Farmers in Masaka City are counting heavy losses following nearly four months of persistent sunshine and drought that has left coffee, matooke and other food crops completely dry.

During a visit to farmers in Kanabukulilo village Bisanje ward Kimanya kabonera Division in Masaka City, the State Minister for Local Government, Honourable Justine Nameere Nsubuga, expressed concern over the devastating impact of the drought on farmers and their livelihoods.

Farmers also raised concerns about the increasing presence of fake fertilisers on the market, saying they have lost money after purchasing products that fail to deliver the expected results.

Honourable Nameere expressed disappointment with agricultural extension workers and production officers saying they had not adequately guided farmers on how to prepare for and respond to prolonged dry spells. She noted that some of the losses could have been reduced if the responsible officers had effectively played their role.

The Minister revealed that government has recently signed a new irrigation project, with Masaka City among the beneficiaries, aimed at strengthening farmers’ resilience and supporting agricultural production during prolonged dry spells.

The Minister pledged to engage the Office of the Prime Minister to explore possible support for the affected farmers and called for action against fake agricultural inputs as government seeks immediate and long-term solutions to the challenges facing farmers. Honourable Nameere was accompanied during the visit by the Masaka Resident City Commissioner, Mr. Washaki Ahmed.