Karamoja June Commodity Price Outlook.

The Central area of Karamoja covering Nakapiripirit, Moroto, and the southern part of Napak districts continued to receive rainfall in the opening weeks of June rendering most of the low laying arable areas water logged. Some districts in north of the region have reported dry episodes without rainfall in the final weeks leading to crop stress. In Nakapiripirt district, the crop stress was as a result of water logging.  

An increase in maize grain price in Napak district market was recorded from Ugx.3200/can to Ugx.3500/can weighing 3.5 kilos. Sorghum price was stable throughout the month of June at Ugx.3000/ can weighing 3.5kgs.Charcoal was offered at a high price of Ugx.45,000 per bag. Retailing charcoal in basins was also reported at an increased price of Ugx.8,000-10,000 depending on availability. The rainfall received during the early part of the month could not allow people to pick up more firewood and charcoal resulting in less supply.

In the livestock market, demand for animals to mark the Muslim Eid celebration was high leading to a temporary increment in livestock market prices. Big bulls’ price increased to Ugx.1.8-2M per animal. Goats and sheep sold much faster.

Indications of crop stress was visible in the district of Kotido as less rainfall was received during the month of June, however, plenty of fresh commodities were delivered into the district markets from Mbale/Soroti trade route. Lower grain prices for both maize and sorghum were recorded in June due to plenty stocked in the district stores that wasn’t bought off as traders speculated for better price. Maize grain price declined from Ugx.105,000 per bag at wholesale to Ugx.90,000.  A jug of maize grain cost Ugx.1800 during market days and was expected to drop further to Ugx.1500/ jug given the available supply from the stores within the district. Sorghum price equally reduced due to supply from the district stores and from Agago district. Fresh cassava was delivered from Teso sub region in plenty. Charcoal and firewood price were expensive at Ugx.45,000 per bag and Ugx.8000-10,000 a big bundle respectively.

More livestock sales were reported in Kotido district during the month of June compared to the previous month. Big bulls were offered at Ugx.1.5- 2Million. The Eid celebration registered more goat and sheep sales. On average 2-3 trucks of animals were loaded out of the market daily.

A reduction in the beans price was recorded in Amudat district as more supply was delivered from Mbale and Kapchorwa. Transit traders also delivered with them Irish potatoes and fresh cassava. K20 beans price declined from Ugx.5000-6000/kg to Ugx.3000-4000/kg at retail. The maize price was reported stable during the month of June at Ugx. 4000 per can weighing 3.5 kgs. In the livestock market, high prices were recorded during the Eid celebration as the Muslim community slaughtered animals for the day. Few transit traders in the livestock sector using trucks reached the market from Soroti/Mbale and beyond. More internal animal sales were reported within the district.    

Abim

During the month of June, Abim district reported the lowest maize price at Ugx.600/kg. The current supply of maize realized from stores in the district is likely to drop the grain price lower at Ugx.500/kg. Similarly sorghum supply was good rending the market price low at Ugx.400/kg.

Fresh cassava was also reported in plenty throughout the month of June. A bigger heap weighing 1.8kgs was offered at Ugx.1000 retail price. Other fresh items were not adequately supplied to the market. Rice and beans were offered at higher price.

The Livestock markets were open however, very few animals got the market. Internal selling amongst locals took place within the district. Offer to sell prices were stable and similar to the previous month’s prices. Goat and sheep prices increased mid-month because of Idd festival. 

Fresh cassava was harvested from within the district during June. Very low supply of sweet potatoes got to the market. Newly harvested beans were supplied to the district during the closing weeks of the month from Mbale.

Declining grain prices were reported during June for the district markets in Kaabong. The available maize grain supply from the district stores was offered at a lower price. The women farmer groups continued to sell off their grain in a bid to raise funds acquired form Post Bank to supply W.F.P last season.   A can of maize weighing 3.5 kilo declined from Ugx.3000 to Ugx.2800 at retail. Sorghum price was maintained stable at Ugx.3000/can. Beans were offered cheaper from Mbale at Ugx.2500-3000/kg compared to Ugx.4000/kg in the previous month. Very low supply of fresh cassava was registered from Mbale pushing the price higher. Minimum livestock trading activities were reported in June 2024. Some cattle trading was done outside the designated locations. Pockets of insecurity regarding cattle theft were mentioned in Kaaabong district.

Effects of above normal rainfall were evident in the gardens as the crop turn yellow due to a lot of water in the low laying arable areas in Nakapiripirit district and some parts of southern Karamoja. Other districts that were affected included Moroto, Nabilatuk and Napak. The seasonal crop has been affected badly and could have a heavy impact on the food security situation of the district. Apparently sorghum price was reported stable at Ugx.3000/ can weighing 3.3kgs

Transit traders from Mbale delivered maize grain at Ugx.105,000 per bag. During market days, maize was offered at Ugx.3500 per can weighing 3.5 kilos rendering the maize grain price high at Ugx.1000/kg. The district also mentioned pockets of insecurity along the road. Increasing grain price was reported in Nakapiripirit district compared to Ugx.3000/can in May, 2024. Some newly harvested beans reached the market from within, however, supply was mainly from Mbale. The food basket was further facilitated by traders delivering cassava and sweet potatoes from Mbale. Good supply of banana and matooke from within the district was reported. Medium size bunch of matooke cost Ugx.18,000. Newly harvested Irish potatoes from Kapchorwa got to the market at Ugx.1500/kg. Declining charcoal and firewood prices were reported.  Reducing animal prices were recorded in Nakapiripirit with an exception of the Eid celebration. Big bulls were offered at Ugx.1.1M from Ugx.1.5M previously.

Maize grain was equally offered cheaper in Moroto district in the month of June compared to what was in the month of May. A can of maize weighing 3.5 kilos cost Ugx.2800 while Sorghum was cheaper than maize at Ugx.2700-2800 per can. Some beans harvesting was mentioned within the district, however, majority of supply was delivered from Mbale. K20 beans were offered at Ugx.3500/kg. Other varieties like mixed beans were much cheaper at Ugx.2000/kg. Other commodities delivered from outside the district included Irish potatoes and matooke at Ugx.1700-1800/Kg and Ugx.28,000 per bunch. Good quality maize flour was also offered low at Ugx.2000/kg retail price. Fresh cassava was in plenty and therefore cheaper at Ugx.1000 per heap.

Increasing firewood price was recorded at Ugx.8,000 for the month of June while a bag of charcoal reduced Ugx.15,000 each. In the livestock market, few transit traders turned out during the month of June due to impassable roads and pockets of insecurity, however, the rainfall stopped mid-month and weather conditions turned dry. The animal offer prices declined after the Eid feast to Ugx.1million for a big bull.

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June Commodity Outlook.

There was a stable price reported at the border market for maize at the opening of the month of June which gradually increased into the month. An estimated 1500-1800MT of grain was bought off by the Kenyan traders that turned up at Busia Border Produce market. This was after the reduction of supply of Tanzanian maize to Kenya which rendered Uganda maize cheaper to the Kenyan traders that forced them back into this market. Good quality maize was offered at Ugx.849/kg (Ksh.29) while the least acceptable maize quality was bought off at Ugx.791/kg (Ksh.27).

Fast trading was reported mid-month at an estimated 1000-1800Mt daily. A huge stock pile of maize grain was dropped on the border post market of Busia. Several transit traders from Kenya purchased good quality grain at the same price of Ugx.849/kg (Ksh29).

In the final week of the month, newly harvested maize grain was delivered to Busia and two offer prices for grain were reported. Old stock maize was purchased at a reduced price of Ugx.748/kg(Ksh.26) while newly harvested maize was offered at Ugx.690/kg (Ksh.24). Traders claimed to have lost a lot of money in the just concluded season where a bumper harvest was realized. The northern region stocked more maize compared to other regions that delivered to the same market. Production estimates indicate that there will be a reduced supply of grain due to weather constraints but also losses from the previous season.

