By Eye Media Reporter | Jinja July 1, 2025
Sugarcane farmers in Busoga have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Hajji Faruk Kirunda, the Deputy Presidential Press Secretary and Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilization, for his tireless efforts in fighting for their rights.
For years, sugarcane growers in the region struggled with a series of challenges—ranging from poor infrastructure, delayed payments, low cane prices, to exploitation by some millers and middlemen.
However, following sustained engagements and advocacy by Hajji Kirunda, the government responded positively. One of the major victories came through the passing and eventual signing into law of the Sugar Amendment Bill 2023, which introduced reforms meant to protect the ordinary cane farmer.
Among the highlights of the new law is the streamlining of licensing for millers, regulation of cane zones, and fairer pricing mechanisms. Farmers say this has started to bear fruit and hope it will lead to the revival of the sugar industry in Busoga.
“We are very thankful to Hajji Faruk Kirunda. He stood with us when many had abandoned us. Today we see light at the end of the tunnel,” said one of the leaders of a sugarcane farmers’ association in Mayuge.
The farmers have now rallied behind the government’s agenda of transforming agriculture and have vowed to work closely with leaders who have consistently advocated for their welfare.
