Cocoa Farmers in Uganda Employ Gunmen Amid Spike in Prices
In Uganda, some farmers are resorting to hiring gunmen to safeguard their cocoa crops as thieves seek to exploit the increased value of the commodity. Global cocoa prices have surged to their highest levels over a decade due to dry weather conditions affecting production in Ghana and Ivory Coast, the world’s largest cocoa producers.
Mutanga Grace, a Ugandan cocoa farmer and CEO of Mkulima Exports Uganda revealed that approximately 30% of the cocoa beans grown in the East African nation are falling victim to theft. Speaking to BBC Newsday, Grace explained that farmers invest in armed guards and trained dogs to protect their cocoa fields, recognizing the significant financial stakes involved. Cocoa is a crucial ingredient in various consumer products such as chocolate, ice creams, and cakes, making it a highly sought-after commodity.
Grace emphasized the lucrative nature of cocoa in Uganda, describing it as a “hotcake” commodity where even small quantities pilfered by thieves translate into substantial financial losses for farmers. The situation underscores agricultural communities’ challenges in safeguarding their livelihoods amidst escalating theft and heightened demand for valuable crops.
The escalating theft of cocoa beans poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of Ugandan cocoa farmers, who rely on the crop as a primary source of income. With global cocoa prices soaring, driven by shortages in major producing countries, the temptation for theft has intensified, leading farmers to take drastic measures to protect their yields.
The hiring of armed guards and the deployment of guard dogs reflect the growing desperation among farmers to safeguard their cocoa fields and prevent losses. However, these measures also highlight the underlying vulnerability of agricultural communities facing challenges such as theft, climate change, and fluctuating market conditions.
As Uganda’s cocoa industry continues to expand and gain international recognition, addressing issues of theft and improving security measures will be crucial for sustaining growth and ensuring the prosperity of cocoa farmers. Efforts to combat theft may require collaborative initiatives involving government agencies, law enforcement, and local communities to enhance surveillance, strengthen law enforcement, and support affected farmers.
Ultimately, securing Uganda’s cocoa supply chain is essential not only for the economic well-being of farmers but also for maintaining the country’s position as a critical player in the global cocoa market. By addressing the root causes of theft and implementing effective security measures, Uganda can protect its valuable cocoa resources and support the livelihoods of its farmers for years to come.