The new seasonal maize grain was reported on the market in Kampala at Ugx.700-720/kg. Supply was delivered from Hoima, Kyankwanzi, Kibaale and Kiboga. Old stock maize grain was purchased at a high price of Ugx.770-780/kg depending on quality. This grain supply had an impact on the maize flour price low to Ugx.1400-1500/kg at wholesale Kisenyi/Owino price.

Maize was reported at the highest price of Ugx.800/kg in Kampala this season compared to last year where maize hit Ugx.1780/kg in the same market. Likewise, a stable price for grain was reported in Kampala for a few weeks at the beginning of the month. Slow trading for grain was registered in this market due to low demand for grain as a result of competition from other staples such as Matooke and plenty of maize grain from the just concluded season.

Indications of declining maize grain price started in the third week when new grain arrived at the Kampala market which registered two grain prices for old stock and new grain prices. New maize grain was offered at Ugx.720/kg while old stock grain dropped to Ugx.780/kg from Ugx.800/kg. Supply of newly harvested grain was first reported from Hoima, Kiboga and Kyankwanzi districts. There are indications of adverse effects of weather on the opening season and therefore less maize will be expected.

In other regional markets, a similar trend was observed with low price offers between Ugx.600-650/kg. Several farmers claim to have lost money in the previous season due to low demand which registered maize at a stable price. Arua and Kapchorwa registered higher prices of grain.

As more of the first seasonal beans supply got to Busia border produce market, price fluctuations were recorded for the beans varieties delivered. The final week recorded yellow and short Nambale beans demanded at the same price Ugx.(Ksh.121) while long Nambale cost Ugx.(Ksh.114), Wailimu at Ugx. (Ksh82), long mixed beans at Ugx.(Ksh.95) and small mixed beans at Ugx.(Ksh.78).

High demand for beans was registered at Busia Produce Border market throughout the month of June which registered a declining beans price. An estimated 1200-1400MT of assorted beans daily were purchased from the opening week. Volumes purchased at this market declined towards the end of the month to less than 700MT daily. Yellow beans were preferred at Ugx.3516/kg (Ksh.120) while Short Nambale beans cost Ugx.3457/kg (Ksh.118).

The quality of beans supplied in the first season crop 2024 were affected by weather conditions and less quantities are expected. This was observed in the price variations which did not drop as usual during harvest. Similar prices were registered mid-month and close of the month where Yellow beans cost Ugx.3513/kg (Ksh.122), Long Nambale at Ugx.3312/kg (Ksh.115), Wailimu beans at Ugx.2390/kg (Ksh.83) and Small beans at Ugx.2246/kg (Ksh.78). In the twist of events, Short Nambale was demanded most at Ugx. 3744/kg (Ksh.130).

Other commodities demanded at Busia included Cassava at Ugx.660/kg (KSh.23), Millet at Ugx.2390/kg (Ksh.83), Red sorghum at Ugx.1000/kg (KSh.35), White sorghum at Ugx.770/kg (Ksh.27), Groundnuts at Ugx.4895/kg (Ksh.170), Simsim at Ugx.6910/kg (Ksh.240) and Soya beans at Ugx.2360/kg (Ksh.82).

The seasonal supply for beans continued throughout the month of June and Kampala market received more beans from other production locations both in central and western regions. This supply was further redistributed into other regional markets such as the north and eastern regions where a late harvest for beans was registered.

Yellow and Short Nambale beans were preferred at Ugx.3600/kg and were supplied in plenty to Kampala. Other varieties such Large mixed beans (Omusingiriro) cost Ugx.2700/kg while Large Nambale at Ugx.3400/kg wholesale. This supply forced the Tanzanian supply off this market and volumes harvested increased during the month. Declining prices were registered for beans at the close of the month with Yellow and Short Nambale beans reducing to Ugx.3400-3500/kg. Other varieties that were harvested later such as Masavu beans cost Ugx.4000-4200/kg, Green beans at Ugx.3500-3600//kg, Small mixed beans at Ugx.2000-2400/kg and Large Nambale at Ugx.3200/kg wholesale price in Kampala.

During the month of June, notably very low Matooke prices were registered countrywide. Harvesting of Matooke in the western region registered an influx of supply to most major city markets. Prices dropped in Kampala to Ugx.5000-30,000 per bunch depending on size. In the production locations, Matooke purchase price dropped to Ugx.3000-10,000 per bunch. Farmers have lamented about the low price and would prefer to feed it with their cattle. Supply of Matooke from Kapchorwa together with Irish potatoes also started during the month of June. The dry season in several production locations is noted to have sparked off more supply of Matooke.

Plenty of Super rice was reported from Tanzania at averagely Ugx.4000/kg affecting the local Super price lower at Ugx.3500-3800/kg. Cheaper rice was sold in several markets due to mixing of varieties to maximize profit. Kaiso cost Ugx.2300/kg wholesale. Harvesting of Super rice in the eastern region especially Bugisu and Busoga regions started during the month rendering reduced prices of the market.

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Busia regional border post commodity price outlook.

An estimated 1500-1700Mt of sorted maize grain was traded off daily indicating an increased demand at the regional hub. The market reported continuous supply of the old stocked grain from the previously season. Apparently the grain buying has been stable for the past 4 weeks.

Good quality maize was offered at Ugx.849/kg (Ksh.29) while fair quality at Ugx.820/kg (Ksh.28). The least accepted grain quality usually for animal feed cost Ugx.791/kg (Ksh.27) This increment in price and fast trading of maize from Uganda was as a result of declined Tanzanian maize grain supply on the regional market at a slightly high market price.

Declining beans prices were recorded during the same week with less than 500-700Mt of assorted beans variety. Yellow beans highly demanded at this regional market dropped from Ugx.3744/kg (Ksh.130) to Ugx.3516/kg (Ksh.120), Nambale short beans price reduced from Ugx.3600/kg (Ksh.125) to Ugx.3457/kg (Ksh118), Red Wailimu beans from Ugx.2592/kg (Ksh.90) to Ugx.2373/kg (Ksh.81), mixed beans from Kisoro dropped from Ugx. 2851(Ksh.99) to Ugx.2725/kg (Ksh.93). Other commodities demanded by the Kenyan traders at Busia included millet at Ugx.2226/kg (Ksh.76), red sorghum at Ugx.937/kg (Ksh.32), white sorghum at Ugx.791/kg (Ksh.27), soya bean at Ugx.2344/kg (Ksh.80), green grams at Ugx.2490/kg (Ksh.85) and groundnuts at Ugx.5567/kg (Ksh.190)

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Karamoja Commodity Outlook for the month of May.

Regular rainfall spiced with sunny days was received in the majority of Karamoja region during the month of May. Cultivation of staple crops continues with backfilling of crops that did not germinate while others in general are weeding their crops. Cultivation is expected to continue until June. There is an indication of a good crop for most staples if the rains continue into the season. Animal raids from the sanctuary will affect the seasonal crop especially in the districts surrounding Kidepo National Park.

The district of Napak registered declining sorghum prices from Ugx.3000/can to Ugx.2500/can weighing 3.5kgs. Sorghum was reported from within the district produce stores and a bit of supply from Acholi sub-region. Apparently the maize price rose from Ugx.3000/can weighing 3.5kgs to Ugx.3500/can during the course of the month. A decline in price for cassava flour was also registered especially during the close of the month to Ugx.850/kg at wholesale. A number of beans varieties were offered in Napak between Ugx.2000-3500/kg. Posho and rice prices declined slightly. Fresh cassava was in plenty throughout the month of May from within the district and the price per heap also declined to Ugx.1000. Charcoal and firewood prices increased drastically given the restriction on tree cutting and the intensification of cultivation. 

