,” Museveni said. “We’re creating a system that benefits producers, processors, and consumers alike.”
Farmers welcomed the move but stressed the need for swift action. Many voiced concerns about persistent delays in payments and poor infrastructure affecting their livelihoods.
“There is hope again,” said a farmer representative from Busoga. “But we want more than promises—we want to see action.”
The Sugarcane (Amendment) Act forms part of a broader strategy to revive Uganda’s agriculture sector, which employs the majority of the population but continues to suffer from low productivity, minimal value addition, and policy instability.
As the meeting concluded, Museveni reiterated his commitment to ensuring the law serves as a catalyst for positive change.
“This industry is too important to fail,” he said. “We will protect it, develop it, and ensure our farmers are rewarded for their hard work.”
With the law now enacted, the focus turns to the Ministry of Agriculture, local governments, and regulators, who must now work together to implement its provisions and deliver results at the grassroots.
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