Uganda: Farmers blame rising milk prices on drought

Farmers have blamed the rising prices of milk on drought that has affected many parts of the country. Major milk producing areas including Sembabule, Nakasongola, Lyantonde, Bushenyi, Nakaseke, Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, among others, in the cattle corridor are experiencing a dry spell with a sharp reduction in water and pasture for the animals. Mr Duncan Ahimbisibwe Salongo, a farmer in Kyeitembe Village, Bushenyi District, says the shortage of pasture for his animals has lead to them producing less milk. "A cow that used to produce eight litres of milk can only produce four litres. The dry spell has hit us hard," Mr Salongo says. He adds: "I have seen more customers come for milk at my farm during the Covid-19 lockdown because all their children are at home but the capacity to meet the demands of my respective customers is currently low. You know what happens in times of scarcity." Ms Ruth Busingye, a resident of Bushenyi Town, says the milk prices increased from Shs1,200 per litre to ...