In the livestock market, very low trading activities were reported due to effects of cattle raiding but also the mention of foot and mouth disease within the district. Big bulls were offered at Ugx.1,500,000-1,700,000 while medium size sold at Ugx.900,000-1,200,000. Goats and sheep were reported at a stable price compared to the previous month’s price.

Weeding was reported in most locations of Kotido district and cultivation is expected to continue until June. Several food items were reported from outside the region via the major trade routes of Agago/Pader, Patongo, Mbale, Teso and Kapchorwa. Stable grain prices were reported during the month especially for sorghum and millet. Apparently maize grain price increased gradually to Ugx.2400/jug from Ugx.2100/kg. Newly harvested beans were reported delivered to the town market from Lira and Mbale. K20 beans cost Ugx.4500/kg while Yellow beans at Ugx.5000/kg at retail. Food supply from outside the region was also recorded from Lira, Pader and Mbale-Teso trade routes. Plenty of fresh cassava was supplied onto the local market from Teso sub-region, Abim district and Mbale district. Sweet potatoes were very scarce and a few pieces made a heap usually offered at Ugx.2000. Firewood and charcoal prices registered an increase from Ugx.6000 to Ugx.10,000-15,000 and Ugx.20,000 to 45,000 respectively.

Very low animal trading was registered during the month in Kotido livestock market which is the main livestock market for the entire region. Only 2-3 trucks were loaded out of the market during market days. The long distance travel via Moroto district to check on cattle rustling was noted to be one of the reasons for low trading. 

Maize grain price in Amudat district was reported stable at Ugx.4000/can weighing 3.5kgs. Maize flour price fluctuated between Ugx.2500-2600/kg. Beans prices increased to Ugx.5000-6000/kg at retail. Commodities that recorded price increase included firewood at Ugx.7000/bunch, charcoal at Ugx.30000/bag. Limited supply of fresh commodities such as cassava and potatoes were received in the district markets during the month of May. In the livestock markets, reduction in animal sales and offer price were recorded during the month. More animals were offered for sale in Amudat district. Big bulls cost Ugx.1,200,000 while medium sized bulls cost Ugx.1,000,000. Sheep and goat reported stable price during the month at Ugx.100,000-150,000 per head.

Less production of staple crops was mentioned during the month of May in Abim district. Farmers were also reported weeding. Plenty of fresh cassava was harvested from within the district during May. Very low supply of sweet potatoes were reported from within the district. Matooke and Irish were rarely supplied from Soroti and Mbale. Newly harvested beans were supplied to the district during the closing weeks of the month from Mbale. K20 beans cost Ugx.3500/kg while Yellow beans cost Ugx.4000/kg at retail. Other varieties such as mixed beans were cheaper at Ugx.2000/kg. Sorghum was reported stable at Ugx.1000/kg when compared to April prices. Charcoal prices increased in the course of the month. Very low animal sales were reported during the month of May. Due to cattle travel restrictions, big bulls cost Ugx.1,500,000-Ugx.1,700,000 while goats and sheep cost Ugx.60,000-250,000 per head respectively depending on size. No truckloads of animals were recorded out of the market during the month of May.

More maize grain was available to the market after less purchase was reported for relief. Women stockists in the local stores for the district had more grain which was pushed to the market rendering cheaper maize grain prices during the month of May. Lower maize grain price is expected in the near future (June) as a lot continues to be offered to the market. Maize flour was also rendered cheaper compared to the previous month’s price. Likewise plenty of fresh cassava was delivered from Teso sub-region and no sweet potatoes. Irish and Matooke were reported from Mbale at Ugx.2000/kg and Ugx.25,000-35,000 per bunch respectively. Uniquely, there were no beef prices reported on the market as butchers only offered goats meat prices at Ugx.14,000-15,000/kg. No cattle sales were recorded in the designated markets. Some trading was mentioned on personal basis.

Reduced rainfall was reported during the month of May in Nakapiripirit district compared to the late April rains that were beyond normal rains which led to flooding in some lower parts of the district. Good yields have been speculated for the season if regular rains continue to July especially for sorghum, maize, groundnuts, rice and bananas.

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April Commodity Outlook

There was a large stock pile of maize delivered in the opening week of April in Kampala market. This was due to an increase in the grain price at Ugx.900/kg which forced rural stockists to deliver more maize in order to earn the Ugx.900/kg which was a good price compared to their buying price at the opening of the season in December/January.

In the production locations of Kyankwanzi and Kiboga, maize was offered lowest at Ugx.700/kg. In Masindi it was registered at Ugx.750/kg, however, in Mubende it was slightly higher at Ugx.800/kg given the distance to main markets.

The grain market in Kapchorwa reported maize price gradually increasing because it was planting time/ offseason so traders bought from Mbale at Ugx.800/kg offering at Ugx.900-950/kg. In Gulu, maize was registered at Ugx.700/kg due to large stock piles held by transit traders. The highest grain price at the onset of the month was offered in Arua.

During the second week of April, a reduction in price for maize was reported in Kampala markets resonating the fact that less maize grain was demanded at the regional market. Maize price dropped from Ugx.900/kg to Ugx.800/kg wholesale in Kisenyi and Owino markets due to additional supply of maize from Tanzania via Mutukula border. Traders in the city noted that there was low demand for maize flour.

In West Nile region, maize grain prices were high due to low supply. Maize was delivered from Hoima and Masindi while cassava was received from Soroti. Beans were equally expensive due to the fact that it’s off season. In Lira, maize was reasonably low priced at Ugx.700-800/kg due to large stock piles held by stockists from the previous harvest season while in Kamwenge maize cost Ugx.700/kg and most farmers had sold off at Ugx.500/kg to stockists who claimed to have lost a lot of money in the past season because of reduced market prices.

The maize price stabilized at Ugx.790-800/kg in Kampala during the close of the month, however, traders expected fluctuation of market price due to the fact that a number of them held on to their stock speculating for a higher price before the new maize season opens probably in June/July. More grain was expected on the market from stockists in the following weeks.

During the second week of the month of April, a reduced maize demand from the Kenyan transit traders at Busia was registered. This was due to cheaper maize supply on the same market from neighboring Tanzania. Plenty of maize had been received in the opening week of April and stock piles were held by the stockists at the border market. The volumes purchased daily dropped between 5000-8000MT daily and, likewise, the purchase price declined to Ugx.765/kg (Ksh.30) for good quality maize while mixed quality (least acceptable quality) dropped at Ugx.688/kg(Ksh.27).

The Ugandan traders will most likely reduce the price for stock held because it’s old stock compared to the Tanzanian newly harvested supply. Therefore, the grain price will most likely be stable in other production locations due to less demand from the Kenyan regional market at Busia.

A reduction in demand for Ugandan maize continued to feature at Busia regional market during the close of the month because the market preferred supply from Tanzania which was much better although it registered a higher moisture content level. Several traders held maize in their stores from the previous season at their stalls anticipating to sell at a better price in this market. Only an estimated 900-1200MT of grain daily were traded during the final week at Ugx.834//kg (Ksh.29.5) for good quality grain.  The least acceptable quality was offered at Ugx. 764/kg(Ksh.27) forex-28.3

Newly harvested beans were first delivered in the opening week of April at a higher price from Buhwejju. New Yellow beans cost Ugx.4000-4200/kg while Long Nambale at Ugx.3500/kg. Later, newly harvested beans were also reported from Tanzania. Nambale from Tanzania cost Ugx.3600/kg. The Old stock Yellow beans dropped to Ugx.3100-3200/kg. Short Nambale from Tanzania cost Ugx.3500/kg while Old short Nambale cost Ugx.2800-3000/kg. White beans were also received from Tanzania at Ugx.2800-3000/kg. The Tanzanians also delivered with them good quality cassava chips at Ugx.750-800/kg, White Groundnuts at Ugx.3000-3400/kg and Red beauty groundnuts at Ugx.4000-4500/kg wholesale and super rice at Ugx.4000-4600/kg depending on grade.

