“I’m into poultry farming with over 4,000 birds in Masaka–Kijjabwemi, but I’m distressed with the fluctuating maize prices. At first, a year ago, I thought it was just an oversight, but now I’m at my last straw,” Mr. Kitandwe lamented.

Agriculture is the backbone of Uganda’s economy, contributing greatly to its GDP. However, we have noticed a setback in the sector that has severely affected both large- and smallholder farmers. Among the crops most affected is maize, with limited availability to feed the hungry population.

Uganda’s small-scale farmers have traditionally cultivated maize for both food and income generation. It forms an important part of the farming system, particularly in Eastern Uganda. The main production agro-ecological zones are in the west, east, north, and south-east of the country (NRE/IITA, 2002). In terms of area planted, maize is the third most cultivated crop after bananas and beans. In some regions, it has become a staple food, replacing crops like sorghum, millet, cassava, and bananas.

Whilst production is influenced by climate patterns, farmers’ planting intentions—beyond subsistence needs—are largely shaped by price levels. As a result, overall output tends to fluctuate accordingly (FAO, 2012).

The current high maize prices are severely affecting maize-related activities, and there is a pressing need for government to intervene—starting from improved seed varieties to the establishment of well-structured granaries. We must ask ourselves: what happens in situations of surplus production? Do smallholder farmers have the means to store their harvest, or are they forced to sell it off impulsively?

With climate change at hand, will we continue lamenting, or shall we collectively embrace irrigation? Are the subsidies given to irrigation companies increasing the number of farmers acquiring irrigation kits, or not?

There is need for collective efforts:

• Developing drought-resistant varieties.
• Forming cooperatives among smallholder farmers.
• Sharing irrigation kits and agricultural knowledge.
• Making inputs more accessible to farmers.
• Constructing storage facilities and collection centers.
• Adding value to maize products.
• Encouraging youth to take up agriculture.

Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), is called upon to rescue the situation. Otherwise, we shall continue to see many Ugandans abandoning farming and running to Arab countries in search of “better lives.”