SIMPSON M
Coffee farmers in Rukungiri District have been advised to embrace the formation of cooperatives if they are to benefit more from the coffee sector.
This message, aimed at coffee farmers across the Kigezi region, was delivered on Thursday by Mr. Memory Akanyijuka, the Regional Agricultural Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF).
Speaking at Rwengiri Catholic Church in Bugangari Sub-county, where coffee farmers had gathered, Mr. Akanyijuka commended farmers for their efforts in planting coffee but urged them to form cooperatives to make it easier for government support to reach them.
He also warned farmers against harvesting immature coffee and milling under-dried coffee, noting that these practices are among the major factors affecting coffee quality and prices.
Mr. Akanyijuka revealed that over three coffee factories in Bikurungu Town Council, Bugangari, and Bwambara have been closed due to milling under-dried coffee. He called upon both farmers and factory owners to prioritize quality for the sustainability and growth of the coffee industry.
Some coffee farmers, including Joseph Akampurira and Julius Mugarura, said the workshop helped to enlighten farmers in Bugangari on advanced coffee farming methods, which they believe will significantly increase coffee production.
They also commended the Rukungiri District Production Office for its continued support and farmer education, saying this has greatly contributed to improved coffee production in the region.
The farmers appealed to their colleagues, especially coffee growers, to embrace the cooperative approach as they enter the new year, work together through cooperatives and associations, and achieve transformative progress.