Beans were reported scarce in Masindi costing Ugx.4000-5000/kg retail price at the onset of the month while in other markets such as Kiboga at Ugx.4500/kg retail. In Mubende, beans were cheaper due to a large stock held from the previous season at Ugx.3000/kg wholesale. Kapchorwa offered Nyayo beans at Ugx.3500/kg and Red beans at Ugx.3000/kg delivered from Busia. Mbale reported old stock beans at Ugx.4000/kg.

Mid-month, more supply of the first seasonal beans harvest from Buhwejju continued to reach the market in Kampala. Later an additional supply of newly harvested beans from Tanzania rendering the old stocked beans from the previous season cheaper.

Old stock long Nambale was offered at Ugx.2500-2800/kg while the newly harvested from Buhweju and Tanzania cost Ugx.3500-3600/kg wholesale. Newly harvested Yellow short beans were only delivered from Tanzania at a cost of Ugx.3800-4000/kg while old stock yellow beans registered a declined price of Ugx.3000/kg. Newly harvested Short Nambale were offered at the highest price of Ugx.4000-4500/kg from both Tanzania and Buhweju. Old stock short Nambale cost Ugx.3500-3600/kg. The Old stock beans have been referred to other rural markets at the close of the month of April where supply was low because it’s off season. It’s speculated that the first beans harvest might come in as early as May due to the initial seasonal rains.

Likewise, the Tanzanian beans supply reached the Kenyan market at the regional border market of Busia affecting the rate of demand for Ugandan beans during the second week. Only an estimated 200MT of assorted varieties of beans daily were purchased at Busia from Uganda registering very low demand. New Rosecoco beans from Buhweju were preferred and at a higher price of Ugx.3570/kg (Ksh. 140). Yellow and Nambale Old stock beans cost Ugx.2932/kg (Ksh.115), Wailimu beans and Nambale Long beans cost Ugx.1836/kg (Ksh.72) and Ugx.2346/kg (Ksh.92) respectively.

Other commodities demanded by the Kenyan traders at Busia market included millet at Ugx.1938/kg (Ksh.76), Red sorghum at Ugx.969/kg (Ksh.38), White sorghum at Ugx.867/kg (Ksh.34). Dry cassava chips at Ugx.600/kg (Ksh.23.5), Groundnuts at Ugx.4972/kg (Ksh.195) and Simsim at Ugx.5610/kg (Ksh.220).

Similarly, low demand was registered for Ugandan beans at the end of April because of supply of beans from Ethiopia to the Kenyan market at Ksh.100/kg. This supply was received at Busia post market mixed with the old stock from Uganda and was offered to “Teso” sub-region traders who demanded for it. An estimated 48-50MT of assorted beans daily were traded from Kenya to Uganda in the final two weeks of April,2024. Yellow beans cost Ugx.3,254/kg (Ksh.115) while Nambaale cost Ugx. 2631/kg(Ksh.93), Wailimu beans cost Ugx. 2065/kg (Ksh.73), Rosecoco from Ethiopia at Ugx.4103/kg (Ksh.145).

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March Commodity Outlook

Grain trading at the border post market of Busia began with a low pace at the beginning of March as Kenyans winded up their short harvest leading to a less demand for Ugandan maize. Good quality maize was offered at Ugx.734/kg (Ksh.27) and a reduced volume of 800-900Mt daily were traded.

Mid-month, the Kenyan harvest reduced giving way to an increasing demand for Ugandan maize at Busia post and an increasing price of Ugx.849/kg (Ksh.29.5). The volume increased to 1400MT. Trading in cereals at this post increased drastically when very high demand for grain was registered in the third week. This demand met less supply further increasing the price for maize grain to Ugx.979/kg (Ksh.34). towards the closing week of the month, the price fluctuated slightly lower, however, volumes traded hit 2900-3000MT. At this time, a slowdown in purchasing by the Kenyan traders took place leading to a stockpile of a lot of maize at the border post and a resultant decline in price to Ugx.921/kg (Ksh.32) due delayed payments from the cereal boards.

In Kampala, low maize prices were reflected at the beginning of March and maize grain was offered at Ugx.630/kg due to low demand. Fluctuating prices were registered in the week that followed to Ugx.730/kg as more trading emerged at the regional border post of Busia which influenced the Kampala price higher. Mid-week, the grain market price shot to Ugx.900/kg. In the closing week, the maize price in Kampala declined slightly to Ugx.850/kg.

Very low demand, likewise, was registered for beans at Busia at the beginning of March mainly due to scarcity. Most traders at the border post had turned to beans trading due to a better demand when compared to maize. Nambale beans were preferred then at Ugx.3672/kg (Ksh.135) while Yellow beans at Ugx.3536/kg (Ksh.130). Wailimu beans were much cheaper at Ugx.2178/kg (Ksh.80) and mixed beans at Ugx.1849/kg (Ksh.68). More beans trading was identified in Northern Uganda in Gulu where transit traders delivered produce to avoid stockpiles at Busia.

Reduced bean prices were recorded mid-month due to low demand at Busia border post from the Kenyan traders. Yellow beans price declined to Ugx.3513/kg (Ksh.122/kg) which was the same offer price for: Army green, short Nambale and Rosecoco beans. At this time of the month, only 200-300Mt of assorted beans were traded daily. Other cheaper varieties such as large Nambale, Wailimu and mixed beans cost Ugx.2851/kg, Ugx.2073/kg, Ugx.1814/kg (Ksh.99,72 and 63/kg} respectively.

Gradual price increase was registered in the following week. Yellow beans increased to Ugx.3770/kg (Ksh.130), Nambale to Ugx.3480/kg (Ksh.120), Wailimu to Ugx.2465/kg (Ksh.85) and Mixed beans at Ugx.2175/kg (Ksh.75). This price increment excited the supply to 900-1200MT per day during the week. However, beans prices further fluctuated in the final week at the border post market to : Yellow Ugx.3393/kg(Ksh.117), Nambale Ugx.2755/kg (Ksh.95), Wailimu Ugx.2117/kg (Ksh.73) and Mixed beans Ugx.1885/kg (Ksh.65).

The situation in Kampala was different with a steady supply of beans making it cheaper than other markets at Ugx.3000-3200/kg at wholesale in the first two opening weeks. A slight increment in the wholesale price for beans was recorded at Ugx.3200-3500/kg mid-month. At the close of the month, less beans supply was recorded from the rural stockists, however, stable prices were recorded in Kampala’s markets. Northern region markets registered higher beans prices at Ugx.3500-3800/kg wholesale and supply was recorded from Hoima Masindi and Busia markets throughout the month.

The market was dominated with rice from Tanzania supplied to most major markets. In Kampala, two qualities were majorly supplied i,e, extra and regular qualities. The better quality was offered at Ugx.4200/kg wholesale. Grade Two rice from Tanzania was offered cheaper in Kampala at Ugx.3600-4000/kg. Super from Mbale was offered expensively at a higher price of Ugx.4500/kg at wholesale. However, due to impurities and stones, the product wasn’t preferred.

Good quality millet was received from Mbarara and was offered higher in Kampala at Ugx.2300/kg wholesale. Other varieties were also delivered from Lira, Soroti and Gulu at a cheaper price of Ugx.2000-2100/kg wholesale price. Small quantities of millet were offered at a higher price in Kapchorwa and Mubende.

