Coffee Farmers in Bulambuli District Struggle with Rising Coffee Berry Disease, Urge for Urgent Support

Coffee farmers in the Buginyanya and Bumugibole sub-counties of Bulambuli district are increasingly concerned about the rise of coffee berry disease (CBD), which is severely affecting their yields and market opportunities.

CBD, caused by a fungal pathogen, is the most prevalent disease in Arabica coffee-growing regions. It leads to dark necrotic spots on the coffee berries and causes premature dropping of green berries.

Justine Gimei, a farmer from Buginyanya Line Village, reports that the disease has drastically impacted their expected output. “The situation is dire, especially given the high cost of pesticides that most farmers cannot afford. We urgently need assistance from the District Agricultural Office,” Gimei says.

Bwoyilisa Beth, a farmer from Bumasifwa Village in Bumugibole Sub-County, expressed concern about the high infection rate and the financial strain on farmers, forcing them to harvest coffee early at lower prices to meet family needs.

James Songo, the LCIII Chairperson of Buginyanya, confirmed that farmers are struggling with losses due to a lack of buyers. He noted that the price for one kilogram of raw coffee has dropped from 5,000 shillings to 2,000 shillings in affected rural areas.

Songo has called on the districts in the Bugisu region to intervene and support coffee farmers, as coffee cultivation is their primary source of income.

Bulambuli District Extension Officer Fuugo Rogers acknowledged the prevalence of CBD and assured that the district Agricultural team is working to control its spread. He advised farmers to adhere to proper coffee management practices to ensure quality yields. “Farmers need to pay close attention to CBD and maintain effective management practices to boost their household income,” Rogers emphasized.