Museveni Vows Showdown Over UCDA Amid Support for Farmers
Addressing local legislators, Museveni emphasized the need to counteract misinformation surrounding the government's rationalization of the UCDA
GOMBA — President Museveni has declared a confrontation with critics of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), labeling them “liars and criminals playing with fire".
Addressing local legislators, Museveni emphasized the need to counteract misinformation surrounding the government's rationalization of the UCDA, stating, “We are going to have a showdown. They will not like the counterattack.”
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His remarks reflect growing tensions as various stakeholders question the direction of agricultural policy in Uganda.
The President's visit included testimonials from beneficiaries of the poverty alleviation program, initiated in 2011, which aims to enhance wealth creation through agriculture.
Ms Sarah Nalwanga, coordinator of the initiative, reported that over 1,800 households in the region have benefited, with significant improvements in food security and income generation.
Local coffee farmer Mulika Noah Peterson praised the program, recounting his transformation from economic hardship to prosperity.
“I started with one acre of coffee in 2013 and now have four acres, making Shs 50 million annually,” he shared, highlighting the impact of the government's support.
Residents echoed similar sentiments, with Ms Rosette Kadoozi noting the economic benefits from dairy farming, which has provided her with a steady income of Shs 900,000 per month.
“We thank you, Your Excellency and Maama Janet, for making us rich,” she said.
The visit also included a tour of successful farms led by Vice President Jessica Alupo and other government officials.
They aimed to observe firsthand the effectiveness of the President's agricultural policies and the resulting improvements in the livelihoods of local farmers.
Criticism of the government's approach to the UCDA has sparked debate, with some local leaders asserting that detractors are misinformed.
Mr John Lule, a local council chairperson, described how the introduction of coffee seedlings transformed his community from food insecurity to agricultural abundance.
“We are now singing a different song, Your Excellency; we are transformed,” he asserted.
As the dialogue around the UCDA continues, Museveni's administration remains committed to supporting farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity, setting the stage for a potentially contentious showdown with opposition voices in the coming months.