Onions and tomatoes were extremely expensive especially in the closing week of the month which also doubled as the Easter festive week. A sack full of onions increased to Ugx.900,000-1,000,000 while a Ugandan box ply of tomatoes cost Ugx.450,000. Kenyan tomatoes were supplied to Kampala-Kisenyi market in smaller plys at half the price the Ugandan ply.

Farmgain Africa

February Commodity Report.

The produce market opened with high demand at the Busia border market. Plenty of maize was supplied to this particular market given the fact that the second season had started in late January. An estimated 2900MT were demanded on a daily by several transit traders who turned up at this market. Good quality maize was offered at Ksh.35/kg (Ugx.800) while the least acceptable quality was demanded at Ksh.31/kg (Ugx.728). More trading was reported by the second week as increased stocking by the Cereal boards and other buyers beyond Kenya intensified their purchases. An estimated 3000-3200MT of grain were purchased daily at this time at the same price of Ksh.35/kg (Ugx.861). The least acceptable quality usually for animal feeds cost Ksh.31/kg (Ugx.762).

In the final week of the month, reduced grain trading was reported at Busia and volumes traded reduced from 3000-3400MT to only 800-900MT daily. The fall in demand was a result of a mini harvest season in Meru/Kamba land where some maize harvesting is noted to have started. This harvest is speculated to be short, however, it left Busia Produce market in slow business. This Meru harvest also affected the grain price in Busia from Ksh.35-Ksh.26/kg (Ugx.861-Ugx.707). The maize purchased for animal feed dropped to Ksh.24/kg (Ugx.652). Prices are expected to remain low until the Kenya harvest supply runs low.

There was a slow down at the opening of the month of trading for beans since most traders had changed business from beans to grain business at Busia. Low demand for beans was reported in the opening week with only an estimated 600-800MT of assorted beans were traded daily. Yellow beans were preferred at Ksh.137/kg (Ugx.3219) while Short Nambale cost Ksh.125-130/kg (Ugx.2937-3055), Wailimu at Ksh.82/kg (Ugx.1927), Mixed beans at Ksh.79/kg (Ugx.1856), Army Green beans at Ksh.130/kg (Ugx.3055) and Long Nambale at Ksh.108-115/kg (Ugx.2538-2702).

There was an increase in price by the second week of February for beans. Apparently, the volumes demanded declined to an estimated 300-400MT daily of assorted beans. The transit traders demanded less beans and more maize because they had been buying more beans at the start of the year. Yellow beans increased to Ugx.136/kg (Ugx.3345), Short Nambale at Ksh.135/kg (Ugx.3321), Long Nambale at Ksh.137/kg (Ugx.3370), Wailimu at Ksh.85/kg (Ugx.2091), Mixed beans at Ksh.80/kg (Ugx.1968) and Rosecoco beans at Ksh.125/kg (Ugx.3075).

At the close of the month, the demand for beans at Busia increased from northern Uganda markets. Yellow beans were offered at Ksh.130/kg (Ugx.3536), Nambale short at Ksh.135/kg (Ugx.3672), Long Nambale at Ksh.113/kg (Ugx.3073), Wailimu at Ksh.79/kg (Ugx.2148) and Rosecoco which was scarce at Ksh.130/kg (Ugx.3536). 

Other commodities demanded at Busia in the opening week included Millet at Ksh.82/kg (Ugx.1927), Soya beans at Ksh.98/kg (Ugx.2303), Sorghum at Ksh.41-42/kg (Ugx.963-983), Green grams at Ksh.98/kg (Ugx.2303), Cassava chips at Ksh.41/kg (Ugx.963), Groundnuts at KSh.240/kg (Ugx.5640) and Simsim at Ksh.255/kg (Ugx.5992).

Millet price declined to Ksh.75/kg (Ugx.2040) at the end of the month while Sorghum to Ksh.37-38/kg (Ugx.1006-1033), Cassava chips dropped to Ksh.27/kg ) Ugx.734).

Plenty of maize grain was delivered to Kampala in the opening week of February at Ugx.680-700/kg. This supply forced the maize flour price low to Ugx.1400/kg. Meanwhile there was a slight increase in price in Kampala by the second week to Ugx.720/kg. Apparently, maize four price also increased to Ugx.1500/kg. Supply was registered from maize production locations especially in the central and western regions such as Kiboga and Kyankwanzi where maize cost Ugx.600/kg. A bumper harvest was also reported in Sembambule. Maize was also offered at Ugx.600/kg in Mubende.

Mid-month, the price fluctuated between Ugx.700-750/kg. Plenty of maize grain was equally reported supplied to this market. More production locations such Masindi, Kibaale, Kamwenge also supplied to Kampala. However, some Rwandan transit traders continued purchasing good quality grain in Kamwenge. In the final week, the price for maize further declined Ugx.650-700/kg in Kisenyi –Kampala market. The maize flour price likewise declined to Ugx.1300/kg at wholesale mainly due to low purchase at Busia. Most transit traders delivering maize to Busia dropped it off at Kampala to reduce their losses in transportation when Busia offered it at Ugx707/kg.

An assortment of beans were received in Kampala including Long Nambale at Ugx.2700-2800/kg, Short Nambale at Ugx.3400-3500/kg, Rosecoco at Ugx.2800-3200/kg, Yellow beans at Ugx.2900-3500/kg, White beans at Ugx.2800-3000/kg, Green beans at Ugx.3500-3600/kg and Mixed beans at Ugx.2700-3000/kg big size while small size beans at Ugx.1800-2000/kg.

Only Short Nambale beans registered an increase in price to Ugx.3500-3600/kg at wholesale level mid-month. Conversely, Yellow beans decreased in price to Ugx.3000-3200/kg. Other beans varieties registered stable prices. In the final week, stable prices were recorded in Kampala. Farmgain Africa.

January Commodity Report.

The 2nd harvest season for maize opened late during the month of January and the climax was speculated in Mid-month. Some production locations had earlier reported harvesting. Unusual this year, supply was mentioned first from Hoima, Kiboga and Kyankwanzi delivered to Kampala. In other major markets like Busia, harvesting was reported first from the northern and Busoga region.

Plenty was delivered to Kampala market in the opening week of January dropping the grain price from Ugx.950/kg to Ugx.880/kg. More maize grain supply was reported a week later further declining the grain price to Ugx.780/kg. The quality was not good due to the rainfall registered in December, however, more supply with better quality reached Kampala at a lower market price of Ugx.750/kg mid-month. Stable grain prices were maintained in Kampala market in the closing week of January   at Ugx.750/kg wholesale as millers struggled to discount themselves to gain better margins on maize flour sales. The maize flour price in Kampala declined from Ugx.1700/kg at wholesale to Ugx.1500/kg at the close of the month.

Meanwhile at the regional border market of Busia, the month of January opened with huge demand for maize grain registering 2000Mt crossing daily to Kenya formally. The second week registered maize at a slightly lower market price of Ksh.35/kg (Ugx.826) from Ksh.38/kg (Ugx.896) in the opening week. A corresponding high supply of 2700MT of grain was purchased and delivered daily.

Maize was registered from the eastern region such as Bunyoli, Tororo, Paliisa and Busoga. At around the same time, Tanzanian and Rwandan traders bought maize in different locations including the northern region delivering it via Busia border, Katuna and Mutukula borders. The Tanzanian purchase, however, declined gradually.

Mid-month, the volume and demand for maize at the regional post market increased to an estimated 2700MT daily and brisk business was reported at Busia. A decline in purchase price was reported as better quality maize was delivered from different production locations including the western region. The quality improved reporting a lower moisture content level for the maize grain delivered to Busia. The buying price, however, declined slightly to Ksh.34/kg (Ugx.782).

