Unfavorable weather conditions in Oyam district have imperiled bean plantations, leaving local communities concerned about the impending risk of famine. Prolonged drought between July and August this year hampered bean growth, resulting in many households failing to harvest beans for their families.
As a consequence of these challenges, bean prices have surged in Oyam district this season, causing further worry among locals. Currently, a kilogram of beans is being sold at 4,500 UGX, up from 3,500 UGX, while a cap of beans now costs 1,600 UGX, up from 1,300 UGX.
Robert Alele, a farmer from Acaba sub-county in Oyam, shares that due to these difficulties, many farmers have shifted their focus to planting maize for food security in the current rainy season.
Tonny Ongom, another farmer from Minakulu town council in Oyam district, expresses concern that with only a few farmers able to harvest beans, prices may continue to rise, leading to acute famine by the following year.
In response to these challenges, Albino Cox Ogwal, the district production officer of Oyam district, encourages farmers to make the most of the current rainfall and plant crops that have shorter maturation periods, such as vegetables like eggplants and others.
Bean Price Increase in Oyam District
| Bean Product | Previous Price (UGX) | Current Price (UGX) |
|---|---|---|
| Kilogram of Beans | 3,500 | 4,500 |
| Cup of Beans | 1,300 | 1,600 |
