Uganda drought threatens crop yields and raises food prices

A prolonged dry spell in Uganda is threatening agricultural yields and driving up food prices. Farmers in several districts report that crops, including beans, have begun to wither due to more than a month without significant rainfall. While maize and sunflower have shown more resilience, they remain dependent on upcoming rains to survive.

In Arua City, the lack of predictable rainfall has led to supply shortages and sharp increases in the cost of staples. Wholesale and retail prices for beans, maize, groundnuts, and millet have all risen significantly. Other affected commodities include cooking oil, sesame, and cassava flour.

The Ministry of Water and Environment has indicated that El Niño rains are expected between September and December, which may bring near-normal to above-normal rainfall to the Central, Northern, and Eastern regions of the country.