In the final week, a stable market price was registered for maize grain at Ksh.34/kg (Ugx.782). High volumes of grain were delivered from all production locations such as Mubende, Bunyoli, Busoga, Kiboga, Masindi and Kyankwanzi. An estimated 2500-3000MT of grain was traded daily at this border post during the closing weeks. Given the high volumes and expected maize bumper harvest, the maize price will not increase as usual and could drop to Ksh.30/kg (Ugx.690). The rainfall received in January has certainly affected the quality of maize delivered to market. Traders from Rwanda continued to purchase maize in the western region via Katuna at Ugx.870/kg for newly harvested maize and Ugx.1030/kg for old stocked maize at the start of the month. Tanzanian traders purchased maize at Ugx.980/kg at Mutukula in the opening week of January, however, demand and price dropped to Ugx.600/kg at the close of the month.

Plenty of beans were supplied to Kampala in the month of January. Supply was recorded from all production locations and Yellow beans specifically from Tanzania. Yellow beans from the central region were supplied fresh and preferred at Ugx.3600/kg wholesale price at a higher price compared to Yellow beans from Tanzania at Ugx.3300/kg wholesale. Long Nambale was offered at Ugx.2800/kg while Short Nambale at Ugx.3200/kg in the opening week of January.

Stable prices were recorded in the second week for Kampala. Several varieties were delivered to this market by transit traders who stocked beans during the month of December at the climax of the 2nd harvest season. At the close of the month reducing beans prices were observed for some bean varieties especially for Yellow beans.

Less than 1200MT were demanded by the Kenyan transit traders in the opening weeks of January. Yellow and Army Green beans were preferred at Ksh.140/kg (Ugx.3220) and Ksh.143/kg (Ugx.3289) respectively. Short Nambale and Rosecoco beans cost Ksh.130/kg (Ugx.2990), Long Nambale at Ksh.113/kg (Ugx.2599), Mixed beans at Ksh.78/kg (Ugx.1794) and Wailimu beans at Ksh.85/kg (Ugx.1955). Most of the supply was registered from the western region specifically Masindi, Kazo, Mubende, Isingiro and Ibanda.

Mid-month, the demand for beans at Busia declined to an estimated 900MT daily as most transit traders changed business to maize grain purchase due to better margins. Yellow beans price and Short Nambale stabilized at Ksh.139/kg(Ugx.3197) and 130/kg (Ugx.2990) respectively. Long Nambale cost Ksh.115/kg (Ugx.2645) while Wailimu stabilized at Ksh.85/kg (Ugx.1955).

The Kenyan traders at Busia border post market also demanded for millet at Ksh.84/kg (Ugx.1932), Sorghum at Ksh.42-44/kg (Ugx.966-1012), Dry Cassava chips at Ksh.58/kg (Ugx.1334), Simsim at Ksh.260/kg (Ugx.5980), Groundnuts at Ksh.245/kg (Ugx.5635), Green grams at Ksh.90-95/kg (Ugx.2070-2185) and Soya beans at Ksh.90/kg (Ugx.2070).

Farmgain Africa.

May Commodity Market Report

During the month of May the maize grain price in Kampala was registered stable. Maize was offered at Ugx.800/kg for 3 weeks. The presence of other staples on the market such as matooke from the western region, fresh cassava and sweet potatoes from central region is one of the effects of a stable grain price.

Secondly, the market in the central region received new maize from neighboring Tanzania which also slowed down and stabilized the grain price in Kampala. Thirdly low demand for Ugandan maize at the regional produce hub at Busia presented more supply to the grain market in Kampala. The maize grain price in Kampala should have increased faster during this time of the year (May), however, given the above facts, stockists held onto their stocks longer than usual and/or may have to sell off before the new seasonal harvest in June/July. By the second week, stockists released their old stock maize in preparation for the first season harvest in June.

The maize flour price in Kampala was reported fluctuating between Ugx.1,500/kg and Ugx.1,600/kg depending on the quantity of grain, grade and the price of substitutes like rice, matooke, cassava and millet. The volume of maize grain stocks in the country side greatly declined, however, some stocks were still hoarded by traders country wide to try to recover losses created by low market prices.

In the final week of the month, a reduced maize grain price was recorded at Ugx.780-800/kg due to less demand for maize in Kampala markets. Maize flour prices, likewise, declined to Ugx.450/kg in Kisenyi grain market. Other maize flour substitutes registered an increase in supply such Matooke and fresh cassava.

The first beans seasonal harvest supply for 2024 kicked off during the month of May from Buhweju/Kasese at Ugx.4400-4500/kg wholesale delivered in Kampala. This supply was highly moist and expensive. At around the same time, supply of beans was reported from Tanzania at a slightly cheaper price. Yellow beans cost Ugx.3900-4100/kg while Nambale at Ugx.4000-4100/kg wholesale depending on supply of the day. The Tanzanian traders also delivered with them good quality cassava chips at Ugx.500-600/kg, cassava flour at Ugx.1000/kg, Ground nuts at Ugx.4000/kg and maize grain. Throughout the second week, beans were offered at Ugx.4000-5000/kg wholesale.  Supply of beans increased during the third week leading to a decline in price. Long nambale declined to Ugx.3300-3500/kg, Short nambale and Kahuura to Ugx.3800-4000/kg. White beans were offered at Ugx.3500/kg while mixed beans were offered at Ugx.2300-2600/kg.

At the close of the month, the markets in Kampala reported declining prices for beans due to increased supply for beans. Long Nambale declined to Ugx.3200/kg at wholesale. Yellow beans cost Ugx.3500-3600/kg, mixed beans at Ugx.2000-2200//kg and Short Nambale at Ugx.3500-3600/kg wholesale.

The market in Kampala also recorded increased matooke supply from the western region which resulted into declining prices throughout the month of May. Bunches of Matooke were offered at Ugx10,000-35,000 depending on size of bunch and location.

Increased demand for maize was registered in the opening week of May at Busia produce hub following torrential rains received across Kenya. Good quality maize was purchased at Ugx.892/kg (Ksh.31/kg) while fair quality at Ugx.864/kg (Ksh.30/kg). The least acceptable quality was bought at Ugx.806/kg (Ksh.28/kg). Prices continued to decline during the first weekend as volumes demanded increased to 1400MT daily. Plenty of maize was delivered to this particular market during the same weekend from numerous rural locations.

Plenty of old stock beans were delivered to Busia Produce Hub at the beginning of the month, however, this supply met a low demand from Kenya because of newly harvested beans supply from Ethiopia via northern Kenya border. This Ethiopian supply was mixed with the old stock beans on the Ugandan side and delivered to high demand areas such as Teso and Lango regions at a fair price. By the second week, newly harvested beans from Hoima and Kiboga were delivered to the Busia border post market indicating the first seasonal harvest supply.

Yellow beans, Wailimu, K20 Nambale and red beans were particularly supplied in plenty

Volumes of beans supplied were recorded at only 125MT daily up from 40MT before the harvest.

By the third week, the first seasonal harvest had taken offfor all bean varieties, soya beans and sorghum.

Other commodities that were demanded by the Kenyan market included millet at Ugx.2476/kg (Ksh.86/kg), Red sorghum at Ugx.1094/kg (Ksh.38/kg) and White sorghum to Ugx.806/kg ( Ksh.28/kg). Groundnuts were purchase at Ugx.4752/kg (Ksh.195/kg), Simsim at Ugx.7200/kg (Ksh.250/kg) and green grams at Ugx.2016/kg (Ksh.70/kg).

In the northern region, Sudanese traders were reported purchasing maize and beans at Ugx.800/kg and beans at Ugx.4000/kg. K20 beans from Tanzania cost Ugx.4000/kg while Yellow beans cost Ugx.5000/kg. Mbale and Masindi offered Yellow beans at the same price of Ugx.4000/kg.

At the close of the month, yellow beans and other varieties were delivered from Kyankwanzi, Kiboga, Kyegegwa, Mubende and Kyenjojo at reducing prices.

Farmgain Africa

Farmgain Commodity market report- November,2020

During the month of November the maize price in Kampala increased gradually from Ugx.650/kg to Ugx850/kg at the close of the month. The majority of grain was delivered from Kiboga, Kyankwanzi, Mubende, Masindi and Kibaale. Maize was offered at Ugx.500-550/kg in the above production locations during November. Speculators noted that there was less demand for maize because of lack of school activities but also increased production to due abundant rainfall and the lockdown period as most people concentrated in their gardens.

Prices were very similar to those of 2017 when maize was offered at Ugx.650-720/kg. Maize was delivered from the same production areas then where it was offered at Ugx.400-550/kg. Similarly, maize was offered at Ugx.600-660/kg in 2018 November. This time it was delivered mainly from Masindi, Mubende and Soroti.

The reverse was true last year when maize was offered at Ugx.1250-1280/kg during the same period then (November 2019). It was, however, noted that the new maize was delivered in December that year which meant that there was a delayed seasonal harvest. Maize then was mainly delivered from Iganga, Masindi, Soroti and Kapchorwa. In all the above trading periods between 2017 and 2020, Kampala registered the highest offer price for quality maize between Ugx.700-1350/kg at wholesale. This year, supply was mainly registered from Kiboga, Kibaale, Mubende, Kyankwanzi and Kyegegwa.

Millers reduced their maize grain intake after realizing less demand. The price of maize flour in Kampala fluctuated between Ugx.60,000-65000 per sack weighing 50kgs at wholesale. Other grains have equally not fetched the usual margins apart from Millet which was harvested in northern Uganda. The millet price was slowly increasing from Ugx.1000/kg in major markets of Northern Uganda.

The maize price is expected to drop to an unusual price when the second season of the year starts. Speculators are predicting very low market price similar to 2018 as demonstrated above.

The maize price stabilized high at Ugx.800/kg towards the end of the month and several traders were reported stocking for other agencies around Kisenyi market. Most of the grain was purchased by the millers. The quality continued to be affected by rain received then. Most of the harvest has been sold off at a cheaper price compared to last year’s price at the same time. Stockists are believed to have considerable stock that may collide with the newly harvested grain.

In the northern region, maize cost Ugx.600-700/kg in Gulu while in Lira it was much cheaper at Ugx.500-600/kg. Kenyan traders were reported buying maize and beans in Lira. Newly harvested maize was reported in Mbale at Ugx.650/kg and in Tororo at Ugx.600/kg.

Maize was bought at Mutukula border post heading to Tanzania in the opening weeks of the month expensively at Ugx.1250/kg, however, the demand for it declined because of the multiple taxation levied on it.

During the conclusion of the month, the grain buying price at Mutukula declined to Ugx.750-800/kg. Several transit traders consolidated maize and beans in the western region heading to this border market. In Rakai, maize was bought at Ugx.650-700/kg. Maize was registered at a low price in such production areas as Masindi at Ugx.600-700/kg, Kiboga-Kyankwanzi at Ugx.550/kg, Mubende at Ugx.650-670/kg and Soroti at Ugx.600/kg.

A number of transit traders purchased high quality maize in Kamwenge and the surrounding districts heading to Bunagana border destined for DRC Congo at Ugx.770-800/kg. Others bought mixed beans and maize at Ugx.1850/kg and Ugx.1250/kg respectively destined for Rwanda via the same border point. The traders, however, noted that the taxes levied on this produce was high between border points.

Maize at Busia border market was bought at Ksh.22/kg in the opening week of the month. It stabilized at Ksh.22/kg mid-month. It rose to Ksh.24/kg by the third week (Ugx.770} and settled at Ksh.23.5/kg at the closed of the month. Approximately 2,500 Mt were exported via Busia weekly in November.  

There were reports of high demand for produce at border points especially Busia. Huge volumes of assorted beans were recorded throughout the month estimated at 12,800MT weekly in November. Several traders were reported on the market demanding for especially beans.

There is an indication of increased productivity for most staples in this market compared to last year. At this time last year, the border market received maize back from Kenya into Uganda from the Kitale harvest at a price lower than Uganda’s. At the same time, this border market received millet, then, from Ethiopia. When compared, the current prices are lower than the previous year.

Good quality maize was purchased at Ksh.24/kg (Ugx.770) while Fair quality at Ksh.23.7/kg (Ugx.760). The least acceptable quality usually for animal feeds cost Ksh.23.5/kg (Ugx.754) Variation in price during the week was due to fluctuation in the forex rate. Trading went on throughout the closing week of November.

In the beans sector, low prices were reflected throughout the month in most markets at wholesale. Slow trading was equally reported in some markets. In Owino and Kafumbe-Mukasa markets, Sugar and Yellow beans were preferred at Ugx.3300/kg and Ugx2700/kg respectively. Other bean varieties were offered cheaper. Short Nambale (Nabe) cost Ugx.2100-2000/kg at wholesale while long Nambale at Ugx.1900-1800/kg. Rosecoco (Kahura) beans were offered at Ugx.2100/kg while mixed beans at Ugx.1100-1050/kg. White beans went for Ugx.2000-2100/kg. Green beans from Mbarara were offered at Ugx.2100-2200/kg.

Purchasing of beans increased at the regional border produce market of Busia on a weekly basis. An estimated volume of 1500Mt was bought daily in the opening weeks. Yellow beans cost Ksh.89-90/kg (Ugx.2, 963-2,997). Other varieties demanded included Sugar beans at Ksh.84/kg (2797), Nambale beans at Ksh.57-58/kg (Ugx.1,898-1931), Wailimu beans at Ksh.50/kg (Ugx.1,665) and Mixed beans at Ksh.47/kg (Ugx.1,565). The demand for beans increased mid-month to 1400MT-2500MT.

Several varieties were delivered to Busia border market in the closing week of November from a number of production locations. Rosecoco beans were delivered from Kyegegwa, Kyenjojo, Kagadi and Kibaale at Ksh.47/kg (Ugx.1508). Green beans were delivered from Mbarara at a cost of Ksh.55/kg (Ugx.1765). Yellow beans cost Ksh.78/kg (Ugx.2503) while Sugar beans were offered at Ksh.85/kg (Uggx.2728). Mixed beans and Red Wailimu beans cost Ksh.35/kg (Ugx.1123) and Ksh.52/kg (Ugx.1670) respectively. Nambaale beans cost Ksh.78/kg (Ugx.2503). The intake of assorted beans into this market increased by the day.

In the Coffee sector, FAQ coffee was bought at Ugx.3800/kg in the production locations. The quality is expected to improve when the rains subsides. Better yields were expected due to normal to above normal rainfall distribution in most parts of the country.

Low offer price for Arabic coffee is expected this year as a result of increased production amidst low price experienced throughout last year which is considered an “Off-year”.

The Irish potato harvest opened in Mbale-Wanale and Kapchorwa. A 100kg bag of sorted large tubers was offered at Ugx.80,000-85000 in Wanale. Medium sized tubers cost cheaper at Ugx.80.000 for a 100kg bag weighing 100kgs. In Kapchorwa, a 100kg bag of Irish potatoes was offered at Ugx. 80,000. In the western region, Kabale was going through a minor harvesting season and offered Irish potatoes at Ugx.150,000-160,000 per sack weighing 120kgs. The major season is around the corner and should be on in December/January.

Farmgain Africa

Karamoja November Commodity Market Report

The region was affected by cattle rustling where the Jie community was said to be mainly behind this ruthless act after acquiring ammunitions from Southern Sudan. This has affected the livestock market which was recently opened in the course of the year. Several livestock markets were still grappling with SOPs when the habit of rustling intensified. The warriors were noted using trucks to transport stolen cattle further northwards through Kotido to Kaabong before trading them off to neighboring Sudanese traders.

There has been a fluctuation of livestock prices in the region due to cattle rustling. There was a general increase in the commodity prices after the entire region receiving above normal rainfall. Some extension officers noted that the rain pattern was very similar to the southern bi-model rain pattern compared to the mono rain pattern that is received in the region. This occurrence happened for the second year running took place and the farming communities were not able to utilize the rains because they were scattered in the third and four quarter of the year and were also above normal rains.  This implies that there could be a food security issue early next year.

During the month of November, the weather pattern changed and very few locations received rainfall especially towards the end of the month compared to the rains received during October. The climate was one described by dry weather, dusty and windy.

In Nabilatuk, livestock was offered cheaper because of less trading as a result of the insecurity to do with cattle rustling. The price of beef was also affected lower. In the commodity market, commodity prices were highly priced where maize cost Ugx.3,000-3,500/can weighing 3.7kgs. Likewise, sorghum harvest was completed and most of the sorghum was traded or stored. The market in Nabilatuk received beans, fresh cassava, matooke, Irish potatoes from Sebei.

Cattle prices in Abim were cheaper during the month of November because of the same reasons that affect the entire region. Trades from outside the region bought cattle from Kanawatt and Regina markets in Kotido and loaded cattle from Abim on their way to Mbale and Soroti. Big bulls cost Ugx.800,000-Ugx.900,000. In the commodity market, maize was cheaper at Ugx.600/kg while sorghum that was harvested during the month of November was offered at Ugx.400/kg. The sorghum price is expected to drop further because the harvest has started. Rice was received from Soroti and Lira and retailed at Ugx.4000/kg. Plenty of sweet potatoes were supplied to Abim market from Kotido retailing at Ugx.500/heap. Irish potatoes and Matooke were supplied from Sebei and Mbale at Ugx.15,000 per bunch and Ugx.1200/kg respectively.

In Nakapiripirit livestock market prices were higher and a big bull was offered at Ugx.1,000,000. Traders were registered from Sebei and Soroti. The livestock trading in Nakapiripirit was also affected by raiding. Maize and sorghum traded at a lower price of Ugx.2500/can delivered from within the district. There were indications of less food availability compared to the previous month.

 Kotido was most affected by cattle rustling and has pushed the livestock prices higher. Illegal cattle sales were going on before the clearance for most markets due to both Foot and Mouth disease and failed observation of Covid-19 SOPs. Large bulls cost Ugx.1,000,000 whereas goats cost between Ugx.80,000-Ugx.120,000. Very few animals were offered for sale which discouraged farmers to move their cattle from place to place in search for markets. Very stable prices for commodities were offered for sale in Kotido because the markets resumed later after failing to maintain SOPs.

Maize was offered cheaper in Amudat at Ugx.600/kg. Other commodities offered cheaper included Irish potatoes at Ugx.1200/kg and firewood at Ugx.3000/bundle. Similarly, livestock prices were registered higher at Ugx.1,500,000 a big bull while medium sized bulls cost Ugx.800,000-900,000. Beef and goats meat cost Ugx.10,000.

The maize and sorghum harvest that was concluded in Kaabong registered a poor yield. Maize was offered expensively at Ugx.3000/can during scarce supply, it increased by Ugx.500 due to scarce supply. Millet price increased from Ugx.4000/can, to Ugx.7000/can. Beans were received from Mbale retailing at Ugx.4000/kg.

Similarly, Napak had its challenges of cattle raiding and livestock prices were equally high where a big bull was offered at Ugx.1, 200,000. There was less supply of cattle. The Jie community raided Napak and made off with several heads of cattle. The maize and sorghum prices registered an increase during the month of November where a can increased from Ugx.3000 to Ugx.3500-4000. There was an increase in the price for Irish potatoes which increased to Ugx.2000/kg at retail. Some fresh items such as sweet potatoes and fresh cassava were delivered from Teso region. Beans were constant at averagely Ugx.3500/kg.

Cereal prices were also registered increasing during the month of November in Moroto and there might not be enough food for some communities when the dry season comes during the first quarter of the coming year. Harvesting of crops came to an end and prices have since increased gradually where maize was offered at Ugx.1100/kg at the conclusion of the month. It was offered at averagely Ugx.3000/can during the course of the month. The district also received some maize from Soroti at a lower price. Sorghum in Moroto was very scarce and cost Ugx.3000/can. However, some traders delivered sorghum at Ugx.800/kg from Soroti. They also delivered rice at Ugx.2800/kg from Soroti. Apparently, cassava flour price declined and most of it was supplied from Teso region. Sweet potatoes were delivered to Moroto from Kumi, Soroti, Amuria and Mbale. A heap was offered between Ugx.1000-2000. Irish potatoes were very expensive in Moroto and cost Ugx.2500/kg.

Kalenga was equally affected by running battles between raiders and the security. The security has done a lot to eliminate cattle rustling in the region. However, since most of the raiders were armed, the habit continues especially towards the northern districts and beyond. There was little livestock trading registered in the district rendering prices high. Very few animals were offered for sale to avoid getting involved in theft cases. Produce prices were equally high at Ugx.3000/can in most markets.

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Second seasonal harvest on

Major markets registered newly harvested maize countrywide. In Kisenyi-Owino dry grain market, maize was offered at two quality levels viz old stock grain at Ugx.800/kg and newly harvested grain at Ugx.750/kg. Good quality maize flour was offered at Ugx.68,000-70,000 per 50kg sack.

The beans harvest started much earlier and a considerable volume of assorted bean varieties have been sold in several markets. In Kampala, the beans price dropped a few weeks ago. It continued to decline to currently Ugx.1800-2100/kg for Short Nambale beans. Long Nambale (Nabe4) was offered at Ugx.1850/kg while Mixed beans were cheapest at only Ugx.1000/kg at wholesale. Yellow beans cost Ugx.2000-2100/kg and sugar beans at Ugx.3400-3500/kg at wholesale. Rosecoco (Kahura) beans were scarce and cost Ugx.1900-2000/kg while white and green beans cost Ugx.2000/kg and 1500-1800/kg respectively. Kanyebwa beans cost Ugx.2000-2200/kg in Kampala’s major markets.

Newly harvested maize in Tororo was offered at Ugx.600/kg while old stock at Ugx.650/kg. In Gulu it was offered at Ugx.700/kg wholesale. Soya beans, millet, groundnuts, rice, sorghum and beans were all being harvested in Gulu and the northern region at large. Similarly commodities such as beans, millet, rice, simsim,g/nuts and soya beans were being harvested in Lira. Maize cost Ugx,500/kg in Lira.

From the central production locations, maize was ferried from Kyankwanzi/Kiboga at Ugx,580/kg while from Masindi maize was purchased at Ugx.600/kg. A number of traders from Kampala purchased maize from Masindi at that market price. Similarly, newly harvested maize was offered at Ugx.600/kg in Tororo while the old stock maize was offered at Ugx.650/kg. Most of this maize grain was delivered from Budaama area. Mbale and Kapchorwa markets had the maize price slightly high at Ugx.750/kg.

The cross border produce market in Busia had an estimated 300MT traded daily. Good quality maize grain was offered at Ksh.23.5/kg while Fair quality at Ksh.23/kg. Yellow beans were sold at Ksh.75/kg while Nambale at Ksh.56/kg. Red Wailimu and Mixed beans were offered at Ksh.52/kg and Ksh.36/kg respectively.

The demand for Mixed beans destined for Kigali via Mutukula continued to be stocked by transit traders purchasing beans from Kamwenge and other districts at Ugx.1250/kg.

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